Craving a hearty, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for juicy meatballs nestled in a creamy bed of fluffy mashed potatoes is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or a simple, satisfying meal for one. Forget takeout – homemade happiness is just a few simple steps away!
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Making the Meatballs:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Shape the Meatballs: Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, until nicely browned. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning. Set aside.
Making the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra creamy mashed potatoes, you can use an electric mixer.
Combining the Dish:
- Simmer the Meatballs (Optional): For extra flavorful meatballs, you can add a cup of your favorite tomato sauce to the skillet after browning the meatballs. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the meatballs to absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Spoon the mashed potatoes onto plates and top with the delicious meatballs. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a little kick.
- Cheese please: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese into the mashed potatoes for an extra cheesy treat.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad for a balanced and healthy meal.
- Leftovers: These meatballs and mashed potatoes reheat beautifully, making them a great option for meal prepping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This recipe offers a simple yet satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the warmth of this classic comfort food! Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed your homemade meatballs and mashed potatoes!