Potato casserole with leeks, meatballs and Gorgonzola: hearty and irresistible!

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### **Instructions for Making Potato Casserole with Leeks, Meatballs, and Gorgonzola**

#### **Step 1: Make the Meatballs**
1. In a large bowl, combine the **ground meat**, **breadcrumbs**, **Parmesan cheese**, **egg**, **minced garlic**, and **oregano** (if using). Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
2. Mix the ingredients until everything is well incorporated.
3. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Heat **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for **6-8 minutes**, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

#### **Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes and Leeks**
1. Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)** and butter a **9×13-inch baking dish**.
2. In the same skillet used for the meatballs, add **olive oil** and sauté the **leeks** over medium heat until softened, about **5 minutes**. Season with a pinch of **salt** and **pepper**. Set aside.
3. **Layer the potatoes** in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange them evenly to create a solid base layer.

#### **Step 3: Assemble the Casserole**
1. On top of the potatoes, spread the **sautéed leeks** evenly.
2. **Place the meatballs** on top of the leeks, spreading them out evenly in the dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the **heavy cream** and **milk**, and season with **salt** and **pepper**.
4. Pour the cream mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring the potatoes and meatballs are covered.
5. Crumble the **Gorgonzola cheese** and sprinkle it over the top of the casserole.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for **30 minutes**. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional **15-20 minutes**, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

#### **Step 4: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh **thyme** or your favorite herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
3. Serve hot and enjoy the layers of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness!

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### **Why This Casserole Is So Irresistible**

This **Potato Casserole with Leeks, Meatballs, and Gorgonzola** is the epitome of comfort food. The potatoes, with their soft, creamy texture, serve as the perfect base for the rich, savory meatballs. The leeks bring a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor that balances out the richness of the meatballs and cheese. And then there’s the **Gorgonzola**, which melts into the casserole, providing a creamy, tangy contrast that elevates the entire dish.

It’s the kind of casserole that you can serve at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or just a weeknight meal when you want something comforting and satisfying. It’s hearty, flavorful, and the kind of dish that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

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### **Variations and Customizations**

While this potato casserole is amazing as is, you can make a few tweaks to suit your taste:

– **Cheese Substitutes**: If you’re not a fan of Gorgonzola, try using **blue cheese** or a **mild cheddar** for a more traditional flavor.
– **Vegetable Additions**: Add more veggies like **spinach**, **mushrooms**, or even **zucchini** to make it even heartier.
– **Spices**: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of **red pepper flakes** or **smoked paprika** to the cream sauce.
– **Make It Lighter**: Use **lean turkey** for the meatballs, and swap the heavy cream for **half-and-half** or a non-dairy cream for a lighter version.

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### **Why It’s the Perfect Comfort Food**

This casserole combines everything we love about comfort food – creamy potatoes, savory meatballs, and rich cheese – into one dish that feels like a warm hug in a baking dish. It’s indulgent yet balanced, and can easily feed a crowd. Plus, it’s the type of dish that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

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### **Conclusion**

**Potato Casserole with Leeks, Meatballs, and Gorgonzola** is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, creamy flavors with hearty ingredients that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving it to family or indulging in it for yourself, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a meal that’s as hearty and comforting as it is delicious! Bon appétit! 🍽️