When you think of cozy family dinners, the rich aroma of creamy Swedish meatballs mixed with hearty noodles probably comes to mind. This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake takes that beloved flavor profile and transforms it into a baked casserole — layered with tender beef meatballs, silky egg noodles, and a luscious cream sauce, all topped with bubbly Swiss cheese. Perfect for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, this dish is pure comfort on a plate.
🛒 Ingredients Breakdown
For the Meatballs
Ground beef (1 lb): The star of the dish, offering rich, juicy flavor.
Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
Large egg (1, beaten): Helps hold everything together while adding richness.
Onion (½, grated): Adds sweetness and moisture to the meatballs.
Ground nutmeg (¼ tsp): A classic Swedish meatball spice that brings warmth and depth.
Garlic powder (½ tsp): Enhances the savory profile without overpowering.
Kosher salt (1 tsp) & black pepper (½ tsp): Essential for seasoning.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used for browning and flavor.
For the Casserole
Beef broth (1 cup): Forms the savory backbone of the sauce.
Heavy cream (1 pint): Gives the sauce its silky, luxurious texture.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Adds umami and depth.
Egg noodles (2½ cups): The perfect pasta for holding onto creamy sauce.
Swiss cheese (1½ cups, grated): Melts beautifully and adds a nutty, mild flavor.
Kosher salt & black pepper: Season to taste.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds color and freshness.
🥣 Step-by-Step Preparation
- Making the Meatballs
Combine the beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, nutmeg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Gently mix — overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Shape into 1-inch balls for even cooking.
- Browning for Flavor
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the meatballs on all sides until golden brown (5–7 minutes). They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage — the oven will finish the job.
- Preparing the Creamy Base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. This will create the sauce that keeps the noodles moist and flavorful as they bake.
- Assembling the Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch dish. Layer half the noodle mixture, then the meatballs, followed by the rest of the noodles. Sprinkle the Swiss cheese evenly over the top.
- Baking to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. Then uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serving
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley. This helps the sauce set slightly, making serving easier.
🍽 Pro Tips for Best Results
Don’t skip browning: It builds a deeper, richer flavor in the meatballs.
Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Slightly undercook noodles before baking: They’ll finish cooking in the oven and absorb more flavor.
For extra richness: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a subtle tang.
❓ FAQ – Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the covered baking time.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Absolutely. Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Gruyère or mozzarella are great alternatives to Swiss.
Q: How can I make it lighter?
A: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk, and use lean ground turkey instead of beef.
Q: What sides go well with it?
A: A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balance the richness beautifully.
🥄 Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Serve with lingonberry jam for a truly Swedish-inspired touch.
Add a side of buttered peas or green beans for color and freshness.
📜 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 400 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 25g
Fat: 26g
This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is more than just a casserole — it’s a warm, creamy hug in a dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and a touch of Scandinavian tradition in every bite.