Introduction
Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is a cozy and comforting dish that brings together tender meatballs, creamy sauce, and soft egg noodles all baked into one delicious casserole. It’s a twist on the classic Swedish meatballs, but even easier to serve and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals.
If you love creamy pasta dishes and flavorful meatballs, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s made with simple ingredients and doesn’t take much time to prepare. Plus, baking everything together makes cleanup super easy too! Let’s get started on this mouthwatering dish that’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and full of flavor.
Ingredients – Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake:
For the Meatballs (or you can use frozen meatballs):
- 1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half pork)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
For the Noodle Bake:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step by Step Process – Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling the egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
If using frozen meatballs, skip this step.
To make homemade meatballs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg.
- Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch wide).
- Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes until cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it turns light brown (this is your roux).
- Slowly whisk in the beef broth. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the sour cream and heavy cream.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. You now have your creamy Swedish-style sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- In a large mixing bowl or casserole dish, mix the cooked noodles with the creamy sauce.
- Add the meatballs and gently toss until everything is coated well.
- If you like cheesy bakes, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake It!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if it’s not already on.
- Bake the noodle bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and golden on top.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 510 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Cholesterol | 115 mg |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Calcium | 100 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes! Frozen meatballs work great and save time. Just cook them as directed on the package before mixing with the sauce and noodles.
2. What kind of noodles should I use?
Egg noodles are best because they’re soft and hold the sauce well. You can use other pasta like rotini or penne if you like.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake it for 30–35 minutes until hot and bubbly.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in foil. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 minutes.
5. What can I serve with this noodle bake?
It pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Final Thoughts
Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. It combines the classic taste of creamy Swedish meatballs with the ease of a baked pasta dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or bringing it to a potluck, this recipe is sure to please.
The best part? You can easily customize it. Use frozen or homemade meatballs, add cheese or keep it simple, make it ahead of time, and freeze leftovers for busy days. So next time you’re craving a warm and creamy meal, give this Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake a try. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
