The Best Swedish Meatballs Recipe

There's something magical about the comforting aroma of Swedish Meatballs sizzling on the stove. Tender, savory meatballs drenched in a rich, creamy gravy—this classic dish is pure comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a cozy meal, these Swedish Meatballs are guaranteed to impress.

I first fell in love with Swedish Meatballs during a family trip to a small bistro. The combination of perfectly spiced meat and luscious sauce was unforgettable. Now, after much experimentation, I’ve perfected my own version of this dish, and it has become a cherished staple in our home.

Why You'll Love This Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to add this gem to your regular dinner rotation! These Swedish Meatballs are everything you could want in a meal: simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious.

First, these meatballs are incredibly tender and flavorful. A combination of ground beef, ground pork, and just the right spices creates a perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s packed with savory goodness.

The creamy gravy is a showstopper on its own. With a base of beef broth, heavy cream, and a touch of Dijon mustard, this sauce is silky smooth and wonderfully rich, perfectly complementing the meatballs.

This recipe is also surprisingly quick to make. From prepping to serving, you can have these meatballs on the table in under an hour, making them a practical option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

And let’s not forget versatility! Serve them over buttery mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even with a side of steamed vegetables for a meal that pleases every palate.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Swedish Meatballs lies in the balance of simple, yet impactful ingredients. Let’s break it down:

• Ground Beef and Ground Pork: This combination creates the perfect texture—juicy, tender, and flavorful. While you can use all beef or all pork, the mix gives the best results.
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs as the binder. They soak up the milk and help keep the meatballs moist.
• Allspice and Nutmeg: These spices are the heart of the dish, giving the meatballs their signature Swedish flavor. Don’t skip these!
• Beef Broth: A good-quality broth forms the base of the creamy gravy, adding depth and richness to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: This adds a luxurious touch to the gravy. For a lighter option, you could substitute with half-and-half, but the result won't be as indulgent.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Just a dash elevates the flavor, balancing out the richness with a subtle tang.

Special Equipment: A large skillet is key for evenly browning the meatballs and creating the gravy. You’ll also need a baking sheet if you prefer to bake your meatballs before simmering.

How To Make This Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Making these delicious Swedish Meatballs is easier than you think! Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Prepare the Meatballs
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, allspice, nutmeg, and a splash of milk. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine. Roll the mixture into small, golf-ball-sized meatballs and set them aside.
2. Brown the Meatballs
   Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, brown the meatballs on all sides. This step locks in the flavor and gives the meatballs a nice crust. Once browned, transfer them to a plate.
3. Make the Gravy
   In the same skillet, melt some butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream, then simmer until the gravy thickens.
4. Combine Meatballs and Gravy
   Return the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are fully submerged in the gravy. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld together.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve your Swedish Meatballs over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, with a generous ladle of gravy. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.

Storage Options

These Swedish Meatballs store beautifully, making them a great meal prep option.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of beef broth to refresh the sauce.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Make Ahead: You can also prepare the meatballs in advance. Shape and brown them, then freeze or refrigerate until ready to use. The gravy can be made fresh in just minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it adapts to your preferences or dietary needs:

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream alternative and skip the butter in the gravy. Olive oil works well as a substitute.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free flour blend for the gravy.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with a plant-based ground meat alternative. The flavors of the sauce work wonderfully with vegetarian substitutions.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the meatball mixture for a subtle kick.
• Serve with Lingonberry Jam: For an authentic Swedish touch, add a dollop of lingonberry jam on the side. The sweet-tart flavor pairs beautifully with the savory meatballs and creamy gravy.

Let this Swedish Meatballs Recipe become your go-to comfort dish. Its ease, versatility, and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a true winner for any occasion. Give it a try, and prepare to savor every bite!

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