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Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake
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This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake combines tender egg noodles, flavorful homemade meatballs, and a rich, creamy sauce infused with classic Scandinavian spices. Baked to golden perfection and topped with Parmesan, this comforting one-pan dish is perfect for family dinners, easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and sure to become a cozy favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Noodles

  • 8 oz egg noodles (or gluten-free noodles)

Creamy Sauce

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half/milk with butter)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp dried or fresh dill

Topping

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and any additional preferred seasonings. Mix gently but thoroughly using your hands or a spoon, then shape into small, evenly sized meatballs to ensure uniform cooking.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs in batches until they develop a golden crust on all sides. They do not need to be cooked through completely, as they’ll finish baking in the sauce.
  3. Cook the Noodles: While browning the meatballs, cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to avoid overcooking during baking.
  4. Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in flour to form a roux. Slowly whisk in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce, nutmeg, and dill, stirring to blend the classic Swedish flavors.
  5. Combine and Assemble: Gently toss the cooked noodles with the creamy sauce, then fold in the browned meatballs. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and the casserole is bubbling along the edges. Let rest a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender and juicy.
  • Thoroughly brown meatballs for enhanced flavor and texture.
  • Use fresh dill and freshly grated nutmeg for the most authentic flavor.
  • Make sure the sauce is properly thickened to hold the casserole together.
  • Allow the bake to rest after removing from the oven for easier serving.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free noodles and breadcrumbs.
  • This dish freezes well; thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: Swedish meatball casserole, creamy meatball bake, baked egg noodle casserole, comfort food, Scandinavian casserole, family dinner, one-pan meal, freezer friendly

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/swedish-meatball-noodle-bake/