Swedish Meatballs are a classic comfort food featuring tender, flavorful meatballs smothered in a creamy, rich gravy. Traditionally served with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, these meatballs have a distinct taste thanks to the combination of warm spices like allspice and nutmeg. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful – The combination of beef and pork, along with warm spices, creates an incredibly savory and slightly sweet taste.
- Creamy Gravy – The luscious, buttery gravy makes this dish irresistible.
- Easy to Make – While they may look fancy, these meatballs come together quickly with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Swedish meatballs store well, making them a great option for leftovers or freezing.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp butter (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef, pork, grated onion, egg, soaked breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, allspice, nutmeg, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (about 8-10 minutes). Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Gravy:
5. In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any brown bits from the pan.
7. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
8. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes, until fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
9. Serve warm over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free milk and coconut cream in place of regular milk and heavy cream.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and use cornstarch instead of flour for the gravy.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for a slight heat.
- Lean Meat Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place cooked meatballs (without gravy) on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. The gravy can be frozen separately.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the gravy. Microwave individual portions in 30-second increments until heated through.
FAQs
What makes Swedish meatballs different from regular meatballs?
Swedish meatballs have a softer texture due to the milk-soaked breadcrumbs and a unique seasoning blend of allspice and nutmeg.
Can I use just beef for Swedish meatballs?
Yes, but the combination of beef and pork gives them a juicier texture and richer flavor.
What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?
Traditionally, they are served with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, lingonberry jam, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can shape the meatballs a day ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
What if my gravy is too thick?
Simply add a little more beef broth or cream to thin it out.
Can I use pre-made frozen meatballs?
Yes, but homemade meatballs have the best flavor. If using frozen, simmer them in the gravy until heated through.
What is a good substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
You can use soy sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a dash of vinegar.
How do I make this dish keto-friendly?
Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour and use a low-carb thickener for the gravy.
Can I add cheese to the meatballs?
Yes! Mixing in a little Parmesan or Gruyère cheese will add extra depth of flavor.
Conclusion
Swedish Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, flavorful meatballs with a creamy, savory gravy. Whether you serve them over mashed potatoes or noodles, this dish is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!
Print
Swedish Meatballs
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Swedish
Description
Swedish Meatballs are a classic comfort food featuring tender, spiced meatballs smothered in a rich, creamy gravy. Made with a perfect blend of beef and pork, warm spices like allspice and nutmeg, and a luscious sauce, this dish is traditionally served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, these homemade Swedish meatballs will be a guaranteed hit!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp butter (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, grated onion, egg, soaked breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, allspice, nutmeg, and parsley. Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
-
Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the meatballs in batches, browning on all sides (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
-
Make the Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes, until fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
-
Serve:
- Serve warm over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Notes
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free milk and coconut cream instead of regular milk and heavy cream.
- Gluten-Free: Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use cornstarch instead of flour.
- Baking Option: Bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
- Traditional Pairing: Serve with lingonberry jam for an authentic Swedish touch.
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