Here’s a detailed, step-by-step article for you on Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake:
Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake: A Comfort Dish with a Scandinavian Twist
Few meals can match the heartwarming combination of creamy pasta, tender meatballs, and a golden baked topping. Swedish meatballs are already a global comfort food favorite, and when paired with noodles and baked until bubbly, they transform into an irresistible casserole: the Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake. This dish brings together the flavors of traditional Swedish cuisine and the coziness of an American-style casserole, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can mix with ground pork for extra richness)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup onion, finely grated
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp allspice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bake:
- 12 oz egg noodles (wide, cooked al dente)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (and pork, if using), breadcrumbs, grated onion, egg, milk, garlic powder, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently until the ingredients just come together—avoid overmixing so the meatballs stay tender.
- Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet, as they’ll finish baking later. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Swedish Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Let it cook for about 1 minute to remove any raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Add the heavy cream (or sour cream for tanginess) and Worcestershire sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be velvety and rich, clinging lightly to the spoon.
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