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How to make Swedish Meatball Pasta

Swedish Meatball Pasta

Imagine a cozy evening where flavors dance across your palate, and each bite warms your soul.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Entree, Main Course
Cuisine American, Swedish
Servings 6
Calories 225 kcal

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – For sautéing and flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Helps balance all flavors.
  • ¼ cup Japanese-style panko crumbs – Provides a light crispy texture.
  • ½ pound ground pork shoulder – Brings richness.
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten – Serves as a binder.
  • teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – For a subtle kick.
  • ½ pound ground chuck beef – Essential for classic meatball flavor.
  • teaspoon ground allspice – Adds warmth.
  • ¼ cup finely minced yellow onion – Introduces sweetness and depth.
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce – A splash of umami.
  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley – A touch of freshness.
  • ½ teaspoon granulated garlic powder – Enhances flavor.
  • teaspoon ground nutmeg – A hint of earthiness.
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted European-style butter – Add richness.

For the Sauce:

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves – Brings an aromatic touch.
  • 16 ounces dry pasta of your choice – Fusilli penne, or spaghetti work well.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – For a creamy base.
  • Salt as needed – Season to taste.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce.
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste – Adds boldness.
  • 2 cups rich beef stock – The foundation of the sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream – For indulgent creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – A savory punch.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a zesty twist.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Crafting the Meatballs

  • Let’s kick things off by preparing the meatballs. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork shoulder and ground chuck beef. Feel free to get your hands in there—there's something almost therapeutic about mixing meat with spices. Add the finely minced onion, panko crumbs, salt, pepper, allspice, nutmeg, garlic powder, parsley, soy sauce, and the egg. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The soy sauce adds a surprising depth, enhancing the flavor profile beautifully.

Step 2: Forming the Meatballs

  • Next, shape the meat mixture into small meatballs—about the size of a golf ball. This allows them to cook evenly. Once formed, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Drop the meatballs into the hot skillet, making sure not to crowd them.
  • Brown the meatballs on all sides, roughly 8–10 minutes. Cooking them in batches may work better if your skillet is small. Remove them and set aside, letting them rest while we transition to the sauce.

Step 3: Preparing the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the flour, stirring to create a roux. Cook for about 1–2 minutes until it turns a light brown. This roux forms the base of your sauce.
  • Gradually whisk in the beef stock, ensuring there are no lumps. As it thickens, you can add the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir continuously.

Step 4: Bringing It All Together

  • Once the sauce is rich and slightly thickened, add the meatballs back to the skillet, ensuring they are coated.
  • Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Meanwhile, boil your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss it with the meatball sauce. Don’t be shy; make sure every piece of pasta is well coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Finally, serve your Swedish meatball pasta hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cheese if you like. Don’t forget to take a moment to admire your creation—plating is half the fun.

Notes

  • Extra virgin olive oil lends a fruity flavor that brightens up the dish.
  • Kosher salt is preferred for its texture and ability to enhance flavor without being too harsh.
  • Panko crumbs keep the meatballs light, avoiding that dense feel.
  • Ground pork shoulder and ground chuck beef offer a perfect balance of flavor and moisture; they melt in your mouth.
  • The egg is critical; it binds the meatballs, preventing crumbling.
  • Soy sauce, that umami powerhouse, amplifies depth and richness.
  • Thyme leaves introduce herbaceous notes, balancing the creamy sauce.
  • Heavy cream is luxurious in texture, making every bite indulgent.

Nutrition

Serving: 619gCalories: 225kcalCarbohydrates: 67gProtein: 30gFat: 25.5gSaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 1.1gCholesterol: 134mgSodium: 593mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g
Keyword Swedish Meatball Pasta
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