This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender meatballs, rich creamy gravy, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. It’s inspired by the traditional Swedish ‘köttbullar’ but takes it up a notch by transforming it into a delightful pasta bake. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
Quick Benefits
This pasta bake is an all-in-one meal that’s comforting, filling, and absolutely delicious. The combination of homemade Swedish meatballs, creamy gravy, and cheesy pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fine dry bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 pound 85% lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces dried bowtie pasta
- 2 1/2 cups lower sodium beef broth
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Lemon wedges for serving
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 7×11-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, lightly beat the egg. Add bread crumbs, onion, milk, salt, nutmeg, allspice, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Add ground beef and combine thoroughly. Shape into meatballs (about 1 1/2 tablespoons each).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs on all sides (about 8 minutes). They will finish cooking in the oven.
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Nestle the browned meatballs atop the cooked pasta.
- In the same skillet, pour in beef broth and bring to a boil while scraping browned bits from the bottom. Add whipping cream and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until slightly thickened (about 6-8 minutes).
- Pour the sauce over meatballs and pasta. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover, sprinkle with Gruyere cheese, and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon before serving.
Health Benefits
This dish provides a good balance of protein from the meatballs and carbohydrates from the pasta, while the Gruyere cheese adds calcium and the dill provides a burst of freshness. The beef broth adds a savory richness without being overly heavy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake hot from the oven, garnished with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon. Pair it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Creative Variations
- Cheesy Twist: Use mozzarella or cheddar instead of Gruyere for a different cheesy flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with vegetarian meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy for a touch of heat.
- Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for an earthy, hearty touch.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality ground beef for flavorful and tender meatballs.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
- Allow the sauce to thicken slightly before pouring it over the pasta and meatballs to ensure a creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Penne or fusilli work great in place of bowtie pasta.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, freeze the baked dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
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