Swedish Meatballs

Swedish Meatballs are a classic comfort food that combines tender, flavorful meatballs with a rich and creamy gravy. Known worldwide, these meatballs are traditionally served with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes, creating a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. I love this recipe because it produces perfectly soft meatballs coated in a luscious sauce that feels indulgent yet homey.

It’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe is a must-try because it’s an authentic take on the beloved Swedish classic that is both satisfying and easy to prepare at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Swedish Meatballs recipe because it perfectly balances flavor, texture, and comfort. The meatballs are tender and juicy, seasoned with a blend of spices that is subtle yet aromatic, giving them that classic Swedish taste. What makes them even better is the creamy, rich gravy that coats each meatball, adding a luxurious depth of flavor.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This Swedish Meatballs recipe is a must-try because it transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, flavorful, and elegant dish that is beloved worldwide. The meatballs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, while the creamy gravy adds richness and depth that elevates the dish to something truly special.

Preparation Time and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings and Calories

Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Course and Cuisine

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Swedish / European

Ingredients

For Meatballs

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1/2 lb (225 g) ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil for frying

For Gravy

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for color and depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

1. In a small bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, melt butter for the gravy. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
6. Gradually whisk in beef broth until smooth.
7. Stir in heavy cream and soy sauce (if using) and simmer until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the gravy for 10 minutes until cooked through and tender.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture – Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Mix Meatball Ingredients – Combine ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, egg, and spices in a large bowl.

Step 3: Shape Meatballs – Form small meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Brown Meatballs – Heat butter or oil in a skillet and fry meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 5: Make Gravy – Melt butter in the skillet, stir in flour, cook 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in beef broth and cream until thickened.

Step 6: Simmer Meatballs in Gravy – Return meatballs to the gravy and simmer for 10 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning – Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Swedish Meatballs hot, accompanied by mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Traditional accompaniments include lingonberry jam or pickled cucumbers. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
• Brown the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• For extra flavor, sauté onions in butter before adding to the meat mixture.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach 165°F (74°C) internally.

Variations

• Turkey Swedish Meatballs – Replace beef and pork with ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Mushroom Gravy – Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for added depth and texture.
• Spicy Swedish Meatballs – Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a slight kick.
• Slow Cooker Version – Brown meatballs, then cook in gravy on low for 3-4 hours for a hands-off method.

Freezing and Storage

• Store leftover meatballs with gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze cooked meatballs and gravy for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or frying pan
• Whisk for gravy
• Spatula or tongs for turning meatballs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Swedish Meatballs are a comforting, flavorful, and elegant dish that combines tender, seasoned meatballs with a rich, creamy gravy. Simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive for special occasions, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its classic flavors and easy preparation, Swedish Meatballs are a must-have recipe in your culinary collection, perfect for sharing with family and friends.