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Swedish Meatball Pasta is a delightful fusion of Swedish flavors, combining savory meatballs with a creamy, rich sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta, making it a standout Creamy Comfort Food. This dish is simple to prepare yet delivers a cozy, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Follow our easy steps to create a dish that brings a taste of Sweden to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Swedish Meatball Pasta

I adore this Swedish Meatball Pasta recipe because it transforms classic Swedish meatballs into a hearty, pasta-packed Creamy Comfort Food dish. The tender, spiced meatballs, flavored with allspice and black pepper, soak up the luscious cream sauce, while the pasta adds a satisfying bite. The sauce, with its rich beef broth and heavy cream base, strikes the perfect balance of savory and indulgent. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and flavorful.

Ingredients for Swedish Meatball Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need for Swedish Meatball Pasta (serves 4–6):

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 egg
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp allspice

For the Pasta and Sauce:

12 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or egg noodles)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment:

Large mixing bowl
Large skillet
Medium saucepan
Colander
Whisk

Ingredient Tips:

Ground Beef: Lean (80/20) for flavor; pat dry for better browning.
Breadcrumbs: Plain or panko; soak in milk for moist meatballs.
Pasta: Fettuccine for creaminess; penne for heartier texture.
Broth: Low-sodium to control salt; chicken broth as a substitute.
Cream: Full-fat for richness; half-and-half for a lighter option.

Directions for Swedish Meatball Pasta

Let’s create this cozy Swedish Meatball Pasta!

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, I combine 1 lb ground beef, ½ cup breadcrumbs, ¼ cup milk, 1 finely chopped onion, 1 egg, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp allspice.
I mix until just combined, then shape into 1-inch meatballs (about 20–24).

Cook the Meatballs

I heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
I add the meatballs, cooking for 8–10 minutes, turning to brown all sides, until cooked through (internal temp 160°F).
I remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Pasta

In a saucepan, I cook 12 oz pasta according to package instructions. I drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, I melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
I stir in 2 tbsp flour, cooking for 1 minute to form a roux.
I gradually whisk in 2 cups beef broth, 1 cup heavy cream, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, stirring until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
I season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

I return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the sauce.
I add the cooked pasta, tossing to combine.
I garnish the Swedish Meatball Pasta with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot for a perfect Creamy Comfort Food meal.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Calories: ~550 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)
Macros per Serving: 50g carbs, 25g protein, 30g fat, 2g fiber

Variations for Swedish Meatball Pasta

Try these twists on Swedish Meatball Pasta:

Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the sauce for a zesty Creamy Comfort Food twist.
Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or pork for a lighter or richer Creamy Comfort Food flavor.
Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
Cheese Topping: Sprinkle ½ cup grated Parmesan over the finished dish for extra umami.
Herb Swap: Use dill instead of parsley for a traditional Swedish touch.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ Easy Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas for a diverse comfort food feast.
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the Creamy Comfort Food richness.
Offer with crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage

I store leftover Swedish Meatball Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, I microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes. For freezing, I store meatballs and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating. I cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Serving Tips

Garnish Freshly: Sprinkle chopped parsley just before serving for a vibrant, fresh touch.
Pairings: Serve with a green salad in vinaigrette or steamed vegetables for balance.
Bread: Include garlic bread or crusty rolls to mop up the creamy sauce.
Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls for an inviting, rustic look.
Temperature: Enjoy hot to savor the sauce’s rich, creamy texture.

FAQs About Swedish Meatball Pasta

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or egg noodles are commonly used, you can experiment with other types like penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef for a different flavor profile. Ensure the meatballs are cooked through before adding them to the sauce.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Swedish Meatball Pasta gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the sauce thickening. Ensure all other ingredients, such as Worcestershire sauce, are also gluten-free.

What can I serve with Swedish Meatball Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. These sides complement the creamy sauce and savory meatballs beautifully.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and cook the meatballs up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, then reheat gently in the sauce when ready to serve.

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Conclusion

Our Swedish Meatball Pasta recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a fan of Swedish cuisine or simply love pasta dishes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and treat yourself to a taste of Sweden right in your own kitchen!