Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• Potatoes: 700 g (25 oz)
• Water: 2 l (68 pt)
• Butter: 60 g (2.1 oz)
• Salt: 4 g (0.1 oz)
• Black pepper: 3 g (0.1 oz)
• Fresh dill (chopped): 10 g (0.4 oz)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• Tomato sauce: 100 g (3.5 oz)
• Olive oil: 15 ml (0.5 fl oz)
• Oregano: 4 g (0.1 oz)
• Salt: 2 g (0.1 oz)

For the Meatballs:

• Minced meat (beef or pork, or a mix): 1 kg (2 lb)
• Onion (finely chopped): 1 pc
• Egg: 1 pc
• Bread crumbs: 50 g (1.8 oz)
• Salt: 5 g (0.2 oz)
• Black pepper: 3 g (0.1 oz)
• Sweet paprika: 5 g (0.2 oz)
• Garlic powder: 5 g (0.2 oz)
• Butter: 20 g (0.7 oz)
• Vegetable oil: 20 ml (0.7 fl oz)
• Cheese (cut into small cubes): 150 g (5.3 oz)
• Fresh dill (chopped): 15 g (0.5 oz)

Steps to Make Cheesy Meatball-Stuffed Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks.
2. In a large pot, bring the 2 liters of water to a boil. Add the potatoes and a pinch of salt. Boil for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in the chopped dill for added flavor. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce, oregano, and salt. Stir well to combine.
2. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, finely chopped onion, egg, bread crumbs, salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until the mixture is uniform.
2. Take a small amount of the meat mixture and form it into a ball. Press a cube of cheese into the center and seal it completely with the meat mixture, forming a meatball. Repeat until all the meat and cheese are used.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat the butter and vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the meatballs and cook for 7-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a greased baking dish, spread half of the mashed potatoes as an even layer.
3. Place the cooked meatballs on top of the mashed potatoes.
4. Spread the remaining mashed potatoes over the meatballs, covering them completely.
5. Pour the tomato sauce over the top and spread it evenly.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the top is slightly golden and bubbling.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Prep Time

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time

• 40 minutes

Total Time

• 1 hour 10 minutes

Calories

• Approximately 430 kcal per serving

Servings

• Serves 6-8

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory meatballs, and tangy tomato sauce creates a symphony of flavors and textures that appeal to all ages. It’s a dish rooted in classic comfort food traditions yet versatile enough to be tailored to individual preferences. Whether served at a family dinner or a festive gathering, it brings people together, evoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia.

Moreover, this dish is an excellent way to use common pantry staples like potatoes, minced meat, and cheese to create something truly special. It’s a perfect representation of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ~430 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   • Absolutely! You can substitute beef or pork with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option.
2. What type of cheese works best for stuffing the meatballs?
   • Mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda are excellent options as they melt beautifully and add a gooey texture to the meatballs.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   • Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Meatball-Stuffed Mashed Potatoes

• Use starchy potatoes: Varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold work best for creamy mashed potatoes.
• Don’t over-soak the meatball mixture: Add bread crumbs gradually to achieve a firm consistency that holds its shape during cooking.
• Bake with foil for a softer top: If you prefer a softer layer of mashed potatoes, cover the dish with foil during the first 10 minutes of baking.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Conclusion

Cheesy Meatball-Stuffed Mashed Potatoes with Tomato Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort and flavor. This dish takes the humble ingredients of mashed potatoes and meatballs and turns them into something extraordinary. The creamy, buttery potatoes combined with cheesy, flavorful meatballs and tangy tomato sauce make it a dish that’s impossible to resist.

Its timeless appeal lies in its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to bring people together. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply to treat yourself, this dish promises to deliver warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen—a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.