Swedish Meatballs

Swedish Meatballs are a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender, flavorful meatballs in a rich, creamy gravy sauce. Perfect as a main course or served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, this classic recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The flavorful gravy elevates the dish to indulgent perfection.
• Tender Meatballs: Ground beef and pork combine for a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Family Favorite: A timeless recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
• Easy to Make: Straightforward steps ensure a foolproof meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

• Ground beef – 1 pound
• Ground pork – 1 pound
• Large egg – 1
• Panko breadcrumbs – ½ cup
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
• Onion powder – ½ teaspoon
• Ground allspice – ¼ teaspoon
• Ground nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon
• Pepper – to taste
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• Butter – ¼ cup (1/2 stick)
• Flour – ⅓ cup
• Beef broth – 3 cups
• Dijon mustard – ½ teaspoon
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 teaspoon
• Full-fat sour cream – ½ cup
• Fresh parsley, chopped – 1 tablespoon

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, ground pork, egg, panko breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, allspice, nutmeg, and pepper until just combined.
2. Form the mixture into 1¼–1½-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (about 5–7 minutes per batch). Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until golden and bubbly (about 1–2 minutes).
2. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
3. Stir in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs

1. Return the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly coated with the gravy.
2. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and the gravy thickens.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

1. Turn off the heat and stir in sour cream until fully incorporated.
2. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish the dish with chopped parsley.
2. Serve the Swedish Meatballs hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Substitute the beef and pork with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Herby Touch: Add fresh thyme or dill to the gravy for an herbal twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
• Extra Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for an even richer gravy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to thin the gravy if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, bake the meatballs on a greased baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. Can I make the gravy without sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with heavy cream, Greek yogurt, or leave it out for a lighter sauce.

3. How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well-combined, but avoid overmixing. Chilling the meatballs for 15 minutes before frying can also help.

4. What can I serve with Swedish Meatballs?

Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed rice are classic pairings. Add a side of lingonberry jam for an authentic touch.

5. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and brown the meatballs in advance, then store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Add them to the gravy when ready to cook.

6. What if my gravy is too thick?

Thin the gravy by whisking in a splash of beef broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.

7. Can I use pre-made meatballs?

Yes, store-bought meatballs can be used. Just simmer them in the gravy until heated through.

8. What other spices can I use in the meatballs?

A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick to the flavor.

9. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavors and creamy sauce are usually a hit with kids. Adjust the seasonings as needed.

10. How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.

Conclusion

Homemade Swedish Meatballs are a timeless classic that brings comfort and joy to the table. With tender, flavorful meatballs and a creamy, savory gravy, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides and savor every delicious bite!

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