Potato meatball bake

Here’s a hearty Potato Meatball Bake recipe that serves 4–6 people.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef (or beef and lamb mix)
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano or mixed herbs
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

For the Potatoes

• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup (240 ml) beef or chicken stock
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping (Optional but Recommended)

• 1–1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Equipment

• 9 × 13 inch (23 × 33 cm) baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Slice potatoes into rounds about 5–7 mm (¼ inch) thick.
3. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Arrange in a single layer in the baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

1. In a bowl, combine:
   • Ground beef
   • Onion
   • Garlic
   • Breadcrumbs
   • Egg
   • Salt
   • Pepper
   • Paprika
   • Oregano
   • Parsley
2. Mix gently until combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball (16–20 meatballs).

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs (Optional)

1. Heat a little oil in a skillet.
2. Brown the meatballs for 2–3 minutes per side.
3. They don’t need to be fully cooked; they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together:
   • Tomato paste
   • Tomato sauce
   • Stock
   • Oregano
   • Paprika
   • Salt and pepper
2. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble

1. Place meatballs evenly over the potatoes.
2. Pour the sauce over everything.
3. Cover tightly with foil.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake covered for 40 minutes.
2. Remove foil and check that potatoes are becoming tender.
3. Sprinkle cheese over the top if using.
4. Bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, until:
   • Potatoes are soft
   • Meatballs are cooked through
   • Cheese is golden and bubbly

Step 7: Rest and Serve

1. Let the bake rest for 5–10 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Serve with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.

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Tips for the Best Potato Meatball Bake

• Use Yukon Gold or other waxy potatoes for a creamy texture.
• Add sliced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini between the potatoes for extra vegetables.
• For a creamier version, replace half the stock with heavy cream.
• A mixture of mozzarella and Parmesan gives a richer cheese topping.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 55–60 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4–6 people