Ingredients
3 large potatoes, peeled
1 lb ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork)
1 chopped white onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 large egg
¼ cup breadcrumbs
1 ½ cups shredded Mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
1 cup Béchamel sauce (or heavy cream mixed with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper)
1 tsp salt (divided)
½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Par-Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled, whole potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until they are slightly softened but still quite firm in the center (they should not be fully cooked or crumbly). Drain, let them cool slightly, and slice them into uniform, thick rounds.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a round, deep baking dish or pie pan.
3. Mix and Form the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped white onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, egg, breadcrumbs, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands, then shape the mixture into medium-sized, uniform meatballs.
4. Arrange the Dish: Create an alternating pattern in your prepared baking dish by placing a potato slice, then a raw meatball, then another potato slice, working your way around the edges in a circle and filling in the center until the dish is beautifully packed.
5. Add the Cream and Cheese: Pour your Béchamel sauce or seasoned heavy cream evenly over the arranged potatoes and meatballs. Blanket the entire dish with a generous layer of the shredded cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the meatballs are completely cooked through, the potatoes are tender, and the cheese on top is bubbly, deeply melted, and beautifully golden brown. Serve hot!
Nutrition Facts
(Per Serving – Recipe serves 6)
Calories: 380 kcal
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2.5g
Health Benefits
Complete Protein for Muscle Care: The ground beef and egg mixture supplies high-quality, complete proteins containing the necessary amino acids required for efficient muscle maintenance and cellular tissue repair.
Potassium-Rich Carbohydrates: Thick potato slices serve as a great source of complex carbohydrates and deliver an abundant supply of potassium, helping to regulate fluid balance and support muscle function.
Bioavailable Calcium Delivery: A rich covering of melted Mozzarella or Gruyère cheese provides a solid serving of calcium and phosphorus to keep bones and teeth structurally strong.
Immune-Supporting Aromatics: Fresh onions, garlic, and parsley are naturally packed with sulfur compounds and antioxidants that aid in reducing inflammation and strengthening immune defenses.