ADVERTISEMENT
### Instructions:
1. **Make the Meatballs**:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
– Mix everything together until just combined (don’t overmix).
– Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter).
– Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). They don’t need to be fully cooked, as they will bake in the casserole later.
– Set the browned meatballs aside.
2. **Prepare the Mashed Potatoes**:
– Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
– Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes until smooth.
– For extra creaminess, stir in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
3. **Assemble the Casserole**:
– Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
– Carefully place the browned meatballs on top of the marinara sauce.
– Spoon a generous amount of mashed potatoes over the meatballs, spreading them evenly to cover the meatballs completely.
– Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the mashed potatoes.
– Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
4. **Bake**:
– Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
– If you like your cheese a little golden, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. **Serve**:
– Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
– Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Enjoy your comforting and delicious Stuffed Mashed Potato Meatball Casserole! It’s a satisfying dish that combines hearty meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory marinara sauce in one perfect meal.
