Layered Potatoes and Meatballs Casserole

#### **Instructions:**

**1. Prepare the Meatballs (if making homemade):**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
– Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through. Once done, set them aside.

**2. Prepare the Potatoes:**
– Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandolin slicer for even slices.
– In a greased casserole dish, layer the sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping each layer. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper between the layers.

**3. Prepare the Sauce:**
– In a small bowl, mix the heavy cream (or milk) with the beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
– Pour the cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes.

**4. Assemble the Casserole:**
– Once the potatoes are layered and the sauce is poured over them, add the cooked meatballs on top of the potatoes. Spread them evenly over the surface.
– Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese (and cheddar if desired) for a gooey, cheesy topping.

**5. Bake the Casserole:**
– Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. This will allow the potatoes to cook and soften.
– After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

**6. Serve:**
– Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the layers to set and make it easier to slice and serve.
– Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.

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### **Serving Suggestions for Layered Potatoes and Meatballs Casserole**

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few sides to make it even more satisfying:

– **Garlic Bread**: Soft, warm garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce and adding a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.
– **Green Salad**: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the casserole.
– **Steamed Vegetables**: Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots to add a nutritious element to the meal.
– **Pickled Vegetables**: A side of pickles or pickled onions can offer a tangy contrast to the creamy richness of the casserole.

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### **Why This Recipe Is So Special**

**1. Comfort Food at Its Best**
Layered Potatoes and Meatballs Casserole is the definition of comfort food. It combines tender, creamy potatoes with juicy, savory meatballs and a cheesy topping that makes every bite feel indulgent and satisfying.

**2. Easy to Make Ahead**
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s perfect for meal prepping or preparing for a busy day when you don’t have much time to cook. Simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

**3. Ideal for Feeding a Crowd**
This dish is perfect for gatherings, family meals, or potlucks. It’s filling, flavorful, and can easily be doubled for a larger crowd. With its simple ingredients and generous portions, Layered Potatoes and Meatballs Casserole is sure to be a hit at any event.

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### **Conclusion**

**Layered Potatoes and Meatballs Casserole** is a classic comfort food dish that brings together tender potatoes, savory meatballs, and rich, melty cheese for a satisfying meal the whole family will love. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dish for weeknight dinners or for feeding a crowd. The layers of creamy potatoes and juicy meatballs make each bite irresistible, and the cheesy topping adds a touch of indulgence that everyone will enjoy.

Next time you’re craving something hearty and delicious, give this casserole a try. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!