Boil the potatoes with a clove of garlic until tender and mash them while hot to create a smooth, lightly seasoned base.
Mix the ground beef with chopped onion, eggs and spices thoroughly so the meatballs are well flavoured and hold together during baking.
Shape the meat mixture into evenly sized meatballs and arrange them in a baking dish to ensure uniform cooking.
Fry chopped onion, carrot and bell pepper in olive oil until soft to build a sweet, aromatic foundation for the sauce.
Add tomato puree and grated fresh tomatoes to the vegetables and simmer briefly to create a rich, cohesive tomato sauce.
Pour half of the sauce around the meatballs, add a layer of cheese, then cover with the remaining sauce and more cheese for a golden top.
Bake the meatballs in the sauce at the correct temperature until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is melted and browned.
Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking so the sauce thickens slightly and the meatballs become easier to serve.
Serve the baked meatballs and vegetable sauce alongside or over the creamy potato mash to create a complete, comforting plate.
Enjoy the dish as a hearty main course that combines tender meat, rich sauce, melted cheese and soft potatoes in one satisfying meal.