Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

Who among us doesn’t love the Swedish meatball? It’s not so much that the meatball itself is that unique (except maybe the fact that it’s generally seasoned with nutmeg instead of basil and oregano), it’s that it’s usually served in a delicious and creamy sauce. While you might like them served over mashed potatoes, I’m partial to pairing them with egg noodles, myself, and this casserole brings you all of that goodness in one baked dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake combines all the comforting flavors you adore in one convenient dish. With tender meatballs, savory noodles, and a creamy sauce, it’s a meal that brings warmth to the table. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large bowl
• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large pot
• Nonstick spray

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 onion, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Casserole:

• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 pint heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 1/2 cups egg noodles
• 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, grated
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Set aside.
2. First, make the meatballs: In a large bowl, mix together the beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, nutmeg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Scoop mixture out in 1 1/2 tablespoons and roll into balls.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides. (They’ll finish cooking in the oven.) Remove to a plate and set aside.
4. While meatballs cook, boil a large pot of salted water and cook noodles 2 minutes less than package calls for.
5. To the same skillet that the meatballs were seared in, add broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any stuck-on bits on the bottom.
6. Let simmer until slightly thicker, about 10 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper and remove from heat.
7. Add pasta to baking dish, and nestle meatballs into noodles. Pour sauce evenly over the top and top with cheese.
8. Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20 minutes. Let sit 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the meatballs are browned evenly to lock in flavor.
• Don’t overcook the noodles; they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Adjust seasoning to your liking before assembling the casserole.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Try using a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor in the meatballs.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the sauce for a twist.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Gruyere.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is rich and hearty, providing a good source of protein from the meatballs and calcium from the cheese. Be mindful of portion sizes if you are watching your calorie intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.

Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What can I serve with this dish? A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pair well with this casserole.

Conclusion

This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for cozy dinners. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with!