There’s something about mashed potatoes and meatballs that feels like home. This Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake takes that classic comfort combo and turns it into a simple, hearty casserole layered with creamy potatoes, rich brown gravy, and gooey cheese.
Whether you use homemade meatballs or frozen ones, the result is a golden, bubbling dish that brings everyone to the table fast.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Meatball and Mashed Potato
This bake is cozy, filling, and made with pantry-friendly staples—perfect for nights when you need comfort in a casserole dish.
- Uses simple ingredients with big flavor payoff
- Great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes
- Family-approved dinner in under 40 minutes
- Customizable with sauces, cheeses, or add-ins
- Perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory
- Reheats beautifully for meal prep or next-day lunches
This one reminds me of Sundays growing up in Texas—mom would have mashed potatoes ready for her truck menu, and I’d sneak spoonfuls before the meatballs even hit the gravy. That same cozy energy inspired this recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need much to make this layered comfort dish—just your favorite meatballs, creamy mash, and plenty of cheese.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb frozen or homemade meatballs, cooked – beef, chicken, or turkey all work
- 4 cups mashed potatoes – warm and creamy, leftovers are perfect
- 1 cup brown gravy – homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese – melts beautifully over the top
- Salt and pepper, to taste – balances flavor
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Swap brown gravy for Creamy Garlic Chicken Gravy for a lighter twist
- Use Monterey Jack for a creamier melt
- Add peas or corn between layers for texture
- Sprinkle crispy fried onions for crunch
- Use turkey meatballs for a leaner version
Step-by-Step Instructions
This dish layers in minutes and bakes into something rich and cozy.
- Preheat oven: Set to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish. (A 9×9 pan works great.)
- Prepare mashed potatoes: Warm them slightly for easier spreading. (Add a splash of milk if thick.)
- Layer the base: Spread half the mashed potatoes across the bottom of the dish.
- Add meatballs: Arrange cooked meatballs evenly over the potato layer. (Space them so each serving gets a few.)
- Add gravy: Pour brown gravy over the top to coat meatballs and soak into potatoes.
- Top with potatoes: Spread the remaining mashed potatoes over the meatballs and smooth evenly.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bake uncovered: Cook for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. (Broil 2 minutes for a crisp top.)
- Rest before serving: Let cool 5 minutes so layers set.
Quick Reminders:
- Always bake uncovered for melted, golden cheese
- Don’t overheat mashed potatoes before layering—they’ll dry out
- Add extra gravy after baking if you love it saucy
- Broiling makes the cheese irresistibly bubbly
Expert Tips for Success
This recipe thrives on balance—creamy mashed potatoes meet savory meatballs and rich gravy.
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melt
- Warm the gravy before layering for even baking
- Try adding a layer of sautéed onions or mushrooms for depth
- For a complete meal, serve with Hearty Cabbage Beef Bake on the side
- Add garlic powder or herbs to mashed potatoes for flavor boost
- Freeze unbaked for up to 2 months, then bake straight from freezer
This bake is as forgiving as it is delicious—perfect for busy cooks who still crave homemade flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole family-style with a few comforting sides.
- Pair with green beans or buttered corn
- Add a crisp garden salad for freshness
- Serve with Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls to soak up the gravy
- Drizzle with extra gravy or top with crispy bacon bits
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday leftovers
A warm, cheesy slice of this bake feels like a hug in every bite—simple, familiar, and full of heart.
Storing and Reheating
This dish keeps its flavor and texture beautifully when stored right.
How to Store It
- Store leftovers in airtight containers up to 4 days
- Freeze portions up to 2 months
- Let cool completely before sealing
- Store extra gravy separately if you plan to reheat later
How to Reheat It
- Oven: 350°F for 15–20 minutes covered with foil
- Microwave: 1–2 minutes per serving, stirring halfway
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet with lid, adding a splash of milk or gravy
It reheats creamy and comforting—just like the day you made it.
Nutrition (per serving, 1/6 of bake)
Calories: 390 kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Unsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 820mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes! Prepare according to package directions, then layer as written.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely—assemble the bake, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
What type of meatballs work best?
Beef adds richness, but turkey or chicken meatballs make a great lighter version.
Final Thoughts
This Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake brings together everything comforting about a homemade meal. It’s simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying—a reminder that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated.
- Layers of creamy potatoes, savory meatballs, and melted cheese
- Easy prep with everyday ingredients
- Perfect for families and meal prep
From my Texas kitchen to yours—dig in, pour extra gravy, and enjoy a taste of warmth on any night.
Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Warm mashed potatoes slightly for easier spreading. Add a splash of milk if needed.
- Spread half of the mashed potatoes across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Arrange cooked meatballs evenly over the potato layer.
- Pour brown gravy over the meatballs to coat evenly.
- Spread the remaining mashed potatoes on top of the meatballs and smooth evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2 minutes for a crisp top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Nutrition
Notes
- This dish layers creamy mashed potatoes with savory meatballs, rich gravy, and melty cheese for a classic, cozy meal.
- Great for using up leftovers or frozen staples.
- For added texture, try layering in vegetables like corn or peas.
- You can make it ahead and bake when ready.
