This Easy Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake combines tender meatballs with creamy noodles, all baked to perfection. It’s a cozy dish that’s sure to make your belly happy!
Whenever I make this, the smell fills my kitchen and brings everyone running. Who can resist a warm, cheesy dish? I love throwing in some veggies for extra crunch and color!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Swedish Meatballs: You can use frozen meatballs for convenience or make your own. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken meatballs are great substitutes.
Egg Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, you can swap them for wide pasta, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb version!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, whole milk or half-and-half can work well. If you’re dairy-free, almond milk or coconut cream can be used, though the flavor will change a bit.
Cheese: Swiss and mozzarella are classic choices, but feel free to use cheddar or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile. Vegan cheese is a good alternative for dairy-free diets.
How Do You Make a Smooth Sauce Without Clumps?
To ensure a smooth sauce, the roux (butter plus flour) is key. Whisk it constantly while cooking to remove lumps. When adding liquids, do so gradually:
- Start with the beef broth: Pour slowly while whisking. This prevents clumps from forming.
- Then, add the heavy cream following the same method. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Remember, patience is essential! If you notice any lumps, just keep whisking—most will disappear with enough mixing.
Easy Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Bake:
- 1 pound (450g) frozen or homemade Swedish meatballs
- 8 ounces (225g) egg noodles or wide pasta noodles
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and roughly 25-30 minutes to bake, with a total time of around 45 minutes. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bake cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Meatballs:
If you’re using frozen meatballs, heat them based on the package instructions, or pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes so they warm through while you prepare the rest.
4. Make the Sauce:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux (it should bubble a little). Then, slowly add in the beef broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. This will help thicken the sauce, which should take about 5 minutes.
5. Season the Sauce:
Stir in the Dijon mustard (if you like a bit of tang), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust any seasonings if needed.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked noodles and warmed meatballs into the sauce and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
7. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Pour the noodle and meatball mixture into a greased baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top.
8. Bake:
Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is the best part—let the kitchen fill with a delicious aroma!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
Dig into your delicious Easy Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake and enjoy a plateful of comfort! Yum!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Meatballs in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option. Just ensure they are cooked through before combining them with the noodles and sauce.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth. Just keep in mind that it will slightly alter the taste of the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce’s consistency!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, it may require a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s still cold.
