Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake (Air Fryer Recipe)
Introduction
This Swedish Meatball Noodle Bake is a family-style comfort dish that transforms the classic Swedish meatballs into a creamy, cheesy casserole. It features juicy meatballs, soft egg noodles, and a velvety gravy-style sauce—all baked together in the air fryer for a golden, bubbling finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time (Air Fryer): 18–22 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork (or use all beef)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/2 small onion, finely grated
1/2 tsp allspice
Salt & pepper to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
For the Casserole:
6 oz egg noodles (about 3 cups cooked)
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Make the Meatballs (10 minutes)
In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk; let sit 2 minutes.
Add ground meats, egg, onion, allspice, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Mix gently and form into 1-inch balls (makes 18–20 mini meatballs).
Air Fry the Meatballs (10–12 minutes)
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly spray basket and add meatballs in a single layer.
Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
Boil the Noodles & Make the Sauce (10 minutes)
While meatballs cook, boil egg noodles according to package directions; drain.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux.
Slowly add beef broth, whisking constantly, then add cream, Worcestershire, and mustard.
Simmer until thickened (about 3–4 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Bake (3 minutes)
In a large bowl, mix noodles, cooked meatballs, sauce, and shredded mozzarella.
Transfer to a greased air fryer-safe baking dish (7–8 inch round or square).
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese on top.
Air Fry the Casserole (18–22 minutes)
Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
Air fry the casserole at 350°F for 18–22 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
If needed, cover loosely with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning.
Serving Suggestions:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill
Serve with lingonberry jam or steamed green beans on the side
A side salad or crusty garlic bread works great too
Tips & Variations:
Shortcut: Use frozen Swedish-style meatballs and pre-cook them in the air fryer
No egg noodles? Use rotini, penne, or wide ribbon pasta
Creamier version: Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream at the end of cooking