Imagine a dish that combines the hearty richness of perfectly seasoned meatballs with the creamy, golden-brown goodness of a classic potato gratin. This Potato and Meatball Gratin is the ultimate comfort food that transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With its perfect blend of tender potatoes, juicy meatballs, and a luxurious creamy sauce, this recipe promises to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 400g (14 oz) ground beef (or beef/veal mix)
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley
For the Gratin:
- 700g (1.5 lbs) potatoes
- 200ml (3/4 cup) single cream
- 100ml (1/2 cup) milk
- 1 garlic clove
- 100g (3.5 oz) grated cheese (Emmental, Comté, mozzarella, or mixed)
- Nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter for greasing the dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, crushed garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into medium-sized meatballs, approximately 2-3 cm in diameter.
- Heat a pan with a drizzle of oil and fry the meatballs for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown on all sides.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin, uniform slices (about 3-4 mm thick). A mandolin slicer works best for consistent thickness.
- Rub a whole garlic clove around the inside of a gratin dish.
- Generously butter the dish to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.
- Assemble the Gratin:
- Create the first layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping them to cover the bottom of the dish.
- Distribute some of the prepared meatballs over the potato layer.
- Continue layering potatoes and meatballs, ensuring an even distribution.
- Finish with a final layer of potatoes on top.
- Bake the Gratin:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a separate bowl, mix cream, milk, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Pour the cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and meatballs.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese on top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Details
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 people
Nutritional Highlights
- Protein-rich from the beef meatballs
- Good source of complex carbohydrates from potatoes
- Calcium and calcium from cheese and dairy
Why This Recipe is a Nutritious Choice
This Potato and Meatball Gratin isn’t just delicious—it’s a balanced meal that provides essential nutrients. The lean ground beef offers high-quality protein for muscle maintenance, while potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber. The addition of fresh herbs and minimal processing makes this a wholesome dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.
The combination of proteins, vegetables, and dairy creates a well-rounded meal that can satisfy hunger while providing sustained energy. The use of fresh ingredients and controlled portioning makes this a smarter alternative to heavily processed comfort foods.
Pro Tip: For a lighter version, use lean ground meat and low-fat dairy options without sacrificing taste.