ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Baking: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Intensities:
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Cooking Method: Stovetop, Oven
Instructions:
1. Meatball Preparation: a. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). b. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. c. Form the mixture into bite-sized meatballs.
2. Cooking Meatballs: a. Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. b. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
3. Pasta and Sauce: a. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. b. In a separate saucepan, heat the marinara sauce.
4. Assembling the Bake: a. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, browned meatballs, and marinara sauce. Mix well to ensure even coating. b. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Baking: a. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: a. Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. b. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
7. Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
8. Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake as a hearty and comforting main dish.
- Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Note: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes or cheeses for added variety. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a delicious next-day meal.