Swedish Meatball Casserole Recipe

Love the rich, savory flavors of Swedish meatballs but want an easier, crowd-friendly version? Enter the Swedish Meatball Casserole! This recipe combines tender meatballs, creamy sauce, egg noodles, and a cheesy topping all baked to perfection in one dish. It’s hearty, satisfying, and a perfect option for a cozy family dinner or meal prep. Whether you’re familiar with Swedish meatballs or trying them for the first time, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Keep reading for the full recipe, substitutions, and helpful tips!

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What Is Swedish Meatball Casserole?

A Swedish Meatball Casserole is a comforting baked dish that features the beloved flavors of traditional Swedish meatballs but in casserole form. The meatballs are nestled in a rich, creamy sauce (similar to the classic Swedish gravy), combined with egg noodles, and topped with cheese. The casserole is then baked until bubbly and golden, offering a one-dish meal that’s both flavorful and easy to make.

Ingredients List for Swedish Meatball Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting Swedish Meatball Casserole:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ small onion (finely diced)
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
• ¼ cup milk
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning meatballs)

For the Casserole:

• 8 oz egg noodles (about 4 cups cooked)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 ½ cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese (divided)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly, making it easy to whip up this delicious casserole anytime.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this Swedish Meatball Casserole is its flexibility. Here are some options to customize the dish based on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Meat options: Use a mix of beef and pork for more flavor, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Egg noodles alternatives: You can substitute the egg noodles with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. For a low-carb option, use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Cheese options: Mozzarella adds a mild, melty cheese factor, but you can try Swiss, Gouda, or even Parmesan for a deeper flavor.
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese, and replace cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free version.
• Vegetables: Add in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.

These variations allow you to make the dish your own while keeping the traditional Swedish meatball flavors intact.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for making Swedish Meatball Casserole.

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or pork mix), diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, allspice, nutmeg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all the ingredients are combined.

Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. The meatballs don’t need to be cooked all the way through at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

While the meatballs are browning, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente (about 6-7 minutes). Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet where you browned the meatballs, add the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. In the dish, layer the cooked egg noodles, then top with the browned meatballs. Pour the creamy sauce over the meatballs and noodles, making sure everything is well coated. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve hot!

How to Cook Swedish Meatball Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of the process for making this comforting Swedish Meatball Casserole:

1. Make the meatballs: Combine meatball ingredients, form into small balls, and brown in a skillet.
2. Cook the egg noodles until al dente, and drain.
3. Prepare the sauce by simmering cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
4. Assemble the casserole: Layer noodles, meatballs, and sauce in a baking dish, then top with cheese.
5. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Swedish Meatball Casserole:

• Overmixing the meatball mixture: Be gentle when mixing the meatball ingredients. Overworking the meat can result in dense, tough meatballs.
• Overcooking the noodles: Egg noodles cook quickly, so be sure to cook them just until al dente to prevent them from getting too soft once baked.
• Forgetting to season the sauce: Taste the sauce before assembling the casserole. Adjust the salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce as needed for optimal flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Swedish Meatball Casserole is a cozy, family-style dish, but you can still serve it with flair.

How to Serve Swedish Meatball Casserole

Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables like green beans or peas. For a more traditional Swedish pairing, serve with lingonberry jam on the side to add a hint of sweetness.

Presentation Ideas for Swedish Meatball Casserole

• Garnish with parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant, fresh touch.
• Serve in individual portions: For a more polished presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or dish out neatly sliced portions.
• Add a side: Brighten up the dish with a colorful side salad or roasted root vegetables.

Swedish Meatball Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are a few tips to make sure your Swedish Meatball Casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time if cooking straight from the fridge.
• Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble it without baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even broccoli to the casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought meatballs in Swedish Meatball Casserole?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought frozen meatballs. Just be sure to thaw and brown them before adding to the casserole for better flavor and texture.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while egg noodles are traditional, you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells.

3. How long does Swedish Meatball Casserole last in the fridge?
The casserole will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

4. Can I freeze Swedish Meatball Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing.

5. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs and gluten-free noodles to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Swedish Meatball Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender meatballs, creamy sauce, egg noodles, and a cheesy topping into one delicious dish. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with substitutions, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this warm, hearty Swedish Meatball Casserole tonight!

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