Swedish Meatball Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a satisfying blend of creamy sauce, savory meatballs, tender noodles, and melted cheese that creates a cozy, family-friendly meal. It’s the type of dish that brings everyone around the table, hungry for second helpings. This casserole is not just delicious—it’s a clever twist on traditional Swedish meatballs, transformed into a baked one-dish dinner that saves time and amplifies flavor. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a make-ahead meal, this recipe delivers.
What Is Swedish Meatball Casserole?
Swedish Meatball Casserole is a layered, baked dish that combines the rich, creamy gravy associated with classic Swedish meatballs, hearty egg noodles, and gooey cheese. The casserole format simplifies the meal by baking all components together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Traditional Swedish meatballs are typically served with gravy, mashed potatoes, and lingonberry jam. In this version, we retain the beloved meatballs and creamy sauce, replacing the potatoes with egg noodles and baking everything until golden and bubbling.
The addition of cheddar cheese gives the casserole a lightly sharp edge, balancing the richness of the cream. Meanwhile, the mushrooms and onions add earthy depth and aroma. It’s a full meal in one dish, with protein, starch, and veggies harmoniously blended.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need to make Swedish Meatball Casserole. All measurements are in U.S. cups and tablespoons for consistency and convenience.
Meatballs & Noodles
- 3 ¼ cups frozen Swedish meatballs (thawed) – These pre-made meatballs save time. If you prefer homemade, use your favorite Swedish meatball recipe.
- 1 cup wide egg noodles (uncooked) – These absorb the sauce and add substance to the dish.
Sauce Base & Thickener
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Helps create the roux that thickens the sauce.
- 2 cups beef broth – Adds deep flavor to the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Offers umami and savory complexity.
Vegetables & Aromatics
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped – Provides sweetness and depth.
- 1 cup cremini or white mushrooms, sliced – Adds an earthy component to the casserole.
Cream & Butter
- ½ cup sour cream – Gives the sauce a subtle tang and rich texture.
- ½ cup heavy cream – Enhances the lusciousness of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Used for sautéing and flavoring the base.
Cheese for Gratin
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Melts over the top for a golden crust and extra richness.
Seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Adjust to your preference.
Garnish (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of wide egg noodles and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain the noodles well and set them aside. It’s important not to overcook the noodles, as they will continue to cook during baking.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish using nonstick spray or a small amount of butter.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 1–2 minutes until they soften.
Step 4: Create the Roux
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the onion and mushroom mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 5: Add Liquids
Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Add Creamy Components
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture becomes smooth and velvety. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, cream sauce, and thawed meatballs. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. The cheese should be melted and golden brown, and the sauce should bubble around the edges.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Preparation Time
- Active Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Noodle Boil: 10 minutes (can overlap with sauce prep)
- Baking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: Approx. 45 minutes
Calories and Nutritional Information
Each serving of Swedish Meatball Casserole is approximately 500 calories, depending on the specific brands of meatballs, cheese, and cream used. This estimate includes:
- Protein from the meatballs and cheese
- Carbohydrates from the egg noodles
- Fat from the sour cream, heavy cream, and cheese
You can reduce the calorie count slightly by using light sour cream or cutting down on the cheese.
Tips for Success
- Do Not Overcook Noodles: Slightly undercook them so they don’t become mushy during baking.
- Homemade Meatballs: If you prefer to make your own, blend ground beef and pork with breadcrumbs, onion, egg, and spices.
- Customize the Cheese: You can substitute mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère for cheddar.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add 5–10 extra minutes to the bake time.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze in individual portions. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Add More Veggies: Mix in peas, spinach, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is filling on its own but pairs well with:
- Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted or steamed green beans
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Reheat: Use microwave for quick reheating, or bake at 350 °F until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
Swedish Meatball Casserole is a comforting, practical, and utterly satisfying dish that brings the flavors of a traditional Nordic favorite into a family-style format. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd, reheats beautifully, and offers plenty of opportunity for customization. Creamy, cheesy, savory, and simple to prepare, it’s a recipe worth adding to your regular dinner rotation.