There’s something undeniably satisfying about the combination of crispy meatballs and creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. This classic pairing offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it a favorite comfort food for many. In this article, we’ll explore a detailed recipe to create this hearty meal at home, ensuring each component is crafted to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 400 grams minced meat (beef or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 4 tablespoons sunflower oil (for frying)
- 4 sprigs parsley, finely chopped
For the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes:
- 1 kilogram potatoes, peeled and diced
- 50 grams butter
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 100 grams cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 sprigs parsley, finely chopped
For Coating the Meatballs:
- 1/2 cup flour (approximately 60 grams)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (approximately 120 grams)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparing the Meatballs:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, paprika, and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, uniform balls, roughly the size of a walnut. This should yield about 20 meatballs, depending on the exact size.
- Prepare for Coating: Set up a coating station with three separate shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, one with the beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Meatballs: Roll each meatball in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place the coated meatballs on a plate or tray.
- Fry the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until golden brown and crispy on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove the meatballs and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Preparing the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and diced potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, salt, black pepper, and grated cheddar cheese. Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the chopped parsley for added flavor and color.
Serving:
Serve the crispy meatballs alongside the cheesy mashed potatoes. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the meal.
Tips and Variations
- Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, the meatballs can be baked instead of fried. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and place the coated meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the mashed potatoes. Sharp cheddar, Parmesan, or even a creamy blue cheese can add a unique flavor profile.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives can be added to both the meatballs and mashed potatoes to elevate the flavors.
- Sauce Addition: For those who prefer a saucier dish, consider serving the meatballs with a homemade tomato sauce or gravy. A simple marinara or a rich mushroom gravy can complement the dish beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sodium: 1200 milligrams
Conclusion
Crispy meatballs paired with cheesy mashed potatoes create a comforting and indulgent meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of textures and flavors offers a satisfying dining experience that is sure to become a household favorite. By following this detailed recipe, you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen, tailored to your personal tastes and preferences.