MIDWEST MEATBALL CASSEROLE

Midwest Meatball Casserole image

Provided by @MakeItYours

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce, divided
1 large egg
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon salt
1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
1 package (10 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 package (16 ounces) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 tablespoon butter, melted
3 slices process American cheese, cut into 1/2-inch strips

Steps:

In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons tomato sauce, egg, bread crumbs, onion and salt. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well. Shape into 1-in. balls., Place meatballs on a greased rack in a shallow baking pan and bake at 375° for 15-20 minutes or until meatballs are no longer pink; drain., Meanwhile, in a large skillet, combine remaining tomato sauce with vegetables and seasonings. Cover and simmer 10-15 minutes or until heated through; stir in meatballs and set aside., Place potatoes in a greased 11x7-in. baking dish. Brush with butter and bake at 375° for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from the oven; top with meatball mixture. Arrange cheese strips in a lattice pattern on top. Bake, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes longer or until heated through and cheese is melted.