If you love comforting oven-baked meals with crispy potatoes, juicy meatballs, and gooey melted cheese, this French-inspired casserole is the perfect recipe. It’s simple, filling, and packed with flavor — ideal for family dinners or cozy weekends at home.
Ingredients:
For the Potatoes
6 medium potatoes
Water for boiling
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter
For the Meatballs
500 g ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 egg
3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian herbs
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce
1 cup cooking cream
2 tablespoons tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Topping
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Wash and peel the potatoes. Place them in a large pot filled with salted water and boil for about 15–20 minutes until slightly tender but not falling apart.
Drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes
Cut the boiled potatoes into medium slices. Lightly grease a baking dish with butter and arrange half of the potato slices evenly on the bottom.
Step 3: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Chopped onion
Garlic
Egg
Breadcrumbs
Paprika
Italian herbs
Salt and pepper
Mix well until everything is fully combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the meatballs for about 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
They do not need to be fully cooked because they will finish baking in the oven.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
