Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a satisfying, indulgent dish that combines savory meatballs, melted cheese, and creamy mashed potatoes, look no further than Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese. This hearty comfort food recipe brings together the best of both worlds: tender, cheesy meatballs wrapped in a blanket of mashed potatoes, all coated in a crispy breadcrumb shell. It’s a dish that promises to be a hit at any meal, from weeknight dinners to special occasions and family gatherings.
The appeal of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. The crunchy exterior of the potato ball contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy meatball filling inside, while the mashed potatoes add richness and flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese will surely satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.
Ingredients for Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese
This recipe features basic ingredients that, when combined, create an incredibly delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need to make Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 25 g parsley, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- 500 g ground meat (you can use beef, pork, or a combination of both)
- 1 egg
- 100 g Parmesan cheese, grated (about 1/2 cup)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 slice of bread, crumbled
- 150 g diced cheese (Cheddar, mozzarella, or your preferred cheese)
For the Potatoes:
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and chopped (about 2 pounds)
- Salt, to taste
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped into small pieces (optional, but adds amazing flavor)
For the Coating:
- Flour, for dusting
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Panko breadcrumbs, for coating (or regular breadcrumbs if preferred)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Filling
The key to great meatballs is the filling, and in this recipe, the stuffing of cheese inside the meatballs is what makes them extra special. Begin by finely chopping the shallot and parsley, and add them to a large mixing bowl. Add the ground meat, egg, Parmesan cheese, and crumbled bread into the bowl as well. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.
Use your hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients until the mixture is well-combined. Once mixed, take small portions of the meat mixture and flatten them slightly in the palm of your hand. Place a small cube of diced cheese (Cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese you like) in the center of each flattened meat portion. Carefully fold the meat around the cheese, ensuring the cheese is completely encased inside. Roll the meatball mixture between your hands to form a tight, round meatball. Repeat this process until all the meatballs are formed, making sure each one has a good chunk of cheese in the middle.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
While preparing the meatballs, peel and chop the potatoes into evenly sized pieces. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring the pot to a boil. Allow the potatoes to cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Fry the Bacon
While the potatoes are boiling, chop the bacon into small pieces and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the cooked bacon from the pan and set it aside to drain on paper towels. The crispy bacon will add an extra layer of flavor to the mashed potatoes, making the dish even more indulgent.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cooked and soft, drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt for seasoning and mix in the crispy bacon bits. Stir the mixture until the bacon is evenly distributed throughout the mashed potatoes.
Step 5: Assemble the Potato Balls
Now, it’s time to assemble the potato balls. Take small portions of the mashed potato mixture and roll them into balls using your hands. Gently flatten each ball slightly and place a cheese-stuffed meatball in the center. Carefully fold the mashed potatoes around the meatball, making sure it is completely enclosed. Once the meatball is fully covered, gently roll the entire potato ball between your hands to ensure it is sealed.
Step 6: Coat the Potato Balls
Next, prepare the coating for the potato balls. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. First, roll each potato ball in flour, making sure it is lightly coated. Then, dip it in the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated in the egg wash. Finally, roll the ball in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere to the surface.
Step 7: Fry the Potato Balls
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil or olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping in a small piece of breadcrumb—if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully place the coated potato balls into the pan, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the potato balls for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the potato balls from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese are golden and crispy, transfer them to a serving dish. These potato balls are best served hot, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, garlic aioli, sour cream, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. They make a great appetizer, a hearty side dish, or even a main course when paired with a simple green salad.
Why You’ll Love Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese
Flavor-Packed in Every Bite
Each bite of these potato balls is packed with a mouthwatering combination of flavors. The meatballs are juicy and tender, with gooey melted cheese inside. The crispy potato exterior adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior. The addition of crispy bacon in the mashed potatoes adds a smoky richness that elevates the flavor to new heights.
Comforting and Filling
This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory meatballs, and melted cheese makes for a filling and satisfying meal. The bacon adds an extra layer of indulgence, making each bite even more irresistible.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. While this version uses beef or pork for the meatballs, you can easily swap in ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. You can also experiment with different cheeses for the meatball stuffing, such as Swiss, Gruyère, or even a blue cheese for a bolder flavor. Add fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the meatballs for an aromatic twist.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. The potato balls can be made in advance, stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and then reheated in the oven or on the stove. You can even freeze the potato balls before frying them and cook them from frozen whenever you’re ready for a quick and delicious meal.
Conclusion
Potatoes with Meatballs and Cheese is a hearty, comforting dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. The tender, cheesy meatballs and creamy mashed potatoes, all encased in a crispy breadcrumb coating, make this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, potluck, or special occasion, it’s sure to impress.