Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

 Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

If comfort food had a crown, the Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake would wear it proudly. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs baked in a creamy, savory sauce with perfectly cooked egg noodles, all topped with melted cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. This dish takes the classic flavors of Swedish meatballs and transforms them into a hearty, family-friendly casserole that’s just as perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner as it is for entertaining guests.

This recipe is irresistible because it combines the rich flavors of Swedish meatballs with the convenience of a casserole—everything you love about home-cooked comfort, with minimal effort. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of noodle, while the meatballs deliver that savory bite that makes everyone go back for seconds.

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Ingredients (and why they matter)

1 lb ground beef – The base of the meatballs, providing rich, hearty flavor.

½ lb ground pork – Adds tenderness and juiciness that beef alone can’t achieve.

1 small onion, finely chopped – Brings sweetness and depth to the meatballs.

2 garlic cloves, minced – Essential for that savory punch.

½ cup breadcrumbs – Binds the meatballs while keeping them tender.

1 large egg – Acts as a natural binder for the meatballs.

½ tsp nutmeg + ½ tsp allspice – Classic Swedish flavors that give the meatballs their signature taste.

Salt & black pepper – Enhances and balances all the flavors.

12 oz egg noodles – A sturdy pasta that holds up beautifully in baked casseroles.

3 tbsp butter – The base for the creamy sauce.

3 tbsp flour – Thickens the sauce into a luscious gravy.

3 cups beef broth – Deep, savory base for the sauce.

1 cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess to the sauce.

2 cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese – Melty, golden topping for the bake.

Fresh parsley (optional) – Brightens and finishes the dish with freshness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper.

Mix gently until just combined (overmixing can make meatballs tough).

Roll into 1-inch balls.

2. Cook the meatballs:

Heat a skillet with a drizzle of oil over medium heat.

Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden. (They don’t need to cook through completely—they’ll finish in the oven.)

Set aside.

3. Boil the noodles:

Cook egg noodles in salted boiling water until just al dente.

Drain and set aside.

4. Make the creamy sauce:

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.

Slowly whisk in beef broth until smooth and slightly thickened.

Stir in sour cream, season with salt and pepper, and remove from heat.

5. Assemble the casserole:

In a large baking dish, combine cooked noodles with the sauce.

Nestle the browned meatballs into the noodles.

Sprinkle with shredded cheese.

6. Bake to perfection:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

7. Finish & serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience.

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Why This Recipe is Loved

Family-friendly: Kids and adults both love the creamy, cheesy, meatball-filled goodness.

Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time for an easy weeknight bake.

Classic flavors with a twist: It keeps the essence of Swedish meatballs while making it casserole-style.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

Use a mix of beef and pork for juicier meatballs.

Don’t overcook the noodles before baking—they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

For a richer flavor, replace half the beef broth with chicken broth.

Add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.

Want a lighter version? Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake with:

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli.

Warm garlic bread for soaking up that creamy sauce.

A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon for balance.

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Conclusion

The Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. With juicy meatballs, tender noodles, and a creamy sauce baked under a blanket

 of cheese, this dish is the definition of comfort food. It’s hearty enough for a family dinner, impressive enough for guests, and easy enough for busy weeknights.