Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the best of two comfort classics: Swedish meatballs and baked pasta!
• Creamy, cheesy, and full of savory flavor.
• Easy to prep ahead — perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinner.
• Family-approved and freezer-friendly!

🍝 Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup onion, finely minced
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp allspice
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or egg noodles work great)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

🔪 How to Make It

1. Make the meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, mix all the meatball ingredients until combined.
   • Roll into small balls (about 1 inch) and place on a lined baking sheet.
   • Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
2. Cook the pasta:
   • Boil pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
3. Make the sauce:
   • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
   • Gradually add beef broth, whisking until smooth.
   • Stir in cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
   • Simmer for 3–5 minutes, until thick and creamy.
4. Combine and assemble:
   • Toss the cooked pasta and meatballs into the sauce, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
   • Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Bake:
   • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

💡 Tips & Variations

• Use frozen or store-bought meatballs to save time — the sauce makes them taste homemade!
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and flavor.
• Want more cheesiness? Stir a handful of shredded cheese directly into the sauce before baking.
• Make ahead: Assemble the whole dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
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