Ingredients

  • 2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce, divided
  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • 1/4 c. dry bread crumbs
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
  • 1/8 tsp. pepper
  • 1 (16 oz.) pkg. frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
  • 3 oz. American cheese slices, cut in 1/2-inch strips
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 c. chopped onions
  • 1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1 Tbsp. butter, melted

Method

  • In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons tomato sauce with beef, egg, bread crumbs, onion and salt.
  • Shape into 1-inch balls. Place on a jelly roll pan and bake at 375° for 15 to 20 minutes or until browned.
  • Meanwhile, in a skillet, combine remaining tomato sauce with vegetables and seasonings.
  • Cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through.
  • Stir in meatballs and set aside.
  • Place hash browns in greased 11 x 7 x 20-inch baking dish.
  • Brush with butter and bake at 375° for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly browned.
  • Remove from oven and top with meatball mixture.
  • Arrange cheese strips in a lattice pattern on top; return to oven for 20 minutes.
  • Yields 6 servings.