1. Boil the Potatoes
- Place sliced potatoes in salted water.
- Boil for 8–10 minutes until just tender (not falling apart). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meatballs
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and shape into small meatballs.
- Pan-fry or bake meatballs until lightly browned and cooked through.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom.
- Add meatballs evenly across the layer.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Repeat with another layer of potatoes, meatballs, and cheese.
- Pour cream over the top (if using) for a gratin-style richness.
4. Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color.
Tips for the Best Bake
- Use Gruyère or Emmental cheese for an authentic French flavor.
- Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth.
- Slice potatoes evenly so they cook uniformly.
- For a lighter version, skip the cream and just use cheese.
Final Thoughts
This French-Inspired Baked Potato, Meatball & Cheese Gratin is comfort food at its finest — rich, satisfying, and irresistibly cheesy. Every bite brings together tender potatoes, juicy meatballs, and melty golden cheese for a dish that feels both rustic and elegant.
It’s the kind of recipe that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite, perfect for cozy dinners and special gatherings alike.