Swedish Meatballs Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Swedish Meatballs simmering on the stove. These tender, flavorful bites are coated in a luscious creamy gravy, making them the ultimate comfort food. Whether served over a bed of buttery noodles or alongside mashed potatoes, they’re sure to be a hit.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe during a cozy dinner at a friend's house. The rich, savory flavors instantly won me over, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. Since then, it's become a go-to dish for family dinners and special occasions alike.

Why You'll Love This Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this classic recipe that brings warmth and flavor to your table. These Swedish Meatballs are so much more than just a meal – they’re a delightful experience.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. While they may seem fancy, the steps are straightforward, and you’ll have perfectly browned meatballs smothered in a creamy sauce in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.

The flavor is unmatched. A blend of warm spices like allspice and nutmeg gives the meatballs their signature Swedish flavor. The creamy, savory gravy adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite irresistibly delicious.

They’re versatile, too! Serve them as a hearty dinner over noodles, or as a party appetizer with toothpicks. This dish adapts beautifully to suit any occasion.

Best of all, they’re freezer-friendly. Make a double batch, and you’ll have a quick and satisfying meal ready to go on those extra-busy days.

Ready to dive into the details? Let’s start with the ingredients that make these meatballs so special.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Swedish Meatballs lies in the balance of simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each component contributes to the irresistible flavors and textures of this dish.

Ground beef and pork are the heart of the meatballs. Using a mix of these two proteins gives them the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use just beef or a combination that includes ground turkey.

Breadcrumbs and milk create a moist, tender texture. Allowing the breadcrumbs to soak in milk before mixing ensures the meatballs stay juicy and soft, even after cooking.

Spices like allspice and nutmeg are the secret to authentic Swedish flavor. These warm, aromatic spices give the meatballs their unique character. Don’t skip them – they make all the difference!

Yellow onion and garlic add depth and savory richness. Finely grate the onion to ensure it blends seamlessly into the mixture, distributing its flavor evenly throughout the meatballs.

For the gravy, beef broth and heavy cream are key. This combination creates a silky, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the seasoned meatballs. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of cream.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a mixing bowl to bring everything together seamlessly. With these ingredients and tools ready, you’re set for success.

How To Make This Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Creating this beloved dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to bring authentic Swedish Meatballs to your table.

Start by making the meatball mixture. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, grated onion, minced garlic, and spices. Mix everything gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense, so aim for just enough to combine.

Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized balls, about an inch in diameter. Using a small cookie scoop can help keep them uniform. This ensures they cook evenly and look appealing when served.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan – this keeps them from steaming and allows them to develop a flavorful crust. Once browned, transfer them to a plate.

In the same skillet, prepare the gravy. Start by melting a bit of butter, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once smooth, stir in heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks.

Serve the meatballs hot, ladled with gravy, over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

From start to finish, you’ll spend about 45 minutes creating this comforting dish. The result is well worth every minute.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! These Swedish Meatballs store beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep.

Refrigerate any leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm them on the stovetop. The flavors deepen over time, so they’ll taste just as delicious as the day you made them.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is delightfully adaptable. Here are a few ways to customize it to your taste or dietary needs.

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the gravy.
• Switch up the protein: Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
• Spice it your way: Add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick, or experiment with other spices like smoked paprika for a unique twist.
• Dairy-free version: Use a dairy-free milk alternative for the breadcrumbs and coconut cream for the gravy. The flavors will vary slightly but remain rich and satisfying.
• Vegetarian option: Swap the meatballs for your favorite plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth for the gravy.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own. However you prepare it, these Swedish Meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your home!

Print