Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 recipe Italian meatballs (including sauce)
Mashed Potatoes
- 1 recipe mashed potatoes
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes and Meatballs: Prepare mashed potatoes and Italian meatballs including sauce according to your preferred recipes or as specified in the original guides referenced.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow it to reach the desired temperature for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. A Le Creuset Braiser or similar dish works well.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom of the casserole dish. Arrange the prepared meatballs evenly on top of the mashed potatoes layer.
- Bake Initially: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, allowing the ingredients to heat through.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatballs. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and starts to brown slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm for a delicious comforting meal.
Notes
- Use homemade or store-bought meatballs according to your preference; just be sure they are fully cooked before assembling the casserole.
- Mashed potatoes can be made from scratch or using quality prepared mashed potatoes for convenience.
- For a richer flavor, consider mixing some parmesan cheese into the meatballs or adding herbs to the mashed potatoes.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated; bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like provolone or cheddar to vary flavor.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
