There’s just something soul-soothing about a big, bubbling casserole packed with tender meatballs, creamy sauce, and golden noodles. This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake brings all the iconic flavors of classic Swedish meatballs together in an irresistibly cozy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. You get the savory blend of beef and pork, a hint of warming spices, and that tangy swirl of sour cream, all blanketed under bubbly cheese. The first forkful will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe truly proves that comfort food can be deliciously simple without cutting corners on flavor. Each ingredient plays a special part, from the aromatic spices to the creamy sauce and the gooey cheese on top, ensuring every bite of the Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake feels like a homemade treat.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Adds hearty, rich flavor and meaty texture for the classic Swedish meatball base.
- Ground pork (½ pound): Contributes juiciness and a little sweetness, balancing out the beef perfectly.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Binds the meatballs together and helps them stay tender rather than dense.
- Egg (1): Holds the meatball mixture together so they’re easy to shape and cook.
- Finely chopped onion (¼ cup): Offers a subtle savory sweetness and extra moisture.
- Ground allspice (¼ teaspoon): Brings that unmistakable warm Swedish aroma – don’t skip it!
- Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds depth and a touch of gentle spice to the meatballs.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Brightens all the other flavors and seasons the whole dish.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): A little bite to complement the mild sauce and meat mixture.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Used to brown the meatballs and start off the creamy sauce.
- Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce for that luscious, velvety texture.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Makes a rich, savory gravy that soaks into every noodle.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Gives the sauce its signature tang and silky finish.
- Egg noodles, cooked and drained (8 oz): The perfect soft, springy base for scooping up all that sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese (1 cup): Melts into a gooey, golden top that no one can resist.
- Chopped parsley (2 tablespoons, optional): A fresh green sprinkle for color and a pop of flavor.
How to Make Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s hot when you’re ready to bake. In a large bowl, combine your ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything really well until no streaks remain. Once combined, form the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, roughly 1 inch in diameter. Set them aside on a tray or plate as you go.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s sizzling, add your raw meatballs in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan as you want a nice sear on each one. Cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer the finished meatballs to a plate and repeat as needed.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Without cleaning the skillet (flavor is your friend!), sprinkle the flour over the drippings and whisk for about a minute to remove the raw taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly until you have a smooth, savory sauce. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until it thickens up to a gravy-like consistency. Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the sour cream until it’s luscious and creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Layer
Grab a big mixing bowl and add your cooked noodles, browned meatballs, and every drop of that creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together until the noodles and meatballs are coated and happy. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure it’s spread out evenly.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese all over the top for that irresistible bubbly finish. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling around the edges. If you love some color, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake
Garnishes
Right before bringing your Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake to the table, try scattering a handful of fresh chopped parsley or even a little dill if you have it on hand. For an extra-special touch, a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper or a swirl of additional sour cream on top really highlights the creamy tang of the dish.
Side Dishes
This bake is hearty all on its own, but it shines even brighter next to a crisp green salad, some steamed green beans, or roasted carrots. Traditional lingonberry sauce adds a sweet-tart Scandinavian touch, while a side of garlic bread or soft dinner rolls helps mop up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For weeknight casual, serve right from the baking dish and let everyone dig in. If you’re entertaining, portion the Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake into individual ramekins – it feels instantly more special! Or, for a family-style brunch, offer it alongside a breakfast egg bake and simple fruit salad for an unexpected (but very welcome) twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake keeps beautifully covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and prevent those noodles from drying out too soon.
Freezing
If you’d like to prep in advance, assemble the dish (but don’t bake), wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to one month. You can also freeze individual fully baked portions. Just make sure you let it cool completely before freezing to preserve the texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat portions in a 350°F oven, covered, until warmed through and the cheese is melty once more. If you’re in a hurry, a minute or two in the microwave (loosely covered) does the trick, but be gentle to keep the noodles tender.
FAQs
Can I use only ground beef instead of beef and pork?
Absolutely! Using just ground beef will still yield tasty meatballs, though blending with pork gives an even juicier, more authentic Swedish flavor. You can also try ground turkey for a lighter twist.
Is there a substitute for sour cream in the sauce?
Yes, Greek yogurt (full-fat is best) makes a wonderful substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It brings a lighter tang and all that creamy goodness, perfect if you want a bit less richness.
What’s the best noodle for Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake?
Egg noodles are classic here for their tender texture and ability to soak up sauce, but in a pinch, small pasta shapes like rotini or penne also work well. Just cook them until just tender, not mushy.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for the meatballs and sauce. The bake will be every bit as creamy and comforting.
How far ahead can I assemble the bake?
You can prep the meatballs and sauce a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just toss everything together with the noodles, top with cheese, and bake fresh for dinner!
Final Thoughts
This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake truly combines the best of cozy home-cooking in one irresistible dish. If you’re craving comfort, warmth, and a dinner everyone will remember, give it a try – and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family tradition!
Print
Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swedish-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake that combines tender meatballs, creamy sauce, and cheesy noodles for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ pound ground pork
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
Additional:
- 8 oz egg noodles (cooked and drained)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Prepare meatballs: Mix together ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs and set aside.
- Cook meatballs: Brown the meatballs in a skillet. Remove and set aside.
- Make sauce: Whisk flour into drippings, pour in beef broth, simmer, and add sour cream.
- Combine ingredients: Mix cooked noodles, meatballs, and sauce. Transfer to baking dish.
- Bake: Sprinkle cheese on top and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can make the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for quick assembly.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.
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