Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
**Introduction**
Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is a warm, comforting dish that combines the creamy, savory flavors of traditional Swedish meatballs with hearty pasta and melted cheese. It’s a perfect family meal for cold evenings — rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. This dish brings together tender meatballs, buttery noodles, and a luscious gravy-style sauce baked to golden perfection.
**Ingredients**
**For the Meatballs:**
* 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
* ½ lb (225 g) ground pork
* ½ cup breadcrumbs
* 1 small onion, finely minced
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 large egg
* ¼ cup milk
* ½ tsp ground allspice
* ½ tsp ground nutmeg
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 2 tbsp butter (for frying)
**For the Sauce:**
* 4 tbsp butter
* 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
* 3 cups beef broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tsp Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper, to taste
**For the Pasta Bake:**
* 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella
* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Meatballs:**
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs.
2. **Cook the Meatballs:**
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. **Make the Sauce:**
In the same skillet, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Slowly add beef broth while whisking, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
Simmer until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
4. **Cook the Pasta:**
Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. **Assemble the Bake:**
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, meatballs, and sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. **Bake:**
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
7. **Serve:**
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
**History**
Swedish meatballs, known as *köttbullar* in Sweden, date back to the 18th century and are said to have been inspired by Turkish recipes brought back by King Charles XII. Traditionally served with creamy gravy, lingonberry sauce, and mashed potatoes, this modern pasta bake variation brings an Italian twist to a Scandinavian favorite.
**Benefits**
* High in protein from beef and pork
* Provides essential minerals like iron and zinc
* Creamy sauce offers calcium and energy
* Comforting and satisfying meal ideal for family gatherings
**Formation**
This recipe beautifully combines European culinary traditions — Swedish meatballs with Italian pasta — creating a rich, creamy fusion dish that feels both rustic and elegant.
**Nutrition (per serving, approx.)**
Calories: 620
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 780 mg
**Lovers of This Dish**
This recipe is adored by families, students, and comfort food enthusiasts worldwide. It’s especially loved by those who enjoy hearty, creamy bakes that fill the kitchen with irresistible aroma.
**Conclusion**
Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort meal that brings everyone to the table. With its creamy sauce, tender meatballs, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that satisfies both heart and stomach. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekends, it’s a bake that tastes like home.
