Cheddar Ranch Meatball Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheddar Ranch Meatball Bake combines the classic flavors of hearty meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, tangy ranch seasoning, and gooey cheddar cheese. This recipe is simple to make, highly customizable, and perfect for family meals. The comforting blend of textures—from juicy meatballs to smooth mashed potatoes and melty cheese—will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef

• ¼ cup breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, warm)

• 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix

• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter, and place them in a single layer in a baking dish.

4. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and lightly browned.

5. While the meatballs bake, prepare the mashed potatoes. If you haven’t already made them, use your favorite mashed potato recipe or simply heat up leftovers.

6. In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning with the mashed potatoes until well combined.

7. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and carefully spoon the ranch mashed potatoes over the top of the meatballs in the baking dish.

8. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes and meatballs.

9. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Serves 4

• Total Time: 50 minutes (including prep and cooking)

Variations

• Meatball variations: Swap in turkey or chicken meatballs for a leaner version of the dish.

• Vegetarian version: Use plant-based meatballs or swap for a hearty veggie filling such as sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or beans.

• Cheese options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of sharp cheddar and Gouda for a unique flavor twist.

• Ranch seasoning alternatives: If you prefer, you can make your own ranch seasoning mix using herbs and spices such as dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, though the cheese might not melt as evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?

Yes! Using pre-cooked frozen meatballs is a great way to save time. Simply bake them according to the package instructions and then follow the remaining steps of the recipe.

2. Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat them before using in the recipe.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda, depending on your preferences. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.

4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works as a lighter alternative to ground beef and will still taste great in this recipe.

5. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely and use a small amount of gluten-free oat flour as a binder for the meatballs.

6. Can I use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes?

Yes, mashed cauliflower is a great low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. It will work perfectly in this recipe for a healthier twist.

7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! You can mix in vegetables like peas, corn, or roasted carrots to make the dish even more hearty and nutritious.

8. How do I prevent the cheese from becoming too oily?

To avoid excess oil from the cheese, be sure to use a moderate amount of shredded cheese and avoid over-baking. Keep an eye on the dish as the cheese melts to ensure it’s just bubbly and golden.

9. Can I freeze the Cheddar Ranch Meatball Bake?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Assemble it fully (without baking), then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until heated through.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe for a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Cheddar Ranch Meatball Bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy meatballs, creamy ranch-infused mashed potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Plus, with the flexibility to swap ingredients and make it your own, it’s a dish you’ll return to time and time again.

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Cheddar Ranch Meatball Bake is a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines seasoned meatballs, ranch-infused mashed potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

¼ cup breadcrumbs

1 large egg

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, warm)

1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix

1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter, and place them in a single layer in a baking dish.
4. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and lightly browned.
5. While the meatballs bake, prepare the mashed potatoes. If you haven’t already made them, use your favorite mashed potato recipe or simply heat up leftovers.
6. In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning with the mashed potatoes until well combined.
7. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and carefully spoon the ranch mashed potatoes over the top of the meatballs in the baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes and meatballs.
9. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley before serving.

Notes

• You can swap in turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter version.
• For a vegetarian version, use plant-based meatballs or a hearty veggie filling like sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
• Experiment with different cheese options such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda.
• Make your own ranch seasoning mix using herbs and spices like dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.
• This dish can be made gluten-free with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour as a binder.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg