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Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines tender, flavorful meatballs with a creamy sauce and cheesy noodles, creating a cozy meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. This family-friendly bake offers rich indulgence through its smooth sauce and melted cheese, making it a satisfying choice that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef or pork
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg

Creamy Sauce

  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg

Noodles and Topping

  • 8 oz egg noodles (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, gently combine ground meat, egg, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix just until combined to keep meatballs tender, then shape into small bite-sized meatballs.
  2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs evenly on all sides until fully cooked through. Remove and set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat, locking in flavor and texture.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Using the same skillet, stir together beef broth with sour cream or cream cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Heat gently, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. Cook the Noodles: Meanwhile, boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly, then toss them with the creamy sauce to coat every strand evenly.
  5. Assemble and Bake: In a baking dish, combine the creamy noodles and cooked meatballs, mixing gently for even distribution. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat to keep meatballs tender instead of dense.
  • Properly brown meatballs to enhance flavor through caramelization.
  • Use fresh egg noodles if possible for extra softness and better sauce absorption.
  • Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set and make serving easier.
  • Customize cheese toppings with mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend for different textures and flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Swedish meatballs, noodle bake, creamy meatball casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, cheesy bake, one dish meal