Cheesy Baked Mashed Potato and Meat Patties
This recipe is a creative and comforting twist on classic meatballs and mashed potatoes. Fluffy mashed potato rounds infused with herbs like dill are topped with seasoned meatballs, then baked with cheese until golden and bubbly. The result is a hearty all-in-one meal that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or a satisfying weekend treat.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Servings: 6–8 patties
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potato Base
3–4 medium potatoes peeled and boiled
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup milk or cream
Salt to taste
1/4 cup fresh dill chopped (or parsley)
1 egg (optional for firmer texture)
For the Meat Topping
400–500g ground beef or pork (or a mix)
1 small onion finely grated or chopped
1 garlic clove minced
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika or dried herbs (optional)
For Topping
1/2 to 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella cheddar or a mix)
Chopped parsley or dill (for garnish)
Instructions
Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes until soft then mash with butter milk salt and chopped dill. Mix in 1 egg if using for extra firmness. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a bowl combine ground meat onion garlic egg and seasonings. Mix well and form into equal-sized meatballs.
Shape the Patties
On a baking tray lined with parchment paper form round patties from the mashed potatoes. Gently press a meatball into the center of each one flattening slightly so it stays in place.
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over each patty.
Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until meat is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve hot with a side salad or dipping sauce.
Tips
Use Cold Mashed Potatoes
Chilling the mashed potatoes before shaping helps them hold their form better while baking.
Grease Hands for Shaping
Lightly oil your hands to prevent mashed potatoes and meat from sticking during shaping.
Check Doneness
Use a meat thermometer if unsure—internal temp should reach at least 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
Drain Extra Fat
If your meat is high-fat, you can place a rack under the patties to allow excess grease to drip off.
Variations
Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs
Add a small cube of cheese inside each meatball for a gooey surprise center.
Vegetarian Option
Replace meatballs with sautéed mushrooms, lentil patties, or veggie balls.
Spicy Twist
Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for heat.
Flavor the Potatoes
Mix in garlic powder, parmesan, or chopped scallions for extra depth in the mash.
Mini Bites
Make smaller versions for appetizers or party platters.