Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

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A hearty, comforting dinner that brings together the richness of Swedish meatballs and the creaminess of a baked pasta casserole, this Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is everything you want in a cozy meal. Imagine juicy homemade meatballs nestled in creamy sauce, swirled into tender egg noodles, then baked to golden perfection. Every bite is rich with flavor and texture, making it a true family favorite.

Whether you’re making this dish for a weeknight dinner or prepping it ahead for a cozy gathering, it’s sure to please. The creamy gravy-soaked pasta, perfectly seasoned meatballs, and that irresistible browned cheesy top come together in one unforgettable baked dish.

Why You’ll Love This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

• It combines the best of two classics: Swedish meatballs and pasta bake.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers.
• Comforting, cozy, and packed with protein.
• Feeds a family of 6 and is easily doubled.
• Bakes in one dish for easy cleanup.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Wide egg noodles are the traditional and best choice for this bake. Their slightly chewy texture holds up well in the creamy sauce and wraps beautifully around the meatballs. You can substitute with rotini or fusilli in a pinch, but avoid thin pasta types like spaghetti, which can become mushy in the bake.

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Ingredients for the Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

Ground beef – The base for juicy, tender meatballs.

Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meatballs and add lightness.

Egg – Keeps the meatballs from falling apart.

Yellow onion – Adds sweet aromatic flavor.

Garlic – Enhances the meatball and sauce flavor.

Allspice and nutmeg – Essential for that classic Swedish meatball warmth.

Salt & black pepper – For balanced seasoning.

Butter – Used in the gravy base for richness.

All-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce.

Beef broth – Forms the main body of the creamy gravy.

Sour cream – Adds tang and creamy body to the sauce.

Heavy cream – Makes the sauce ultra-luxurious.

Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the umami flavor.

Parmesan cheese – For salty, cheesy flavor in the sauce and topping.

Wide egg noodles – The perfect pasta to catch the creamy sauce.

Chopped parsley – For a fresh and colorful garnish.

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How To Make the Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 beaten egg, 1/2 small yellow onion (finely grated), 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 tsp allspice, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix gently and roll into 16 small meatballs. Sear in a skillet with 1 tbsp butter over medium heat until browned on all sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Noodles

Cook 8 oz wide egg noodles in salted water just until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, melt 4 tbsp butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in 2 1/2 cups beef broth until smooth. Simmer until thickened, then stir in 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer 2 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, toss cooked noodles with 2/3 of the gravy. Nestle meatballs over the noodles and pour remaining sauce on top. Sprinkle with another 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

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How to Serve This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

This dish serves 6 people generously. Serve it hot out of the oven, paired with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a full meal. A slice of crusty bread on the side makes it even more comforting.

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How to Store Leftovers

Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, store-bought frozen Swedish-style meatballs can save time. Just brown them slightly before adding to the bake.

Can I make this dish ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

Is there a lighter version of the sauce?
You can use whole milk in place of heavy cream and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

What pasta works if I don’t have egg noodles?
Rotini, bowtie, or fusilli are decent substitutes. Avoid thin pasta shapes.

Can I add vegetables to the bake?
Yes! Sauteed mushrooms, peas, or even spinach would work well in the mix.

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Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If you love this cozy bake, you’ll definitely want to try:

• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake
• Runza Casserole
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
• Beef and Potato Casserole

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you stick with the classic or add some veggie twists? I love hearing your ideas.

You can also find more comfort food dinners and daily recipe inspiration on my Pinterest at Life With Livia.

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