Name: Savory Classic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound ground pork; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 medium yellow onion (finely diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 teaspoon allspice; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)

Swedish Meatballs have been a beloved comfort food for generations, especially when served in a creamy gravy. This recipe for Classic Swedish Meatballs is not only easy to make but also perfect for family dinners. The combination of ground beef and pork, along with a blend of spices, creates a rich flavor that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish!

Why You’ll Love This Swedish Meatballs

There are plenty of reasons to adore these Swedish meatballs. First, they are incredibly flavorful, thanks to the unique blend of spices like allspice and nutmeg. Second, this recipe is adaptable, allowing you to create variations like homemade Swedish meatballs or Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce. Third, they can be served with various sides, making them versatile for any meal. Fourth, they are quick to prepare, with a total cooking time of only 30 minutes. Fifth, you can easily freeze any leftovers, which makes them great for meal prep. Lastly, they are gluten-free, accommodating dietary needs while still being delicious!

Ingredients for Swedish Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1 medium yellow onion (finely diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Swedish Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Stir until just combined, ensuring not to overmix for tender meatballs.
Step 2: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and arrange them on a baking tray.
Step 3: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs, cooking for about 8–10 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add the beef broth, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom, and simmer until thickened.
Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, simmering in the gravy for an additional 5 minutes.

Savory Classic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy - Swedish Meatballs - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Swedish Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Use a mix of beef and pork for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overmix the meat mixture to ensure tenderness.
For an authentic touch, serve with Swedish meatballs with cream sauce.
Consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.

Best Ways to Serve Swedish Meatballs

These delicious meatballs can be served in various ways. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic meal, or serve them over egg noodles for a comforting dinner. You can also enjoy them with Swedish meatballs with gravy on rice or as a hearty sandwich filler. For a festive touch, add a side of lingonberry sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Swedish Meatballs

To store leftover Swedish meatballs, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce. This method retains their moistness, making them just as delicious as when freshly made. With a prep time of only 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Swedish Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Swedish Meatballs?

The secret lies in the balance of meats and spices. Using both beef and pork gives the meatballs a rich flavor, while spices like allspice and nutmeg enhance their uniqueness. Ensuring not to overmix will keep them tender and juicy!

Can I make Swedish Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and cook them, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the gravy before serving. They also freeze well for up to 3 months, making them a great option for meal prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Swedish Meatballs?

Common mistakes include overmixing the meat mixture, which can result in tough meatballs. Another is cooking them at too high a temperature, which can cause them to brown on the outside but remain raw inside. Follow the cooking times closely for best results!

Variations of Swedish Meatballs You Can Try

There are several exciting variations to consider! For a twist on the classic, try Scandinavian meatballs with a hint of dill. You can also make easy Swedish meatball recipe by using frozen meatballs, or prepare authentic Swedish meatballs with a homemade sauce. Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavors!

Savory Classic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy - Swedish Meatballs - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Muffins or Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, try our Loaded Chicken Nachos Feast or Mini Pistachio Tartlets Recipe. For dessert, don’t miss our Molten Lava Chocolate Cake Recipe.

For more information on the health benefits of meatballs, you can visit Healthline.