A traditional Albanian dish made with love – juicy meatballs baked over seasoned potatoes for the perfect family meal
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
This comforting and flavorful dish is a staple in many Albanian households. Tender meatballs made from ground beef and herbs are oven-baked over a bed of sliced potatoes seasoned with olive oil and oregano. It’s a simple, one-pan meal that brings warmth and tradition to your dinner table. Perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 500 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the potatoes:
- 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well using your hands until the mixture is smooth. Shape into round or oval meatballs, depending on your preference.
2. Prepare the potatoes
Peel and slice the potatoes into medium-thick rounds. Place them in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss lightly to coat the potatoes evenly.
3. Assemble and bake
Arrange the meatballs on top of the seasoned potatoes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the meatballs are golden brown.
Tips and Variations
- Add sliced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Serve with a side of fresh salad, yogurt sauce, or tzatziki.
- For a lighter version, use ground chicken or turkey.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 20 g