Name: Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Scandinavian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz rotini pasta; 18 oz meatballs (homemade or pre-cooked frozen); 3 tbsp butter; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Comfort food doesn’t get better than a Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake. This dish is cozy, creamy, and the kind of meal that turns any weeknight into something special. Imagine tender meatballs tucked into a bed of pasta and smothered in a creamy, savory sauce, baked until bubbling and golden. It’s every bit as comforting as it sounds.

This recipe brings together the beloved flavors of traditional Swedish meatballs and the heartiness of a baked pasta. The meatballs are juicy and seasoned just right, while the sauce brings in that signature creaminess. It’s easy to prepare, uses pantry staples, and is a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

This bake is all about simplicity meeting indulgence. You get that warm, baked pasta feel but with a twist of Scandinavian flavor. It’s perfect for meal prepping, family gatherings, or just when you’re in the mood for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner.

The flavors meld beautifully in the oven, and it reheats like a dream. Plus, it’s an easy way to enjoy the magic of Swedish meatballs without standing over the stove. The cream sauce and melted cheese make this dish so satisfying.

Can I Use Frozen Meatballs or Should I Make Them Fresh?

Both work beautifully, and it really depends on your time. If you have a favorite homemade meatball recipe, go for it. Fresh meatballs bring more texture and flavor. But if you’re in a pinch, good-quality frozen meatballs can save you time and still deliver great taste. Just be sure to cook them through before baking.

Ingredients for the Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

To build the layers of flavor in this comforting casserole, you’ll need some pantry basics and a few creamy staples. Everything comes together into a rich, satisfying bite.

Pasta: Use rotini, penne, or any pasta that holds sauce well.
Meatballs: Homemade or frozen, they are the star of the bake.
Butter: Adds richness and is used to make the roux for the sauce.
Flour: Helps thicken the creamy gravy.
Beef broth: Gives the sauce a savory base with depth.
Heavy cream: For that smooth, luxurious sauce texture.
Sour cream: Adds tang and extra creaminess.
Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami and ties the sauce together.
Garlic powder: For a hint of mellow, savory flavor.
Nutmeg: A classic Swedish meatball touch that adds warmth.
Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning.
Shredded mozzarella: Melts beautifully and adds that gooey top.
Parsley: For a fresh, green garnish.

How To Make the Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside. It will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs

If you’re using homemade meatballs, shape and cook them until browned and cooked through. If using frozen, cook according to package directions and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth, then stir in the cream, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meatballs with most of the sauce. Stir until well coated. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and drizzle the remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.

Step 5: Bake and Garnish

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbling and golden on top. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Serving and Storing Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

This bake feeds about 6 hungry people, making it a wonderful option for a family dinner or small gathering. Serve it hot, straight from the oven with a sprinkle of parsley on top. If you’re prepping ahead, you can assemble everything and refrigerate it, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. Just allow a few extra minutes of baking time.

Leftovers store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and creamy again.

What to Serve With Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake?

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is the ultimate sidekick to soak up every drop of that creamy sauce.

Steamed Green Beans

A simple veggie side brings freshness and balances the richness of the pasta bake.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their nutty, caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs.

Pickled Cucumbers

In classic Swedish fashion, serve some quick-pickled cucumbers to add tang.

Cranberry Sauce

A spoonful of tart cranberry sauce is an unexpected yet delightful nod to traditional Swedish accompaniments.

Lingonberry Jam

For true Scandinavian flair, a touch of sweet lingonberry alongside adds a lovely contrast.

Sparkling Apple Cider

Serve a glass for a festive, non-alcoholic pairing.

Want More Casserole Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake, you might enjoy these other comforting, flavor-packed recipes:

No Peek Chicken Casserole when you want maximum ease with minimal effort.
Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole for a hearty weeknight favorite.
Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl if you’re craving meatballs with a fresh, healthy twist.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for something cheesy and veggie-packed.
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake to finish dinner on a sweet note.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can always find it when the craving hits.

Let me know how your Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake turned out! Did you use homemade meatballs or your go-to frozen brand? Maybe you added a little extra cheese?

I always love hearing your ideas and tweaks. Drop a comment below and let’s share cooking inspiration.

Explore more family-friendly recipes and weeknight favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and never run out of comfort food ideas.

Conclusion

This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is everything comfort food should be: creamy, savory, cheesy, and full of nostalgia. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a meal prep go-to, or a cozy Sunday supper, it delivers every time. It’s simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and always crowd-pleasing.