Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Meatballs and Potatoes dish is a simple yet satisfying meal that combines two of everyone’s favorite comfort foods: juicy meatballs and crispy potatoes. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. The seasonings used in both the meatballs and the potatoes bring out great flavors that are sure to make this dish a household favorite. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your dietary preferences!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Potatoes:
2 lbs baby potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, quartered
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), egg, garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Shape the meat mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In another bowl, toss the quartered potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
Arrange the potatoes on the same baking sheet around the meatballs.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the potatoes are golden and crispy on the edges.
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Meat options: You can use ground chicken instead of beef or turkey for a different flavor.
Vegetarian alternative: For a meatless version, substitute the meatballs with lentil or chickpea-based meatball recipes.
Potato alternatives: Sweet potatoes can be used instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to either the meatball mix or the potato seasoning for a little kick.
Cheese: Add some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the meatballs before baking for a cheesy, gooey interior.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the meatballs and potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but the potatoes may lose some of their crispiness.

FAQs

How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of the meatballs, consider adding freshly chopped herbs like basil or oregano, or adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the mix.

Can I freeze meatballs and potatoes?

Yes! You can freeze the meatballs and potatoes before or after cooking. Freeze the meatballs and potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer before transferring them to an airtight container. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use Russet potatoes, fingerling potatoes, or any other variety you prefer. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if necessary based on the potato type and size.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that the Italian seasoning and any other spices you use are gluten-free.

What should I serve with meatballs and potatoes?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

The best way to check if meatballs are fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut one open to check if it’s no longer pink inside.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the meatballs ahead of time by shaping them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save you time on the day you plan to serve them.

Can I bake the potatoes separately from the meatballs?

Yes, you can bake the potatoes separately if you prefer. Just make sure to toss them in the seasoning and olive oil, then bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese in the meatballs?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use any other hard cheese, like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. You could also skip the cheese altogether for a dairy-free option.

How can I make the potatoes crispy?

To get extra crispy potatoes, make sure they are well-coated with olive oil and spread them out evenly on the baking sheet without overcrowding. You can also flip them halfway through cooking for even crisping.

Conclusion

This Meatballs and Potatoes recipe is an easy, hearty meal that delivers on both flavor and comfort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it’s sure to please all tastes. With versatile ingredients and simple directions, you can tweak the recipe to your liking or enjoy it as is. Whether you choose beef, turkey, or a meat-free option, this dish will always hit the spot!