Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, this Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is exactly what you need. Combining tender, savory meatballs, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, rich sauce, this dish brings the comfort of traditional Swedish meatballs together with the ease of a casserole. Whether you're preparing dinner for the family or entertaining guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Read on for a step-by-step guide to making this delicious, comforting pasta bake.

this Recipe

---

What is Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake?

A Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is a delicious twist on the classic Swedish meatballs, typically served with creamy gravy over noodles or mashed potatoes. In this recipe, the meatballs are baked with pasta and a velvety sauce made from broth, sour cream, and heavy cream, creating a casserole-like dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. The pasta soaks up the rich sauce, and the meatballs provide a savory, flavorful bite in every forkful. Plus, it’s all baked together in one dish, making it a perfect option for a simple, comforting meal.

---

Ingredients List for Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

To create this comforting Swedish meatball pasta bake, you'll need a variety of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s the complete list:

For the Meatballs:

• Ground Beef or Pork: You can use a mix of beef and pork, or just one type of ground meat, depending on your preference.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together and adds texture.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
• Onion: Finely chopped for extra flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth to the meatballs.
• Allspice and Nutmeg: Traditional Swedish meatball seasonings for that warm, signature flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the meatballs.

For the Pasta Bake:

• Pasta: Use short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli that can hold the sauce well.
• Butter: Used to sauté the onions and garlic for the sauce.
• Flour: Helps thicken the creamy sauce.
• Beef Broth: Adds richness to the sauce and enhances the meatball flavor.
• Heavy Cream: For a rich, creamy texture in the sauce.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the sauce.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides a subtle tangy kick that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Mozzarella or Gruyere Cheese (Optional): For a cheesy topping.

---

Ingredients List for Toppings and Garnishes:

Though optional, these toppings can add a lovely finishing touch to your dish:

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: For an extra layer of richness and flavor.

---

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is quite versatile, so you can make adjustments to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Different Proteins: You can substitute the ground beef or pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs and gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of the dish.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the pasta bake for extra nutrients and texture.
• Cheesy Option: For a cheesy twist, stir in shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) into the sauce, or sprinkle cheese on top before baking for a golden, bubbly finish.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake from scratch:

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or pork), breadcrumbs, egg, minced onion, garlic, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, which can make the meatballs tough.

Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). Set them aside on a plate or baking sheet.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. You don’t need to cook them through completely since they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the meatballs are browning, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet used to brown the meatballs, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Slowly whisk in the beef broth, followed by the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken. Stir in the Dijon mustard and sour cream, and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken further. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Pasta Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large mixing bowl or directly in your casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta and meatballs. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and gently stir to coat everything evenly. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish.

If you like, sprinkle mozzarella or Gruyere cheese over the top for a cheesy finish.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and golden (if you’ve added cheese).

Step 7: Let Cool and Serve

Remove the Swedish meatball pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

---

How to Cook Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Make the meatballs by mixing ground meat with seasonings, then form into small balls.
2. Brown the meatballs in a skillet until they’re golden on all sides.
3. Cook the pasta until al dente and drain.
4. Make the creamy sauce with onions, garlic, broth, cream, sour cream, and mustard.
5. Combine the pasta, meatballs, and sauce in a baking dish, top with cheese if desired.
6. Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and serve with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake turns out perfect every time, keep these common mistakes in mind:

• Overcooking the Meatballs: Be careful not to overcook the meatballs in the skillet. They should be browned on the outside but still slightly undercooked in the center, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
• Undercooking the Pasta: Don’t cook the pasta fully during the boiling stage. It should be al dente (firm to the bite) so that it doesn’t get mushy during baking.
• Not Thickening the Sauce Enough: Make sure to let the sauce simmer long enough to thicken properly. A runny sauce will result in a less cohesive dish.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here are some tips for serving and presenting your Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake:

How to Serve Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

• As a Main Course: Serve this pasta bake as the main course with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
• Family-Style: Present the bake family-style by placing the baking dish in the center of the table and allowing everyone to help themselves.
• For Potlucks: This dish is a great option for potlucks or large gatherings, as it can be made ahead of time and easily transported.

Presentation Ideas for Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or dill on top for a vibrant pop of color.
• Serve in individual bowls with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese.
• Pair with a side of sautéed vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.

---

Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time by assembling the pasta, meatballs, and sauce in the baking dish, then refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
• Freezing: This pasta bake freezes beautifully. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or gluten-free flour.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought frozen meatballs. Just thaw them before adding them to the dish and proceed with the recipe as instructed.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will last for 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy meal.

What can I serve with this pasta bake?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.

---

Conclusion

This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, flavorful meatballs with perfectly cooked pasta and a creamy, savory sauce. It’s the perfect dish to make when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, and it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight family meal, or looking for a make-ahead dish for meal prep, this recipe checks all the boxes. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Print