Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
Indulge in a fusion of flavors with this delightful Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake — a comforting, hearty meal that brings together the best of two worlds: creamy, savory Swedish meatballs and a rich, cheesy pasta bake. This dish captures all the warmth of traditional Scandinavian comfort food while adding the satisfying heartiness of baked pasta. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of juicy meatballs, tender noodles, and gooey melted cheese — all wrapped in a luscious, flavorful sauce.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner, a weekend treat, or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next family gathering, this Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is bound to impress. It’s rich, filling, and irresistibly creamy — the ultimate comfort food that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound | Gives the meatballs hearty, beefy flavor. |
| Ground pork | ½ pound | Adds juiciness and richness to the mix. |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Helps bind the mixture and retain moisture. |
| Milk | ½ cup | Softens the breadcrumbs for a tender texture. |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Adds umami flavor and richness. |
| Onion, finely chopped | ¼ cup | Provides subtle sweetness and aroma. |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | Enhances depth of flavor. |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Gives a Mediterranean hint to balance the creamy sauce. |
| Nutmeg | ½ teaspoon | Classic in Swedish meatballs for a warm note. |
| Salt | To taste | Brings out the flavors. |
| Black pepper | To taste | Adds a mild, spicy kick. |
For the Pasta and Sauce:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni) | 12 oz | Provides structure for the bake. |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | Used for sautéing and to keep pasta from sticking. |
| Marinara sauce | 3 cups | The rich tomato base that ties everything together. |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup | Adds creaminess to balance the tomato acidity. |
| Beef broth | ½ cup | Deepens flavor and moisture. |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 2 cups | Makes the topping gooey and golden. |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons | For garnish and freshness. |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — do not overmix, or the meatballs may become dense. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and set them on a tray.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 8–10 minutes total. They don’t need to be fully cooked through, as they’ll finish baking later. Remove and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the meatballs, add marinara sauce, beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meatballs. Pour the creamy tomato sauce over and toss to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta Bake
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t overbake — the pasta will continue cooking as it rests.
- Add extra cheese between layers for a more indulgent texture.
- To save time, use pre-cooked frozen meatballs — just thaw before baking.
- Want more creaminess? Replace half of the marinara with Alfredo sauce.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- A crisp green salad with Italian dressing
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli
- A glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or in the microwave until hot. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole — wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 50–55 minutes, covered with foil.
Variations You Can Try
- Turkey Version: Swap beef and pork for ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Style: Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth instead of beef.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix ricotta or cream cheese into the pasta before baking.
- Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage.
Final Thoughts
The Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort dish — rich, creamy, and full of love in every layer. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that combines homestyle meatballs with a flavorful pasta bake, perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again — because few dishes satisfy the soul quite like this one.
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