There’s something deeply satisfying about a meal that brings together hearty, savory meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes under a warm blanket of melted cheese. This Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake is a true comfort food classic, perfect for weeknights when you want something delicious and satisfying without too much fuss. It’s a dish that combines convenience and flavor, making use of simple ingredients you may already have on hand.
Whether you’re using homemade meatballs or a store-bought version, the rich brown gravy ties everything together beautifully. The mashed potatoes act as a creamy, buttery topping, while the melted cheese adds just the right touch of indulgence. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a cozy Sunday dinner, even on the busiest of weekdays.
This bake is also incredibly versatile. You can tailor it to your taste or use what’s in your fridge. It works great with leftover mashed potatoes and is a smart way to turn a few meatballs into a full, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—adults and kids alike won’t be able to resist a second helping.
Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a make-ahead freezer meal, this Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake is pure, cheesy comfort in every bite. Serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for a balanced and complete meal.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb frozen or homemade meatballs, fully cooked
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (freshly made or leftovers)
- 1 ½ cups brown gravy (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish and spread the cooked meatballs evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the brown gravy over the meatballs, stirring gently to coat them well.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meatball mixture, spreading them evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the mashed potatoes.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the dish is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or mix in some hot sauce with the gravy.
- Veggie Boost: Layer in sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach between the meatballs and potatoes.
- Different Cheese: Swap mozzarella or cheddar with pepper jack, provolone, or a cheese blend for a twist.
- Swedish Style: Use Swedish meatballs and creamy mushroom gravy for a Scandinavian-inspired version.
Tips:
- If using frozen meatballs, make sure they are fully heated through before assembling the bake.
- Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, but warm them slightly for easier spreading.
- For a crispier topping, broil the dish for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
- Use a deep enough dish to prevent overflow while baking, especially if adding extra gravy or toppings.
