Swedish Meatballs

Swedish Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any dining table. This beloved Scandinavian dish features tender beef-and-pork meatballs, drenched in a rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in, these meatballs can be served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles. With their unique blend of spices and a luscious sauce, Swedish Meatballs are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process of making delicious Swedish Meatballs at home.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of nutmeg and allspice gives these meatballs an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them over creamy mashed potatoes or hearty egg noodles for a filling meal.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration, these meatballs fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delightful Swedish Meatballs, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Prevents the meatballs from sticking while browning, ensuring they maintain their shape.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Useful for cooling the cooked meatballs before adding them to the gravy.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 3/4 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup whole or 2% milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 12 ounces lean ground beef
• 12 ounces ground pork

For the Gravy and Serving:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
• Mashed potatoes or cooked egg noodles(optional)
• Finely chopped fresh parsley(optional)

How to Make Swedish Meatballs

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Transfer this mixture to a large bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In the same bowl, add:
1. Panko breadcrumbs
2. Milk
3. Egg
4. Salt
5. Nutmeg
6. Allspice
7. Black pepper

Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Mix in Ground Meats

Add both lean ground beef and ground pork to the bowl. Gently mix until everything is evenly combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs

Scoop out portions using about 2 tablespoons per meatball (aim for around 30 meatballs). Roll them into smooth balls using damp hands and place them on a baking sheet.

Step 5: Brown the Meatballs

In the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add half of the meatballs in a single layer. Brown them for about 2 minutes per side before transferring them back to the baking sheet. Repeat this step with the remaining meatballs.

Step 6: Make the Gravy Base

Reduce heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter and add flour, stirring for about one minute until blended.

Step 7: Whisk in Broth and Seasonings

Gradually whisk in low-sodium beef broth along with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper while scraping up browned bits from the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 8: Simmer with Meatballs

Return all browned meatballs along with any juices back into the pan. Let it simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully cooked through and gravy thickens.

Step 9: Finish with Cream

Stir in heavy cream (or sour cream) into your sauce mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 10: Serve

Serve your delicious Swedish Meatballs over mashed potatoes or cooked egg noodles, garnishing with finely chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Swedish Meatballs!

How to Serve Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs are a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and sauces. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the rich gravy, making every bite satisfying.

On Egg Noodles

• Serve the meatballs over cooked egg noodles for a hearty meal that soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.

With Lingonberry Sauce

• A traditional Swedish accompaniment, this sweet-tart sauce adds a delightful contrast to the savory meatballs.

Topped with Parsley

• Finely chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s freshness.

As a Meatball Sub

• Place meatballs in a toasted sub roll, smothered in gravy and topped with cheese for an exciting twist on sandwiches.

In a Salad

• Add sliced meatballs to a bed of greens with your favorite dressing for a unique and filling salad option.

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How to Perfect Swedish Meatballs

Creating perfect Swedish meatballs requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance flavor significantly, making your meatballs more delicious.

• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before forming the meatballs. This allows you to adjust salt and spices for the best flavor.

• Brown properly: Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding meatballs. Proper browning adds depth of flavor to both the meatballs and gravy.

• Simmer gently: Cooking at low heat helps keep the meatballs tender while allowing them to absorb flavors from the gravy.

• Experiment with sauces: While traditional gravy is great, try different sauces like cream of mushroom soup for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Swedish Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with Swedish meatballs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add a healthy touch and complement the rich flavors.

2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the heaviness of the meatballs.

3. Swedish Rye Bread: This dense bread is perfect for soaking up extra gravy or savoring alongside your meal.

4. Pickled Beets: The earthy sweetness of pickled beets pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of Swedish meatballs.

5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a nutritious green side that contrasts nicely with creamy gravies.

6. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, enhancing every bite of rich meatball goodness.

7. Creamy Polenta: Serve creamy polenta as an alternative base; it’s smooth and flavorful, providing comfort in every bite.

8. Garlic Bread: For those who love bread, garlic bread offers an indulgent way to enjoy all those savory juices from your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Swedish Meatballs can be a breeze, but common mistakes can hinder your delicious results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for tender results.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this; take the time to brown each meatball well before simmering in gravy.
• Not using enough seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can make your meatballs bland. Taste your mixture before cooking and adjust salt and spices as needed.
• Using low-quality beef or pork: The quality of meat impacts flavor and texture. Choose lean, high-quality ground beef and pork for the best taste.
• Forgetting to adjust the gravy’s thickness: If your gravy is too thick, add more broth; if it’s too thin, let it simmer longer. Adjust as necessary for the perfect consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Swedish Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Swedish Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Swedish Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warmth.
• Stovetop: Simmer in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Swedish Meatballs that might help you in your cooking journey.

How To Make Swedish Meatballs In The Oven?

While this recipe is stovetop-based, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes instead of frying.

What Can I Serve With Swedish Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even rice. Add a side of green beans or a salad for balance.

How To Make Swedish Meatball Sauce?

For an easy sauce, whisk together beef broth, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream after browning the meatballs. Simmer until thickened.

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead Of Beef And Pork?

Yes! Ground turkey is a lean alternative that works well. Just ensure you season it adequately to enhance flavor.

Final Thoughts

Swedish Meatballs are a heartwarming dish that offers comfort and versatility. This recipe allows for customization; feel free to experiment with spices or serve them with different sides. Try making these delightful meatballs today!