- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (optional, for authentic Swedish flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Casserole:
- 8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Meatballs
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter) and set aside.
3. Cook the Meatballs
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 8–10 minutes). Remove the meatballs and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring the mixture to a simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and dried dill (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked egg noodles, meatballs, and sauce. Stir gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and melted.
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra browning, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy every bite of this creamy, cheesy, and indulgent Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake!
- Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with a side of steamed veggies or a crisp salad for a complete dinner.
Tips for Success
- Use Pre-Made Meatballs: Save time by using store-bought frozen meatballs if you’re short on prep time.
- Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake combines the savory richness of tender meatballs with the creamy, indulgent flavors of a cheesy baked pasta casserole into a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced cooking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something hearty and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify dinner prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this dish might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
