Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish and spread the cooked meatballs evenly across the bottom.
3. Pour the brown gravy over the meatballs, stirring gently to coat them well.
4. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meatball mixture, spreading them evenly to cover the entire surface.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the mashed potatoes.
6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the dish is bubbling.
7. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.

Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or mix in some hot sauce with the gravy.
• Veggie Boost: Layer in sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach between the meatballs and potatoes.
• Different Cheese: Swap mozzarella or cheddar with pepper jack, provolone, or a cheese blend for a twist.
• Swedish Style: Use Swedish meatballs and creamy mushroom gravy for a Scandinavian-inspired version.

Tips:

• If using frozen meatballs, make sure they are fully heated through before assembling the bake.
• Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, but warm them slightly for easier spreading.
• For a crispier topping, broil the dish for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
• This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
• Use a deep enough dish to prevent overflow while baking, especially if adding extra gravy or toppings.