Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Noodle Bake:

• 12 ounces egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk.
   • Add the ground beef, ground pork, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
   • Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
2. Cook the Noodles:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet used for the meatballs, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly golden.
   • Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, meatballs, and sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
   • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
   • Serve the Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake warm and enjoy!

This hearty and comforting dish combines the rich flavors of Swedish meatballs with creamy noodles, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.