Easy Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake Recipe

Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

Rich, creamy, and deeply comforting, this Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is the ultimate comfort-food casserole. It combines tender, juicy Swedish-style meatballs with perfectly cooked egg noodles, all wrapped in a luxurious cream sauce that bakes to golden, bubbling perfection. This dish delivers the nostalgic flavor of classic Swedish meatballs with the ease and convenience of a modern baked meal.

What makes this recipe irresistible is its balance. The meatballs are delicately seasoned with nutmeg, the noodles soak up every drop of sauce, and the final bake creates a cohesive, crave-worthy dish that feels indulgent without being overwhelming. It is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd with confidence.

Ingredients and Their Roles

Meatball Ingredients

Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Used to brown the meatballs evenly and enhance flavor.
Ground Beef (1 lb) – The hearty base providing rich, savory depth.
Large Egg, beaten (1) – Binds the mixture and keeps meatballs tender.
Breadcrumbs (½ cup) – Absorb moisture for soft, juicy texture.
Onion, finely grated (½) – Adds sweetness and moisture without chunks.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp) – Enhances savory notes subtly.
Ground Nutmeg (¼ tsp) – Classic Swedish flavor that adds warmth.
Kosher Salt (1 tsp) – Elevates all ingredients.
Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Balances richness with mild heat.

Noodle Bake Ingredients

Egg Noodles (12 oz) – Soft yet sturdy, perfect for creamy sauces.
Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp) – Creates a rich sauce base.
All-Purpose Flour (3 tbsp) – Thickens the sauce smoothly.
Beef Broth (2 cups) – Adds depth and savory balance.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Provides signature Swedish creaminess.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp) – Adds umami and complexity.
Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) – Cuts richness and enhances flavor.
Shredded Gruyère or Mozzarella (1½ cups) – Melts into a golden topping.
Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds freshness and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make Meatballs

Combine all meatball ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Shape into equal-sized meatballs.

Step 3: Brown Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Noodles

Boil noodles until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce

Melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add broth. Stir in cream, Worcestershire, and Dijon. Simmer until thick.

Step 6: Assemble

Combine noodles, meatballs, and sauce in baking dish. Top with cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is loved for its comforting flavor, simple preparation, and crowd-pleasing results. It transforms a classic dish into an easy, satisfying casserole.

Pro Tips

Do not overmix meatballs.
Undercook noodles slightly.
Use Gruyère for authentic flavor.
Let rest before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.

Final Thoughts

This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. Creamy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, it is a comfort-food classic designed to outperform and outshine competing recipes.