Swedish Meatball Casserole
A cozy twist on a classic dish, this Swedish Meatball Casserole features creamy sauce and tender meatballs topped with melted cheese, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey Feel free to switch to ground chicken for a lighter option.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free version.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast works as a dairy-free substitute.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binder; flaxseed meal mixed with water is a great vegan alternative.
- 1 small onion (finely chopped) Shallots work well too.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) The scent of garlic sizzling will elevate your kitchen atmosphere.
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup Opt for a homemade version if you prefer to avoid processed foods.
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth Use low-sodium options for a healthier dish.
- 1 cup sour cream Greek yogurt can substitute for a lighter touch.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For a delicious, gooey topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them in a skillet over medium heat.
Cooking
- Brown the meatballs for about 5 minutes, turning them until they are hardened on the outside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, broth, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, pour half of the sauce mixture at the bottom. Layer the browned meatballs atop this sauce, then cover with the remaining sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to achieve the golden, bubbly top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Feel free to add your personal flair by experimenting with herbs, adding vegetables, or trying different cheeses. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.