oday, I’m excited to bring a comforting twist to a classic favorite with this Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake recipe. Combining the hearty flavors of Swedish meatballs with the homely comfort of a baked casserole, this dish is perfect for warming up your family dinners. It’s an inviting meal that merges the savory spice of traditional meatballs with the creamy, cheesy goodness of a noodle bake. Let’s dive into making this delightful dish that promises to be a hit at any table.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 large egg, beaten
½ cup breadcrumbs
½ onion, grated
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp Kosher salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Casserole:
½ cups egg noodles
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1-pint heavy cream
1 ½ cups Swiss cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How To Make Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, then form into 1 ½ tablespoon-sized balls.
Brown the meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Cook the noodles: Boil the egg noodles in a large pot of salted water, following the package directions but subtracting two minutes for a firmer bite.
Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet used for meatballs, add the beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Scrape up any browned bits and simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the casserole: Place the cooked noodles in the prepared baking dish, top with meatballs, then pour the sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with grated Swiss cheese.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake!
Tips & Variations
Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mix for a hint of heat.
Substitute the heavy cream with a lighter cream or milk for a less rich sauce.
Experiment with different cheeses, like Gruyere or mozzarella, for a new flavor profile.
Add vegetables like peas or carrots to the bake for a more rounded meal.
This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a warm, inviting experience that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a comforting, satisfying dish. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!