Baked Meatballs with Roasted Potatoes and Mushrooms

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This delicious recipe combines hearty meatballs made from minced meat, roasted potatoes, and a creamy mushroom topping. It’s a perfect comfort meal, simple to prepare, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its savory richness and satisfying textures.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Cuisine: Comfort food, European

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

2.2 lb (1 kg) minced meat
Salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste

Dried garlic, to taste
Paprika, to taste
2 oz (60 g) breadcrumbs

1 hen’s egg
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Roasted Potatoes:

1.3 lb (600 g) potatoes

Olive oil, for drizzling
Salt, to taste
Dried garlic, to taste

Paprika, to taste
1.4 oz (40 g) breadcrumbs

For the Sauce and Toppings:

Green onions, chopped

Salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 red onion, finely chopped

3.5 oz (100 g) sour cream
2.8 oz (80 g) mayonnaise
1 garlic clove, minced

Dill, to taste
10.6 oz (300 g) mushrooms, sliced
7 oz (200 g) mozzarella cheese, grated

2 tomatoes, sliced

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

Begin by peeling and chopping the potatoes into small cubes. Place them in a large bowl.
Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt, dried garlic, paprika, and breadcrumbs. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly.

Preheat the oven to 190°C (374°F) and spread the seasoned potatoes in a baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy.

2. Make the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, salt, black pepper, dried garlic, paprika, breadcrumbs, and one egg. Stir until well mixed.
Add the roasted vegetables (onion, green onions, and any other roasted veggies) into the minced meat mixture and stir again to combine everything evenly.

3. Form the Meatballs:

With your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, making them about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking tray. Use your finger or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in each meatball.
Brush with a little vegetable oil to ensure they cook evenly and have a crispy exterior.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and dill. Season with salt and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

5. Cook the Mushrooms:

In a skillet, heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they turn golden brown and release their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.

6. Bake the Meatballs:

While the potatoes are roasting, place the tray with meatballs into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.

7. Assemble the Dish:

Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and set aside.
Spoon the prepared creamy sauce over the top of each meatball.

Place the cooked mushrooms on top of the meatballs, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese and slices of fresh tomatoes.
Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve:

Remove from the oven and let the dish cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.

Serve with the roasted potatoes on the side, or mix them into the dish for an all-in-one meal.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings):

Calories: 400-500 kcal
Protein: 25-30g

Fat: 25-30g
Carbohydrates: 35-40g
Fiber: 4-6g

Sugar: 5g

The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe:

This recipe is a variation of a traditional comfort food that’s popular across many cultures. Meatballs are a staple in numerous cuisines, from Italian to Swedish, and are often served with a variety of accompaniments like pasta, potatoes, or vegetables. The addition of roasted potatoes and mushrooms gives this dish a unique twist, combining hearty flavors with a creamy, savory sauce. This dish is popular because it’s both comforting and filling, with layers of flavor that are sure to satisfy. The use of ingredients like paprika and garlic adds a rich depth to the meatballs, making them a flavorful centerpiece for any meal.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of tender meatballs, roasted potatoes, and cheesy, creamy sauce makes this dish incredibly filling.
Flavorful: The blend of spices, fresh vegetables, and rich cheese elevates the dish and adds a delicious complexity of flavors.
Easy to Make: Despite its hearty nature, this recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal family meal that’s sure to please everyone.

Health Benefits:

High Protein: The ground beef in the meatballs provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Rich in Vitamins and Fiber: The addition of vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes increases the nutritional value of the dish, providing important vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Calcium-Rich: The mozzarella cheese adds a boost of calcium, which is vital for bone health.
Antioxidants from Mushrooms: Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and provide immune-boosting properties, making this dish a wholesome option.

Cooking Tips:

Make Meatballs Uniform in Size: For even cooking, make sure the meatballs are of similar size. This helps them cook evenly in the oven.

Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the mayonnaise and sour cream ratio in the sauce to suit your taste. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Use a Non-Stick Skillet for Mushrooms: A non-stick skillet will prevent the mushrooms from sticking and ensure they cook evenly.

Variations to Try:

Add Spices: You can try adding cumin, oregano, or even chili flakes to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the meatballs with vegetable patties or falafel and use dairy-free cheese for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion:

This Baked Meatballs with Roasted Potatoes and Mushrooms is a dish that brings together rich flavors, comfort, and ease of preparation. The combination of tender meatballs, crispy potatoes, and savory mushroom sauce topped with melted mozzarella makes this an indulgent yet nutritious meal. Whether served for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the meatballs? Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative to beef in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and roast the potatoes in advance. Simply assemble and bake the dish when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, both the meatballs and the roasted potatoes can be frozen separately. Just thaw them and bake when needed.
Can I make this dish without cheese? Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meatball mixture or as toppings.
Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, you can use any variety of potatoes, such as Yukon gold or red potatoes, depending on your preference.
How can I make this dish spicier? Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture or sprinkle on top before baking for a spicy kick.

Can I substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt? Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream.
What can I serve this dish with? This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of baking? While the recipe calls for baking, you can also cook the meatballs in a skillet and then finish the dish by adding the toppings and cooking briefly to melt the cheese.