In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatballs tough.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter.
Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook them in batches, turning them to brown on all sides. This should take about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, toss the potato slices or cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are well-coated with the seasoning.
Transfer the seasoned potatoes to a baking dish or sheet pan, spreading them out in an even layer. Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden and tender, stirring halfway through for even cooking
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and arrange the browned meatballs on top of the potatoes. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the meatballs and potatoes.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatballs are fully cooked through.
Step 4: Serv
Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, for added freshness and color.
Serve the Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese as a hearty main dish, and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors!
Tips for Perfect Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese:
- Potato Variety: You can use any type of potatoes, but russet potatoes or Yukon Golds work best for roasting. They’re starchy and become crispy on the outside while soft on the inside.
- Meatball Variations: Feel free to swap out the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or lamb. You can also add chopped herbs or a little bit of grated Parmesan directly into the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
- One-Pan Option: If you prefer, you can combine the potatoes and meatballs in the same pan and bake everything together for the full cooking time. Just be sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Vegetables: For a more complete meal, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
This Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of crispy potatoes, juicy meatballs, and melted cheese makes it a dish everyone will love. Plus, it’s customizable—you can use your favorite meat, cheese, and seasonings to make it your own. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this dish is a guaranteed hit!