Ingredients
2 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce, divided1 large egg1/4 cup dry bread crumbs1/4 cup chopped onion1 teaspoon salt1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)1 package (10 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables1/2 teaspoon dried thyme1/8 teaspoon pepper1 package (16 ounces) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed1 tablespoon butter, melted3 slices process American cheese, cut into 1/2-inch strips
Preparation
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.
