Homemade Meatball Bake

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, optional
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup beef broth or red wine
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more, to taste
• 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
• 1 cup half-and-half cream or milk
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped