\

Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

by

Introduction

Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is a hearty casserole that combines tender meatballs, egg noodles, and a rich, creamy gravy baked together until bubbly and comforting. It’s a family-friendly dish that brings classic Swedish flavors into an easy, one-pan meal.

Origin

Traditional Swedish meatballs (köttbullar) date back to 18th-century Sweden and are known for their warm spices and creamy sauce. This baked noodle version is a modern American twist, adapting the flavors into a convenient casserole format.

Cultural Significance

Swedish meatballs are iconic comfort food, symbolizing warmth and hospitality. The noodle bake reflects contemporary home cooking—blending tradition with practicality for busy families.

Ingredients and Quantities

Meatballs

  • 450 g (1 lb) ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp allspice
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg

Casserole Base

  • 340 g (12 oz) egg noodles
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Topping

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Additions

  • Mushrooms sautéed in butter
  • Onion or shallot in the sauce
  • Parmesan cheese for topping
  • Frozen peas for color and sweetness

Tips for Success

  1. Don’t Overmix Meatballs: Keeps them tender.
  2. Season the Sauce Well: Cream sauces need salt balance.
  3. Undercook Noodles Slightly: They finish cooking in the oven.
  4. Cover First, Then Uncover: Prevents drying out.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish.
  2. Prepare Meatballs:
    • Mix all meatball ingredients gently.
    • Roll into small balls and brown in a skillet until golden. Set aside.
  4. Cook Noodles:
    • Boil egg noodles until just al dente. Drain.
  6. Make Sauce:
    • Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour.
    • Slowly add broth, stirring until thickened.
    • Stir in cream and Worcestershire sauce.
  8. Assemble Bake:
    • Combine noodles, meatballs, and sauce.
    • Transfer to baking dish and sprinkle cheese on top.
  10. Bake:
    • Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes.
    • Uncover and bake 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  12. Serve:
    • Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Description

This dish is creamy, savory, and deeply comforting. Juicy meatballs nestle into tender noodles, all coated in a rich gravy that bakes into irresistible perfection.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 540 kcal
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated fat: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg

Values may vary.

Conclusion

Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake brings beloved flavors into a cozy, shareable casserole. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.

Recommendation

Serve with buttered green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp cucumber salad. Leftovers reheat beautifully.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Use lean ground beef or turkey, swap half-and-half for cream, and add vegetables like peas or mushrooms to keep this indulgent dish balanced.

Leave a Comment