Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese: Creamy, Cheesy, and Oven-Baked to Perfection

Juicy beef meatballs layered with tender potatoes, rich béchamel sauce, and melty mozzarella—this dish is a comforting classic

Introduction: A Cozy Oven Bake That Feeds the Soul

This Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese recipe is a celebration of layered comfort. It starts with juicy, seasoned beef meatballs, nestled between slices of boiled russet potatoes. A silky béchamel sauce adds richness, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese brings it all together in a golden, bubbly finish.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping a make-ahead meal, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this dish delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s explore what makes this dish so hearty and delicious:

Base:

• Russet potatoes (3, peeled and boiled)
  Provide a tender, starchy layer that holds everything together.

Tip: Slice evenly for consistent baking.

Meatballs:

• Ground beef (1½ lbs)
  Rich and flavorful—choose lean or regular based on preference.
• White onion (1, cubed)
  Adds sweetness and texture.
• Dried paprika (pinch)
  Adds warmth and color.
• Dried parsley (pinch)
  Adds herbaceous brightness.
• Salt and black pepper
  Essential for seasoning.
• Nutmeg (optional)
  Adds subtle depth.

Optional: Add garlic or breadcrumbs for extra flavor and binding.

Cheese:

• Shredded mozzarella (2 cups)
  Melts beautifully and adds creamy richness.

Optional: Mix with Parmesan or Gruyère for added flavor.

Béchamel Sauce:

• Butter (5 tbsp)
  Adds richness and smooth texture.
• All-purpose flour (4 tbsp)
  Thickens the sauce.
• Milk (4 cups)
  Creates a creamy base—heat before adding.
• Salt (2 tsp), nutmeg (½ tsp)
  Season and enhance the flavor.

Tip: Stir constantly to avoid lumps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Béchamel Sauce

In a frying pan:

• Melt butter over medium heat.
• Stir in flour and cook for 6 minutes, whisking constantly.

In a separate saucepan:

• Heat milk until just below boiling.

Add milk to flour mixture 1 cup at a time, whisking until smooth.

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, stirring constantly.

Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Tip: Sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs

In a bowl:

• Mix ground beef, onion, paprika, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Form into small meatballs.

Optional: Chill for 15 minutes to help them hold shape.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a round baking dish:

• Line the bottom and sides with potato slices.

Place meatballs evenly across the dish.

Add potato slices between each meatball.

Pour béchamel sauce over the top.

Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.

Optional: Add a layer of cheese between meatballs and sauce for extra gooeyness.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, until:

• Cheese is golden
• Sauce is bubbling

Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Cozy weekends
• Holiday gatherings
• Meal prep

Serve with:

• Green salad
• Garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables

Presentation Tip: Serve in individual ramekins for a plated look.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Garlic Herb

Add minced garlic and fresh thyme to the meatballs.

Chicken Version

Use ground chicken and swap mozzarella for provolone.

Vegetarian

Use lentil or mushroom meatballs and plant-based béchamel.

Four Cheese

Mix mozzarella, Parmesan, cheddar, and fontina.

Tomato Twist

Add a layer of marinara sauce under the béchamel.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance.
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze baked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in oven.

Tip: Reheat covered to preserve moisture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 6)

• Calories: ~480
• Protein: ~28g
• Carbohydrates: ~22g
• Fat: ~30g
• Sugar: ~4g
• Sodium: ~600mg
• Fiber: ~2g

This dish is:

• Comfort food approved
• Crowd-pleasing
• High-protein
• Perfect for leftovers

Final Thoughts

This Meatballs with Potatoes and Cheese bake is more than just dinner—it’s a layered celebration of flavor, texture, and comfort. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or enjoying a reheated slice, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.