Swedish meatball pasta bake

Here’s a comforting recipe for Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake—tender meatballs, creamy sauce, and pasta baked to cheesy perfection. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

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🍝 Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

Ingredients (serves 4–6)

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or a mix of beef & pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, classic Swedish touch)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit 2–3 minutes to soak.
3. Add ground meat, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until combined.
4. Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on a greased baking sheet.
5. Bake 15–20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.

2. Cook the Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in beef broth, then stir in cream and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Simmer 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Assemble the Pasta Bake

1. In a large baking dish, combine cooked pasta, meatballs, and creamy sauce. Mix gently to coat evenly.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
3. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve

1. Garnish with chopped parsley.
2. Serve warm as a hearty, comforting meal.

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Tips & Variations

• Extra cheesy: Mix cheese into the pasta before topping to make it extra creamy.
• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate; bake when ready.
• Veggie boost: Add peas, spinach, or mushrooms to the pasta before baking.
• Sauce variation: Swap cream with sour cream for a tangier flavor or add a splash of Dijon mustard.

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This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender meatballs—perfect comfort food for any day of the week.

I can also give a quick stovetop version that skips the oven but still gives creamy, cheesy results if you want.

Do you want me to do that?