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Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

This Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake combines classic köttbullar with creamy gravy, tender bowtie pasta, and melted Gruyere cheese for a comforting, flavorful dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this bake brings together rich, savory flavors with a touch of fresh dill and a hint of lemon for balance.

  • Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

Scale

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a medium bowl, lightly beat the egg. Stir in bread crumbs, onion, milk, salt, nutmeg, allspice, and cayenne pepper. Mix in the ground beef and shape into 1 1/2 tablespoon-sized meatballs.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, about 8 minutes. They will finish cooking in the oven.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and place it in a greased 7×11-inch baking dish.
  4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, bring beef broth to a boil, scraping up browned bits. Stir in whipping cream and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until thickened and reduced to 2 1/2 cups, about 6-8 minutes.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Nestle meatballs atop the pasta, pour the sauce over, and cover with foil. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
  6. Add Cheese and Finish: Remove foil, sprinkle Gruyere cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 3-5 minutes until melted. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with lemon wedges.
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Casserole
  • Cuisine: Swedish, Scandinavian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 575 per serving