Cheddar Ranch Meatball Bake

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into 12–14 small meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 15–18 minutes, or until browned and mostly cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, stir the ranch seasoning mix into the warm mashed potatoes until fully incorporated.
6. Spread the seasoned mashed potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
7. Nestle the baked meatballs into the mashed potatoes.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the entire dish.
9. Return to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired.

Variations :

• Smoky Twist: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the mashed potatoes before baking.
• Make It Spicy: Mix a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes into the meatball mix.
• Low-Carb Swap: Use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lower-carb version.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added creaminess and kick.

Tips :

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture—it keeps the texture tender.
• Use leftover mashed potatoes or even store-bought for a quicker prep.
• For extra browning, broil the dish for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
• Freeze ahead by assembling everything (without baking), then freezing and baking straight from frozen with added time.

Cheddar Ranch Meatball Bake brings together classic flavors in a comforting, cheesy casserole that’s sure to be a favorite with the whole family. Simple, satisfying, and full of warmth—this dish is comfort food done right.