Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty dish, Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is a delightful option. This casserole combines tender meatballs with creamy sauce and egg noodles, topped with melted Swiss cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, bringing warmth and flavor to the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Meatballs:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Casserole:
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Yield: 6 servings
Enjoy your homemade Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a plate.
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil or a knob of butter. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbling. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Add the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
Cook the Noodles:
While preparing the sauce, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, meatballs, and sauce, ensuring the noodles and meatballs are well coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top.
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Meatball Consistency:
Ensure not to overmix the meatball mixture to maintain a tender texture.
Cooking Meatballs:
If you prefer, you can bake the meatballs instead of frying them for a healthier option. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Customizing Sauce:
Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the sauce to your liking, adding herbs or spices as desired.
Noodle Alternatives:
Other types of pasta can be used if you prefer, but cooking time may vary based on shape and thickness.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Mixing Meatballs
Carefully combine the meatball ingredients until just mixed. Avoid overmixing to ensure tenderness.
Cooking Meatballs
Brown meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, turning to cook evenly until no longer pink inside.
Making a Roux
Melt butter in a skillet, whisk in flour, and cook until golden for a thickener in your sauce.
Deglazing the Pan
After making the roux, add beef broth while scraping up browned bits from the skillet to enhance flavor.
Cooking Noodles
Boil egg noodles until al dente according to package instructions; do not overcook, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
Assembling the Casserole
Combine cooked noodles, meatballs, and sauce in a bowl, ensuring everything is well coated before transferring to a baking dish.
Baking
Bake the assembled casserole in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative, but adjust seasoning as needed.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and an appropriate gluten-free flour for the roux.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase baking time if cooking from cold.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
You can use other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, but Swiss cheese adds a distinctive flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
The Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of Swedish meatballs with the creaminess of a delicious sauce and the heartiness of egg noodles. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. The addition of Swiss cheese on top creates a delightful golden crust, enhancing both the texture and taste of the meal. Enjoy this delightful bake with a side of vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
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