Indulge in a delightful fusion of Swedish flavors with our Swedish Meatball Pasta recipe. This dish combines the savory goodness of meatballs with a creamy, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. Follow our simple steps to create a meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 egg
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp allspice
For the Pasta:
12 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or egg noodles)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, salt, black pepper, and allspice. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes. Remove meatballs from skillet and set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute, until lightly browned.
Gradually whisk in beef broth, followed by heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Cook, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve:
Return meatballs to skillet, stirring to coat with sauce.
Add cooked pasta to skillet and toss to combine.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Serving Tips:
Garnish Perfectly: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over each serving just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve Swedish Meatball Pasta with a side of crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Bread Accompaniment: Serve with garlic bread or crusty bread rolls to mop up the delicious creamy sauce.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover Swedish Meatball Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the meatballs and sauce separately. Store them in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to revive the creaminess.
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FAQs:
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.