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.

Ingredients:

Meatballs:

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:

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.