Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs are a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dining table. These tender and flavorful meatballs are enveloped in a rich creamy sauce that perfectly balances savory spices. Traditionally served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce, this dish embodies the essence of home-cooked meals and Scandinavian hospitality. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, Swedish meatballs are sure to impress your guests with their delicious taste and inviting aroma.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 550
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fat: 35 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 1 gram
• Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Swedish Meatballs

Making Swedish meatballs is a delightful way to bring a taste of Scandinavia into your kitchen. These hearty morsels pack a punch of flavor, with the combination of ground beef and pork creating a rich texture. Each bite is tender and juicy, enhanced by the warm spices of nutmeg and allspice. The creamy sauce not only adds depth but also provides a wonderful contrast to the savory meatballs. Plus, this recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

How to Make Swedish Meatballs

Step 1: Preparation

In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Mixing

Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.

Step 3: Cooking

In a skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Step 4: Finishing

In the same skillet, add flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually stir in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then add the heavy cream. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

How to Serve Swedish Meatballs

Serve your Swedish meatballs warm, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and a dollop of lingonberry sauce for a traditional experience. You can also serve them over egg noodles or rice for a delightful twist. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

How to Store Swedish Meatballs

To store leftover Swedish meatballs, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just ensure to reheat them thoroughly before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Swedish Meatballs

• Use a mix of ground beef and pork for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
• Browning the meatballs well adds depth of flavor, so don’t rush this step.
• If you want a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth.

Delicious Variations

• Turkey Swedish Meatballs: Substitute the beef and pork with lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
• Vegetarian Swedish Meatballs: Use lentils, mushrooms, and breadcrumbs for a meatless version. Add some soy sauce for a rich flavor.
• Spicy Meatballs: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the meat mixture for a kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make Swedish meatballs ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

• What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
  You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute for breadcrumbs.

• How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
  The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef/pork. Alternatively, they should be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.

• Can I make Swedish meatballs in the oven?
  Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

• What is traditional to serve with Swedish meatballs?
  Mot traditional accompaniments include mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, or pickled cucumbers.

Conclusion

Swedish meatballs are a comforting, flavorful dish that everyone loves. They make for a perfect family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. This recipe is simple enough for any home cook to master, with delicious results that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So grab your ingredients, gather loved ones, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and savoring Swedish meatballs together!

Swedish Meatballs

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

Tender and flavorful meatballs enveloped in a rich creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. In a skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually stir in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits, then bring to a simmer. Add heavy cream and return meatballs to skillet, letting them simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.

Notes

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce for a traditional experience.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Scandinavian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 150mg