Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
Indulge in a fusion of flavors with this delightful Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake. Combining the savory essence of classic Swedish meatballs with the comforting allure of a pasta bake, this dish promises a symphony of taste in every bite. Tender meatballs, crafted from a blend of ground beef and pork, mingle with al dente pasta, enveloped in a rich marinara sauce. Topped with a blanket of gooey melted mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish is a feast for the senses. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake is sure to become a beloved favorite at your table.
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Ingredients:
Meatballs:
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| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Ground pork | 1/2 pound |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Pasta Bake:
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| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pasta (penne or fusilli) | 1 pound |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | For garnish |
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides, then transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Assemble the Pasta Bake:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the pasta, nestling them into the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs and pasta, covering them evenly.
4. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once the pasta bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
