Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs

 Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs: A Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to hearty comfort food, few dishes rival the rich, creamy goodness of Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs. This recipe blends tender meatballs with savory noodles, all enveloped in a velvety sauce that’s baked to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a cozy meal, this dish delivers irresistible flavor and satisfying texture every time.

The magic of this recipe lies in its balance — the creamy sauce coats the noodles beautifully, while the meatballs provide a rich, spiced bite that’s hard to resist. With minimal prep and a straightforward method, this is a must-try for home cooks of all skill levels.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef – Provides the rich, savory base for the meatballs.

½ lb ground pork – Adds tenderness and enhances flavor.

½ cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and retain moisture.

¼ cup milk – Ensures the meatballs stay soft and juicy.

1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent.

1 tsp garlic powder – Infuses the meatballs with a robust, savory kick.

1 tsp allspice – A key Swedish seasoning that adds warmth and depth.

1 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.

½ tsp black pepper – Balances the richness with a touch of spice.

2 tbsp butter (for browning) – Adds flavor and promotes a golden crust.

For the Sauce:

3 tbsp butter – Forms the rich base for the roux.

3 tbsp all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce to achieve that creamy texture.

2 cups beef broth – Delivers savory depth and richness.

1 cup heavy cream – Provides luxurious creaminess.

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and tangy complexity.

1 tsp Dijon mustard – Lends a subtle kick that enhances the sauce.

Salt and pepper to taste – Ensures perfect seasoning.

For the Noodles and Assembly:

12 oz egg noodles – Ideal for their soft texture and ability to soak up the sauce.

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into a gooey, golden topping.

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, nutty finish.

Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Brightens the dish with color and freshness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined — avoid overworking the meat.

2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning them gently to ensure an even crust. Transfer them to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the meatballs, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

3. Gradually pour in beef broth, whisking constantly to create a smooth mixture.

4. Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened and silky.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked egg noodles with the prepared sauce.

3. Nestle the browned meatballs into the noodles.

4. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

1. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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Why This Recipe is Loved

Perfect Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and rich — this dish checks every comfort food box.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this meal.

Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making this a fantastic make-ahead dish.

Simple Yet Impressive: Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs

✔️ Don’t overwork the meatball mixture — this keeps them tender.

✔️ Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.

✔️ Toast your breadcrumbs before mixing for an extra layer of flavor.

✔️ Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help the sauce thicken and set.

✔️ Add a sprinkle of nutmeg to the sauce for a traditional Swedish touch.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this comforting casserole with:

Garlic bread for a crispy contrast.

Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a vibrant side.

A simple cucumber salad with dill for a refreshing balance.

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Final Thoughts

This Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its creamy sauce, tender meatballs, and perfectly baked noodles, this dish combines rich flavors with simple preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight

 or a festive gathering, this casserole promises to become a family favorite.

Give it a try, and you'll see why it's the ultimate comfort food you'll crave again and again!