Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

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If there’s one dish that always brings comfort to my table, it’s a creamy, cozy casserole—and this Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake checks every single box. It’s savory, rich, and packed with flavor in every bite. Imagine tender homemade meatballs, perfectly browned, nestled in buttery egg noodles and coated in a luscious Swedish-style gravy. It’s the kind of hearty dinner that makes everyone at the table feel like they’re getting a warm hug on a plate.

I love how this recipe takes a classic like Swedish meatballs and transforms it into a one-dish wonder that’s weeknight-friendly but also impressive enough to serve to guests. The creamy sauce soaks into the noodles just right, and the golden-baked top adds that irresistible texture. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish to bring to a potluck, this bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

• It combines the classic comfort of Swedish meatballs with the heartiness of a pasta bake.
• Perfect for make-ahead meals or busy weeknights.
• Rich, creamy sauce made with pantry staples.
• Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved.
• Easy to customize with what you have on hand.

What Kind of Meatballs Should I Use?

You can absolutely use homemade meatballs for the richest flavor and best texture—I like making a blend of beef and pork for juiciness. But if time is tight, frozen store-bought meatballs will do the trick. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before you toss them into the dish. Either way, browning them a little before baking adds so much flavor.

Options for Substitutions

• Meat: Swap the beef/pork meatballs with turkey or chicken for a leaner bake.
• Pasta: Egg noodles are classic, but rotini or fusilli can also hold the sauce well.
• Cream: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to lighten it up.
• Broth: Beef broth adds depth, but chicken broth works too in a pinch.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and a thickener like cornstarch instead of flour for the sauce.

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Ingredients for this Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

• Ground Beef and Pork: The perfect combo for rich, juicy meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while adding moisture.
• Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and keeps the meatballs tender.
• Egg: Holds everything together.
• Onion: Adds sweet, aromatic flavor to both the meatballs and the sauce.
• Garlic: A hint of sharpness to balance the richness.
• Nutmeg & Allspice: Essential Swedish spices that give depth and authenticity.
• Salt & Pepper: Brings out all the flavors.
• Egg Noodles: Wide noodles that soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Butter: For sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
• Flour: Thickens the sauce into a luscious gravy.
• Beef Broth: Deepens the savory base.
• Heavy Cream: Creates that ultra-creamy consistency.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and complexity.
• Parsley: Fresh and vibrant finish.

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Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, egg, grated onion, garlic, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Roll into 1-inch balls.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a touch of oil. Brown the meatballs in batches until they’re golden on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked—just nicely seared. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Boil the egg noodles in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook—the noodles will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the meatballs, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it smells slightly nutty. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, then add the cream and Worcestershire sauce. Let it simmer until thick and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked noodles with the sauce, folding gently to coat. Nestle the browned meatballs on top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes serving easier. Scoop into bowls and garnish with extra parsley, if desired.

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How Long to Prepare the Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

This dish is surprisingly easy to pull together, even though it tastes like something that’s been simmering all day.

Prep Time: Preparing the meatballs, cooking the noodles, and making the sauce will take around 30–35 minutes. Browning the meatballs does add a few extra minutes, but it’s worth it for the flavor boost.

Bake Time: Once assembled, the bake needs about 30–35 minutes in the oven—20 minutes covered, then 10–15 minutes uncovered to get that gorgeous golden top.

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Tips for Perfect Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture—it makes them tough. Just fold until combined.
• Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly so it clings beautifully to the noodles.
• Cook noodles just until al dente—they’ll absorb sauce in the oven and become perfectly tender.
• Brown the meatballs well. This not only adds flavor but also helps them hold their shape.
• Fresh parsley at the end adds a burst of freshness to balance the creamy richness.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the noodles: They’ll get mushy after baking. Stop at al dente.
• Skipping the roux: The butter and flour mixture is essential to a thick, creamy sauce.
• Crowding the pan when browning meatballs: This causes them to steam instead of brown. Cook in batches.
• Under-seasoning: Taste the sauce before assembling. Salt enhances everything.
• Not letting it rest: Resting lets the sauce set up, making serving easier and more flavorful.

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What to Serve With Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake?

1. Simple Green Salad

A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness to the rich casserole.

2. Garlic Bread

Crusty, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

3. Steamed Green Beans

A simple veggie side that complements without overpowering.

4. Lingonberry Jam

For a traditional Swedish touch—its tartness balances the creamy sauce.

5. Roasted Carrots

Adds color, sweetness, and a slightly earthy flavor to the plate.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until hot throughout. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing: Assemble and freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. You can also freeze individual portions after baking.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~540
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Cholesterol: 110mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it fully, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use store-bought frozen meatballs?

Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and brown them first for best results.

Is there a lighter version of this dish?

You can substitute turkey meatballs, half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and use less butter in the sauce.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free pasta and replace flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

What’s the best baking dish to use?

A 9×13-inch ceramic or glass baking dish works great. Just make sure it’s deep enough to hold everything comfortably.

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Conclusion

Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is a cozy, crowd-pleasing twist on a classic comfort food. It delivers all the creamy, savory flavor of traditional Swedish meatballs but in an easy, all-in-one bake that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With make-ahead and freezer options, this dish is as practical as it is delicious. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a new go-to favorite at your dinner table.

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