Name: Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 tsp allspice; 1 tsp nutmeg; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 lb pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake bubbling away in the oven. This hearty dish combines tender meatballs, al dente pasta, and a creamy, savory sauce – a true crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks.

I first created this recipe after a trip to a Swedish bistro that left me craving those perfectly spiced meatballs. Melding them with pasta and baking it all together was a stroke of inspiration that’s now a staple in my home. Let me walk you through this irresistible dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Why You'll Love This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

Get ready to discover your new go-to comfort food! This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake has so much going for it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it.

First, it's a perfect weeknight dinner option. The entire dish comes together in under an hour, with simple steps that even novice cooks can master.

Next, the creamy sauce is an absolute dream. Infused with warm spices like nutmeg and allspice, it transforms into a luscious blanket that coats the pasta and meatballs perfectly.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can use store-bought meatballs to save time or whip up a homemade batch if you’re feeling ambitious. Swap the pasta shape or add veggies to make it your own.

Finally, it’s make-ahead friendly! Assemble it the night before, and you’re just a quick bake away from dinner the next day. Now let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying.

Meatballs: Whether you use frozen or homemade, the meatballs are the heart of this recipe. If you’re making them from scratch, go for a mix of ground beef and pork to keep them tender and juicy.
Pasta: Penne or rigatoni work best here. Their tubular shapes hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Cream Sauce: A blend of beef broth, heavy cream, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce creates a rich, velvety base. Don’t skip the nutmeg and allspice – they’re the secret to authentic Swedish flavors.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully for that gooey topping, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty kick.
Breadcrumbs (optional): A light sprinkle on top creates a golden, crispy crust that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling.

You’ll also need a large baking dish and a skillet for the stovetop prep.

How To Make This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

Creating this dish is easier than you might think, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Prepare the Meatballs and Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the pasta. While the pasta cooks, prepare your meatballs. If using frozen meatballs, heat them in a skillet until browned. For homemade, sear them until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt a pat of butter over medium heat. Add a sprinkle of flour and whisk until smooth to create a roux. Gradually add beef broth, followed by heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, nutmeg, and allspice for that signature Swedish flavor.
Combine and Assemble
Drain the pasta and mix it with the creamy sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Gently fold in the meatballs, being careful not to break them. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top and Bake
Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If desired, add a layer of breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

The result? A perfectly creamy, cheesy bake that’s packed with flavor and texture.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it keeps. Whether you’re planning ahead or storing leftovers, it’s a breeze to manage.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Assemble the dish without baking and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Individual Portions: Divide into smaller containers for quick, single-serve meals – perfect for lunch on busy days.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the meatballs for plant-based alternatives or roasted vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs, and make the roux with a gluten-free flour blend.
Add Veggies: Stir in steamed peas, sautéed spinach, or roasted carrots for a pop of color and nutrition.
Different Cheese: Try Gruyère or Fontina for a unique twist on the cheesy topping.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick of heat.

Feel free to experiment – there’s no wrong way to enjoy this comforting classic.

This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a casserole dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or savoring leftovers throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy!