Here’s a delicious recipe for baked potatoes with meatballs that combines the comforting flavors of both!
Baked Potatoes with Meatballs
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Potatoes:
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or chives)
For the Sauce:
- 1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Grated cheese for topping (like mozzarella or provolone)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the russet potatoes. Prick them with a fork several times to allow steam to escape.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
- Make the Meatballs:
- In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake Everything:
- After the potatoes have been in the oven for about 20 minutes, add the meatballs to the oven. Bake both the potatoes and meatballs for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the potatoes are tender.
- Warm the Sauce:
- While the meatballs and potatoes are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Assemble:
- Once the potatoes are done, carefully slice them open and fluff the insides with a fork.
- Place several meatballs inside each potato, spoon over some marinara sauce, and sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Melt the Cheese:
- If desired, return the stuffed potatoes to the oven for about 5-10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Enjoy your hearty baked potatoes with meatballs! It’s a filling and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.