This 20-minute Swedish Meatball Pasta recipe is a weeknight lifesaver! It’s surprisingly easy to make, tastes amazing, and requires minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy families or anyone craving a comforting yet quick meal.
Speedy Swedish Meatballs
Forget hours of simmering and meticulous prep. We’re making things fast here! The secret? Using pre-made meatballs (available in most supermarkets). This cuts down on cooking time significantly, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss. You can find them in the frozen food aisle. If you prefer homemade, however, feel free to use your favorite recipe, just keep in mind it will add to the overall cooking time. 
Creamy Tomato Sauce Magic
The rich and creamy tomato sauce is the star of this dish. We’ll be using a simple combination of canned crushed tomatoes, cream, and a touch of vegetable broth for depth of flavor. Seasoning is key; we’ll add a blend of herbs and spices to perfectly complement the meatballs. A pinch of nutmeg adds a lovely warmth! Check out our tips for building the perfect sauce.
Pasta Perfection
While your sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package directions. We recommend using a shape that holds the sauce well, like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. Make sure to reserve some pasta water before draining—this helps create a luscious, creamy consistency when you combine it with the sauce. 
Bringing it All Together
Once the pasta is cooked, gently toss it with the creamy tomato sauce and meatballs. A final stir ensures that every strand of pasta is coated in that delicious, flavorful sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of freshness. Here’s a great resource for pasta cooking tips. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Optional Additions
Feel free to customize this dish! Add sauteed mushrooms, spinach, or even some sun-dried tomatoes to elevate the flavor profile. You can also experiment with different cheeses – a sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano would be delicious. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Discover more ways to customize your dish here.
Conclusion
This 20-minute Swedish Meatball Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Find more quick pasta recipes here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of pasta? Yes, feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes. Penne, rigatoni, and farfalle work well, but other shapes can be used as well.
What if I don’t have cream? You can substitute the cream with half-and-half or even milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Can I make this ahead of time? The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before adding the pasta and meatballs.
Where can I find pre-made meatballs? Most supermarkets carry pre-made frozen meatballs in their frozen food aisle.
Are there any substitutions for the herbs? You can substitute the herbs with your favorites. Italian seasoning would also work well. Check out this herb substitution guide.