Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
Savor the perfect blend of comfort and flavor with this Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake — a delicious twist on two beloved classics. Juicy, tender meatballs made from a mix of beef and pork come together with perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich marinara sauce. Topped with a layer of melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this hearty dish delivers warmth, nostalgia, and indulgence in every bite. Ideal for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers, it’s bound to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Ground pork | ½ pound |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Milk | ½ cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | ¼ cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
For the Pasta Bake:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pasta (penne or fusilli) | 1 pound |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | For garnish |
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, oregano, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until just combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch each.
In a skillet over medium heat, warm a drizzle of olive oil and cook the meatballs in batches until evenly browned on all sides. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
In a mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with marinara sauce until well coated.
Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Place the meatballs on top, gently pressing them into the sauce.
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over everything.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Top with chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
