Why You’ll Love Meatballs and Potatoes: A Hearty and Delicious Meal Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare in stages, and perfect for family meals. I like that I can serve it with or without the sauce depending on my mood, and the combination of warm spices, tender meatballs, and roasted potatoes always feels satisfying and familiar.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb (Halal-certified)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a firmer texture)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Potatoes:

4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon garlic powder (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Sauce (Optional):

1/2 cup tomato paste
1/4 cup water or chicken broth (Halal-certified)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

I start by making the meatball mixture. In a large bowl, I combine the ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs if I’m using them, egg, cumin, coriander, black pepper, salt, and cinnamon. I mix everything until well combined, then shape the mixture into meatballs about 1½ inches in diameter.

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches, turning them so they brown evenly on all sides. Once fully cooked, I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

For the potatoes, I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). I toss the potato cubes with olive oil, thyme or rosemary, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if I’m using it. I spread them in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and roast them for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

If I’m making the sauce, I heat olive oil in a small saucepan and stir in the tomato paste, water or broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. I let it simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened.

To serve, I arrange the meatballs on a platter with the roasted potatoes around them. I pour the sauce over the top if I’m using it and finish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

I make this recipe to serve about 6 people. The prep time takes me around 20 minutes, the cooking time is about 55 minutes, and the total time comes to approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use only ground beef or only lamb depending on what I have. I also like adding chili flakes for heat or paprika for smokiness. When I want a lighter version, I bake the meatballs instead of frying them.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm everything in the oven or on the stovetop so the meatballs stay juicy and the potatoes stay crisp.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

I bake them at 400°F (200°C) until cooked through and lightly browned.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I prepare the meatballs and potatoes in advance and reheat them before serving.

What potatoes work best?

I like using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for roasting.

Is the sauce necessary?

I enjoy it with or without the sauce depending on how rich I want the dish.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

I freeze cooked meatballs and reheat them later with great results.

How do I keep meatballs juicy?

I avoid overmixing and don’t overcook them.

Can I add vegetables?

I sometimes add carrots or bell peppers alongside the potatoes.

What herbs work well here?

I enjoy parsley, thyme, rosemary, or even a little mint.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

I can, but I prefer the simple homemade one.

What should I serve with this?

I usually serve it with a salad, bread, or yogurt-based sauce.

Conclusion

I find this meatballs and potatoes recipe to be a hearty, comforting meal that’s full of flavor and warmth. With spiced meatballs, crispy potatoes, and an optional rich sauce, it’s a dish I love making whenever I want something filling, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.