Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles

These Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles are an easy one pot meal made in the pressure cooker! Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish brings comfort and flavor together in just 30 minutes or less. Enjoy tender meatballs swimming in a creamy sauce with hearty noodles that absorb all the delicious juices. This recipe stands out for its rich taste and simplicity, making it a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: You can prepare this meal in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• One-Pot Wonder: No need to wash multiple pots and pans; everything cooks together in the Instant Pot.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth and Worcestershire sauce creates a savory sauce that enhances the meatballs and noodles.
• Creamy Texture: A dash of half-and-half or heavy cream adds a luxurious touch to the dish.
• Versatile Meal: Perfectly suited for any occasion—from casual family dinners to more festive gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Large spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This electric pressure cooker speeds up cooking time significantly while infusing flavors beautifully.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly, especially when thickening sauces or mixing cream.

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

• 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 the Sauce

• 1/2 cup half and half or heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon corn starch

How to Make Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Place meatballs in the Instant Pot with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until spices are combined.

Step 2: Add the Noodles

Add noodles to the pot. 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 and Stir

When cook time is over, do a quick release by opening the valve. If you prefer softer noodles, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes before opening. The noodles may appear dry on top—this is fine. Stir them into the meatballs.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

Whisk together cream and corn starch; stir this mixture into meatballs. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook while stirring just until sauce has thickened. Enjoy your perfectly cooked meal!

How to Serve Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles

Serving these Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles is simple and versatile. You can enhance the dish with a variety of accompaniments or garnishes that elevate the flavors and presentation.

Garnish Suggestions

• Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Add a sprinkle of cheese for a creamy, salty contrast to the meatballs.
• Chopped Green Onions – For a mild onion flavor, garnish with sliced green onions.

Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables – Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy crunch.
• Side Salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.

Serving Style

• In Bowls – Serve directly in shallow bowls to show off the noodles and meatballs beautifully.
• Family Style – Present in a large serving dish for guests to help themselves, creating a communal dining experience.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles

To ensure your Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meatballs – Choose high-quality beef meatballs for better flavor and texture.
• Adjust Broth Levels – If you prefer creamier noodles, consider adding more broth or cream according to taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot – Avoid overloading the Instant Pot to ensure even cooking of all ingredients.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add spices like onion powder or paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
• Allow Natural Pressure Release – For softer noodles, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes before venting.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic complement the meatballs beautifully.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a nutty flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
3. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that soaks up sauce nicely while adding texture.
4. Cucumber Salad – Refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and a hint of acidity to cut through richness.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn provides a delightful contrast in flavors alongside the savory meatballs.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not Using Enough Broth: A common mistake is skimping on the broth, leading to dry noodles. Always ensure you use enough liquid to cook the noodles properly.
• Stirring the Noodles: Stirring the noodles before cooking can cause them to clump together. Instead, layer them evenly on top of the other ingredients without stirring.
• Ignoring Cook Times: Each Instant Pot model may vary slightly in cooking time. Be sure to follow the recommended cook times for perfect meatballs and noodles.
• Skipping Quick Release: Allowing pressure to release naturally can overcook your noodles. For the best texture, always perform a quick release unless otherwise specified.
• Forgetting to Thicken the Sauce: If you skip adding cornstarch with cream, your sauce may end up too thin. Whisk them together before adding it back into the pot.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Good for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cooking time for Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles?

The total cook time in the Instant Pot is just 3 minutes once it reaches pressure. However, allow about 10 minutes for it to come to pressure first.

Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! While beef meatballs are used here, you can substitute with chicken or turkey meatballs depending on your preference.

How do I know when my meatballs are fully cooked?

Using a meat thermometer, ensure that meatballs reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be mindful not to exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly.

Final Thoughts

These Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs and Noodles are not only quick but also packed with flavor and comfort. They are incredibly versatile; feel free to customize by adding vegetables or changing up the seasonings. Try this easy recipe today for a satisfying meal!