Description
This Creamy Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake combines tender egg noodles and savory Swedish meatballs with a rich, creamy sauce topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this baked casserole is easy to prepare and bursting with classic Scandinavian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meatballs
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 1 lb frozen Swedish meatballs, thawed
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for approximately 5 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cooked egg noodles, thawed Swedish meatballs, and creamy sauce until everything is evenly coated and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the noodle and meatball mixture into the dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese uniformly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- To save time, use pre-cooked or store-bought Swedish meatballs.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but sauce may be less rich.
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness but can be omitted or replaced with chopped chives.
- Ensure noodles are not overcooked to prevent a mushy casserole.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; add a few extra minutes to the baking time when baking chilled.