The Best Swedish Meatballs Recipe

There's nothing like the comforting aroma of Swedish meatballs simmering in a rich, creamy sauce to make your kitchen feel warm and inviting. These savory, tender meatballs, nestled in a luscious sauce, are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering.

this Recipe

I first discovered the magic of Swedish meatballs during a trip to Stockholm, and I’ve been recreating that unforgettable taste ever since. With just the right blend of spices and a sauce that's pure indulgence, this recipe has become a go-to favorite in my home. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!

Why You'll Love This Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this classic recipe. These Swedish meatballs are more than just a dish—they’re a heartwarming experience on a plate.

First, they’re incredibly flavorful. The blend of ground beef and pork creates meatballs that are juicy, tender, and perfectly balanced, while the addition of allspice and nutmeg gives them that signature Swedish flavor.

Second, they’re a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving picky kids or discerning adults, everyone will be asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds). They’re perfect for family dinners or potlucks, where they always steal the show.

And finally, this recipe is surprisingly simple. While the end result looks and tastes like something out of a gourmet kitchen, it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. With just a few basic steps, you’ll have a dish that feels fancy but is totally fuss-free.

From the hearty meatballs to the velvety sauce, every bite is a little taste of Scandinavia. Ready to get started? Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Swedish meatballs lies in their perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component contributes to their incredible taste and texture, so let’s break it down.

The meat mixture is the foundation of this dish. I recommend a combination of ground beef and pork for the ultimate balance of flavor and juiciness. While you can use just one type of meat, the mix truly elevates the dish.

Breadcrumbs soaked in milk act as a binder, keeping the meatballs tender and moist. This step ensures they don’t dry out while cooking, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

For the seasoning, allspice and nutmeg are non-negotiable. These warm, aromatic spices give the meatballs their classic Swedish flavor. Don’t skip them—they’re the secret to authenticity!

The creamy sauce is made with beef broth, heavy cream, and a touch of Dijon mustard for tang. This combination creates a rich, velvety consistency that coats each meatball beautifully.

If you have a large skillet or sauté pan, you’re all set. No special equipment is needed—just a little patience as the sauce comes together to perfection.

How To Make This Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Making Swedish meatballs at home is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a dish that’s sure to impress.

Start by mixing your meatball ingredients. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, an egg, and seasonings. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough.

Roll the mixture into small, even-sized balls. Aim for about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter so they cook evenly. Set them aside on a plate or tray while you heat your skillet.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add your meatballs in batches. Brown them on all sides, then transfer to a plate. They don’t need to be cooked through yet—they’ll finish in the sauce.

To make the sauce, use the same skillet to sauté a finely chopped onion in the drippings left from the meatballs. Once softened, stir in a bit of flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in beef broth, letting the mixture thicken slightly before adding heavy cream and Dijon mustard.

Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Simmer gently for about 10-12 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is creamy and luscious. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Swedish meatballs store beautifully, making them an excellent meal prep option.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled meatballs and sauce to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

If you’d like to freeze them, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

The sauce may separate slightly upon reheating, but whisking it vigorously or adding a touch of cream should restore its creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

• Swap out the meats. If you don’t eat pork, you can use all beef or even a mix of beef and turkey for a lighter version.
• Add extra herbs. Fresh dill or thyme can give the meatballs an herbal twist that complements the creamy sauce.
• Make it gluten-free. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch.
• Lighten it up with Greek yogurt. For a healthier sauce, replace half the cream with plain Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess with fewer calories.
• Turn it into a casserole! Combine the cooked meatballs and sauce with cooked noodles, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.

Experimenting with these variations ensures you’ll never get bored. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a twist, Swedish meatballs are always a winner.

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