Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for added umami flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Baked Noodles:

• 8 ounces egg noodles (or any pasta you prefer)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Swedish Meatballs

1. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, allspice, salt, and white pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Form the meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
3. Cook the meatballs: In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Make the roux: In the same skillet you used for the meatballs, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
2. Add the broth and cream: Gradually add the broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then pour in the heavy cream and continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickens slightly, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Season the sauce: Stir in soy sauce, and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little extra richness, you can add a splash more cream or a bit more butter.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

1. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Combine meatballs and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meatballs with the creamy sauce. Stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.
2. Add the noodles: Add the drained egg noodles to the meatball and sauce mixture. Stir gently to combine, making sure the noodles are well coated in the sauce.
3. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the noodle and meatball mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
4. Top with cheese (optional): For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination) over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon generous portions onto plates and garnish with chopped parsley or fresh herbs for a pop of color.
2. Pair it: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.

Why You’ll Love Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs

1. Comforting and Hearty: With the creamy sauce, tender meatballs, and satisfying noodles, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. It’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a cold evening or to share with family and friends.
2. Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The creamy sauce made with beef broth and heavy cream is rich and indulgent, with a savory depth of flavor enhanced by the soy sauce and spices. It complements the Swedish meatballs beautifully.
3. One-Dish Meal: This recipe combines everything into one casserole, making it easy to prepare and clean up. It’s an excellent choice for a busy weeknight meal or a casual family dinner.
4. Kid-Friendly: The flavors are simple yet satisfying, making it a great dish for kids. The combination of meatballs, noodles, and creamy sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
5. Make-Ahead and Leftovers: This dish is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and assemble the casserole when you’re ready to bake it. Leftovers also reheat wonderfully, making it a great option for lunch the next day.

Tips for Perfect Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the meatballs: Browning the meatballs in batches helps ensure that they cook evenly and develop a nice sear on all sides.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the meatballs to ensure it has the right balance of salt and pepper. If you want a little more richness, you can stir in extra cream or a touch of mustard.
• Add vegetables: To make this dish a little more nutritious, you can add sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach, to the sauce mixture before baking. These will add extra flavor and texture.
• Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, like penne, rotini, or fusilli, if you prefer a different noodle shape.

Conclusion

Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs is the perfect combination of rich, savory flavors, creamy sauce, and tender meatballs. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, offering both comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a special gathering, or just need a hearty meal, this recipe delivers a truly indulgent and delicious experience.

With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, Baked Noodles with Swedish Meatballs is a dish that’s as accessible as it is mouthwatering. Try it today, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this irresistible casserole.