Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

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💛 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
  • ÂĽ cup onion, finely minced
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp allspice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ÂĽ 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
  • ÂĽ 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.

đź’ˇ Tips & Variations

  • Use frozen or store-bought meatballs to save time — the sauce makes them taste homemade!
  • Add sautĂ©ed 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.