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Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs Recipe: A Comforting, Hearty Meal
If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying dinner that combines rich flavors with a cozy, homey feel, Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs is the dish for you. Inspired by the classic Swedish meatball dish, this recipe combines perfectly seasoned meatballs with creamy, cheesy noodles baked to perfection. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s sure to please the entire family!
This dish brings together tender, juicy meatballs in a creamy sauce, complemented by soft, baked noodles. The addition of a savory cheese topping gives the casserole an irresistible golden, bubbly finish. Whether you’re craving comfort food for a family meal, a potluck, or even a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a simple and satisfying choice.
Ingredients:
For the Swedish Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra umami flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)
For the Noodles and Topping:
- 12 oz egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend of your choice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs
To start, in a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, allspice, nutmeg, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can result in tough meatballs.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set them aside.
2. Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, cooking for about 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Stir in the heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Noodles
While you’re preparing the meatballs and sauce, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions, usually for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
5. Combine the Meatballs, Noodles, and Sauce
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked noodles with the creamy sauce until well coated. Add the cooked meatballs and gently stir to combine.
Transfer the meatball and noodle mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan for a cheesy, golden finish.
6. Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. The cheese should form a beautiful, golden crust on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs:
- Make It Ahead: This dish can easily be made ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, allowing an extra 10 minutes of cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Customize the Meatballs: While beef is the traditional choice for Swedish meatballs, you can mix it up with ground pork, turkey, or chicken for a lighter option. For a more flavorful twist, try adding some finely chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the meatball mixture.
- Add Veggies: You can easily incorporate some vegetables into this dish for extra flavor and nutrition. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas would make a great addition to the casserole, and they complement the creamy sauce and meatballs beautifully.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like Mozzarella, Gruyère, or Swiss. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will all pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce and savory meatballs.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce to give the dish a bit of a spicy kick.
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Why You’ll Love This Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs:
- Comforting and Hearty: This dish is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy sauce, tender meatballs, and cheesy noodles make it a filling, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cold nights or family gatherings.
- Versatile: Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner, a weekend meal prep, or a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s also easily adaptable to various dietary needs by using different meats or adding vegetables.
- Rich in Flavor: The Swedish-inspired meatballs and creamy sauce bring a rich, savory flavor to the table, while the addition of cheese gives the casserole a gooey, irresistible finish.
- Easy to Make: This recipe takes just a little bit of effort but delivers a big payoff. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want to prepare a comforting and filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Conclusion
Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs is the perfect dish for those who crave the cozy flavors of a homemade casserole but want to step it up a notch with delicious, savory meatballs. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of heartwarming flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. So why not try this comforting meal for your next dinner? It’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face!
