These Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles are a delicious, comforting meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this one-pot dish combines savory meatballs with creamy noodles. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of only 8 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time!
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks together in the Instant Pot.
- Flavorful and Rich: The combination of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cream creates a rich sauce that enhances the meatballs and noodles.
- Versatile Meal: This dish can be adapted with different types of meat or noodles to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for effortless lunches or dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures everything runs smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Instant Pot: The key tool for cooking this meal quickly under pressure while locking in flavors.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for perfect results every time.
- Mixing bowl: Helpful for combining ingredients before adding them to the pot.
- Whisk: Ideal for blending the cream and cornstarch into a smooth mixture.
Ingredients
These Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles are an easy one pot meal made in the pressure cooker! Made in 30 minutes or less.
For the Meatballs and Sauce
- 1 lb beef meatballs (frozen or thawed)
- 2 1/2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Noodles
- 3 cups extra broad egg noodles (140g)
For Creamy Sauce
- 1/2 cup half and half or heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Place meatballs in the Instant Pot with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until spices are combined.
Step 2: Add Noodles
Add noodles, spread them into an even layer, and press down gently but do not stir. They will not be completely submerged, which is fine.
Step 3: Cook Under Pressure
Put the lid on, turn the valve to sealing, and select Manual or Pressure Cook for 3 minutes. It will take about 10 minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure.
Step 4: Release Pressure
When cook time is over, do a quick release by opening the valve. For softer noodles, allow pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the valve. The noodles may appear dry on top—this is okay! Stir them into the meatballs.
Step 5: Thicken Sauce
Whisk together cream and cornstarch; stir into meatballs. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook while stirring just until sauce has thickened. At this point, all noodles will be perfectly cooked!
Now you have a hearty dish of Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles ready to serve! Enjoy this flavorful meal with family or friends any day of the week.
How to Serve Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles
These Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
Serve with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Chives – Add chopped chives for a mild onion taste that complements the dish.
Pair with Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – A side of steamed broccoli adds crunch and nutrition.
- Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots pair well with the savory meatballs.
Combine with Bread
- Garlic Bread – Serve with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls make a great addition to the meal.
Add a Salad
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad balances the richness of the meatballs.
- Garden Salad – Fresh greens tossed with vinaigrette add brightness to the plate.
How to Perfect Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles
To make your Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Frozen Meatballs – Choosing frozen meatballs saves prep time without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust Cooking Time – For firmer noodles, reduce cook time by 1 minute; for softer noodles, increase it slightly.
- Experiment with Spices – Adding spices like paprika or dill can elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
- Whisk Cream Thoroughly – Ensure the corn starch is fully dissolved in cream for a smooth sauce.
- Add More Broth if Needed – If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add extra broth before cooking.
- Allow Natural Release for Tenderness – Letting the pressure release naturally for a few minutes makes noodles softer.
Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles
Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the meatballs.
- Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf absorbs flavors beautifully from the sauce.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness to balance out the meal.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad offers protein and fiber, making the meal more nutritious.
- Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Ignoring the layering of ingredients: When adding the noodles, ensure they are spread in an even layer. If you stir them, they may clump together and not cook properly.
- Overcooking the meatballs: Pressure cooking for too long can make meatballs tough. Stick to the recommended 3 minutes cooking time for tender results.
- Not using enough liquid: The broth is crucial for pressure cooking. Always ensure there’s sufficient liquid in the pot; otherwise, you might end up with a burn notice.
- Skipping the sauce thickening step: After releasing pressure, don’t forget to whisk in the cream and cornstarch. This step is key for a rich, creamy sauce that coats the dish beautifully.
- Neglecting to season well: Proper seasoning enhances flavor. Make sure to include salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce as directed for a delicious outcome.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow the dish to cool before placing it in the fridge.
Freezing Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
- Label containers with dates for better tracking.
Reheating Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered baking dish, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh meatballs can be used. Just adjust your cooking time slightly if they are larger than average size.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free as well.
What can I serve with Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple side salad for added crunch and freshness.
How can I customize Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles?
Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also swap out beef meatballs for turkey or chicken meatballs based on your preference.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! You can double the ingredients while keeping the same cooking time. Just ensure not to exceed your Instant Pot’s maximum capacity.
Final Thoughts
These Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles offer a quick yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them irresistible! Feel free to customize with different proteins or veggies according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles, a quick and satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this one-pot dish features tender meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy sauce served over extra broad egg noodles. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can enjoy a delightful dinner without the hassle. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping meals for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef meatballs (frozen or thawed)
- 2 1/2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups extra broad egg noodles
- 1/2 cup half and half or heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Combine meatballs, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot.
- Add noodles evenly on top without stirring.
- Seal the lid and cook on Manual or Pressure Cook for 3 minutes.
- Perform a quick release or allow natural release for softer noodles.
- Whisk cream with cornstarch; stir into pot. Set to sauté mode until the sauce thickens.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Swedish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Use frozen meatballs for convenience. Adjust cooking time based on noodle texture preference. Incorporate additional spices for enhanced flavor.
