Baked Meatball Casserole with Egg Noodles and Creamy Sauce

 Baked Meatball Casserole with Egg Noodles and Creamy Sauce

 Ingredients:

**For the Meatballs:**
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

**For the Casserole:**
– 12 oz (340g) egg noodles
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

 Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. **Prepare the Meatballs:**
– In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley.
– Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
– Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
– Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until cooked through and browned.

3. **Cook the Egg Noodles:**
– While the meatballs are baking, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions.
– Drain and set aside.

4. **Prepare the Creamy Sauce:**
– In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
– Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
– Gradually add the beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
– Add the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
– Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

5. **Assemble the Casserole:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles and the creamy sauce.
– Transfer the noodle and sauce mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
– Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the noodles.

6. **Bake the Casserole:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is slightly golden.

7. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
– Serve hot and enjoy!

This dish makes a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for a family dinner. Enjoy!