Authentic Swedish Meatballs
There’s something about the warm, savory aroma of Swedish meatballs simmering in creamy gravy that feels like a hug on a plate. As a mom, I’m always on the hunt for meals that my family will love, and these Swedish meatballs have become a staple in our household. They’re rich, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.
This recipe was born out of necessity during one of those “what’s in the fridge” nights. I combined some pantry staples, and to my delight, the result was better than I could have imagined. Now, this dish graces our dinner table on everything from lazy Sundays to hectic weeknights.
The best part? Watching my kids sneak extra meatballs when they think I’m not looking. My husband, who’s a tough critic, even says these are better than any he’s tried at a restaurant. The creamy gravy pairs perfectly with the tender, flavor-packed meatballs. Plus, it’s an easy meal to double for leftovers or for freezing.
Trust me when I say this recipe will become a regular in your rotation. Whether served with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even a side of lingonberry jam for authenticity, these Swedish meatballs never fail to bring smiles to the table.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them. They also freeze beautifully for up to three months.
What kind of meat should I use?
A mixture of ground beef and ground pork works best for flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the cream in the gravy?
Absolutely. If you need a lighter option, whole milk works well, though it won’t be as rich.
What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
No problem! Crushed crackers or even oats can work as substitutes.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
Warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the gravy.
What You Need to Make Authentic Swedish Meatballs:
Ingredients for Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/2 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredients for Gravy:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon
How to Make It:
Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Shape the meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
Cook the meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning to ensure even cooking. Remove and set aside.
Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add beef broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in cream and Dijon mustard, then season with salt and pepper.
Combine: Return the meatballs to the skillet, letting them simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
Serve and enjoy: Pair with mashed potatoes, noodles, or your favorite side.
Tips:
Don’t overmix the meat: Overmixing can make the meatballs dense.
Use a cookie scoop: It ensures uniform meatballs that cook evenly.
Deglaze the skillet: Scrape up the browned bits before making the gravy for extra flavor.
Add a Swedish touch: Serve with lingonberry jam for an authentic pairing.
Latest Reviews:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These meatballs were a hit with my picky kids! Will definitely make again.” – Jenna L.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the flavors, but I might add a little more salt next time.” – Paul T.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for a cozy dinner. My family asked for seconds!” – Maria G.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe, but the gravy was a bit thick for my liking. Easy fix with more broth!” – Sarah P.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I’ve tried many recipes, and this one’s the best. So easy and delicious!” – Kim W.
Printable Recipe:
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Authentic Swedish Meatballs
Whip up these tender, flavorful Swedish Meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this family-favorite recipe is easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ingredients for Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Cook the meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning to ensure even cooking. Remove and set aside.
- Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add beef broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in cream and Dijon mustard, then season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Return the meatballs to the skillet, letting them simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy: Pair with mashed potatoes, noodles, or your favorite side.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook
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