Creamy Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake: Your Go-To Comfort Dish
Are you on the hunt for a cozy recipe that brings together classic flavors and a modern twist? Look no further! This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings with friends and family. Why stress about dinner when you can whip up this satisfying dish in no time? Let’s dive into how to create this hearty, creamy delight that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
This recipe is a game-changer. Not only does it come together in under an hour, but it’s also an all-in-one meal, meaning less mess and fewer dishes! Plus, who can resist pasta combined with tender meatballs smothered in a creamy sauce? It’s the ultimate comfort food, appealing to those cozy nights in and family dinners alike. Trust me, your kitchen will smell like heaven as it bakes!
Ingredients for Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
Before we roll up our sleeves and get cooking, here’s what you’ll need:
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For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Pasta Bake:
- 3 cups pasta (penne or fusilli works great)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup frozen peas (because greens make everything better!)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Steps to Create Your Pasta Bake
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your dish will be ready to go as soon as it’s assembled!
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Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
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Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and fry the meatballs until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 7-10 minutes. They don’t need to be cooked through yet since they’ll finish baking in the oven. Transfer them to a plate once done.
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Cook the Pasta: In the same skillet, add your pasta along with the beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce the heat. Add in the frozen peas and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
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Combine: Once the pasta is cooked, gently fold in the meatballs. Transfer everything to a baking dish and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.
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Bake: Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma wafting from your kitchen will make you feel like a superstar chef!
Cooking Tips to Elevate Your Dish
- No Time to Cook Meatballs? Store-bought meatballs work in a pinch! Just toss them in with your pasta and sauce, and you can save a few precious minutes.
- Make Ahead: This dish can easily be assembled ahead of time. Just cover the baking dish and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Perfect for those days when you feel like a superhero for being so organized!
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to throw in any veggies you have on hand, such as spinach or bell peppers. A little extra nutrition never hurt anyone!
A Personal Touch
This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake became my family’s absolute favorite after my kids devoured it at a potluck. I remember thinking, “What does it take to impress these discerning little critics?” But with creamy, cheesy goodness like this, impressing them was effortless. They even helped with the prep, turning it into a mini family event!
FAQs about Your Pasta Bake
Can I substitute ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works as a lighter option, or even a plant-based substitute for a veggie twist.
How can I store leftovers?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready for more.
What can I serve on the side?
Pair it with a simple green salad to balance the creamy richness of the bake. Add a tangy vinaigrette, and you’re all set!
This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is a delightful blend of comfort and creativity, making it a fabulous addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or planning a weekend feast, this dish guarantees smiles all around. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s cook up some joy!
For other comforting recipes that make mealtime a breeze, check out my Weeknight Wonders and Delicious Family Favorites.
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"Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is the perfect recipe for busy nights. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal. Try it today!"
Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated and roll into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and fry the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked as they’ll finish baking in the oven. Transfer to a plate once done.
- In the same skillet, add pasta, beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Add in the frozen peas and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.
- Gently fold the meatballs into the cooked pasta mixture. Transfer everything to a baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.