Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

 

There are few comfort foods as timeless and satisfying as Swedish meatballs—tender, flavorful, and drenched in a silky gravy. Now, imagine combining them with buttery egg noodles, a creamy sauce, and a baked golden finish. That’s exactly what you get with this Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake: a hearty, family-style dish that transforms a classic into a cozy, oven-baked casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this recipe is the ultimate way to bring both comfort and flavor to your table.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef – Provides richness and depth of flavor.

½ lb ground pork – Adds juiciness and tenderness.

½ cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them soft.

1 large egg – Acts as a binder for structure.

¼ cup finely chopped onion – Infuses savory sweetness.

2 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts flavor with aromatic depth.

1 tsp salt + ½ tsp black pepper – Essential for seasoning.

½ tsp ground nutmeg – A classic Swedish touch, warming and slightly sweet.

½ tsp allspice – Adds an earthy, spiced note.

For the Gravy and Sauce

4 tbsp butter – Base for a rich roux.

¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce.

4 cups beef broth – Creates a savory backbone.

1 cup sour cream – Brings creaminess and tang.

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and umami.

Salt & pepper to taste – Balances the flavors.

For the Bake

12 oz egg noodles – Comforting base that soaks up the sauce.

1 cup shredded mozzarella – Melty, gooey topping.

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharpness and a golden crust.

Fresh parsley (for garnish) – A bright finishing touch.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

3. Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a lined baking sheet.

4. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.

2. Cook egg noodles until just al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.

3. Gradually whisk in beef broth until smooth.

4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper.

5. Lower heat and whisk in sour cream until creamy and well-blended.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

1. In a large casserole dish, combine cooked noodles, meatballs, and gravy. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.

2. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.

3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

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Why This Recipe is Loved

This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake takes all the flavors you love from traditional Swedish meatballs and turns them into a creamy, cheesy, oven-baked masterpiece. The balance of tender meatballs, silky sour cream gravy, and perfectly cooked noodles makes every bite irresistibly rich and comforting.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Don’t overmix the meatballs – Overworking the mixture can make them dense.

Undercook the noodles slightly – They’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Make ahead friendly – Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate; bake when ready.

Use freshly grated cheese – Melts better and adds more flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

To complete your meal, pair this Swedish Meatball Casserole with:

Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for a fresh contrast.

Cranberry sauce for a traditional Scandinavian pairing.

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

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Conclusion

This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is the definition of comfort food done right. With tender meatballs, creamy gravy, cheesy topping, and perfectly baked noodles, it’s a dish that brings families together around the table. Simple enough for a weeknight yet i

mpressive enough for guests, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Try it once, and it may just outrank all your other favorite casseroles!