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🦃 Turkey Swedish Meatballs

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A Lighter Take on a Classic Creamy Comfort Dish

There’s nothing quite like Swedish meatballs—tender, juicy, and served in a luxuriously creamy gravy. But if you’re looking for a healthier version that doesn’t skimp on comfort or flavor, these Turkey Swedish Meatballs are your new go-to recipe. Made with lean ground turkey and infused with the same warm spices and creamy sauce as the traditional version, this dish is lighter on calories and saturated fat, but every bit as cozy and satisfying.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a classy holiday appetizer, these turkey meatballs are a crowd-pleasing favorite that never goes out of style. Served over buttery mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even a bed of greens, you’ll love how versatile and forgiving this dish can be.

Let’s dive into the full recipe, tips, and tricks to make the best turkey Swedish meatballs from scratch!

🔧 Recipe Preparation Equipment

To create this delicious dish with ease, have the following tools ready:

  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large non-stick skillet or Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Sheet pan (if baking)
  • Parchment paper
  • Meat thermometer (optional)
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Cookie scoop (for uniform meatballs)

🛒 Ingredients

🦃 For the Turkey Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 small onion, finely grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying, or baking spray if baking)

🥣 For the Swedish Gravy:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: a pinch of paprika for depth

🧂 Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • Lingonberry jam (traditional Swedish accompaniment)

🧑‍🍳 How to Make Easy Turkey Swedish Meatballs

✅ Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture

  1. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until soaked.
  2. In a larger bowl, combine the soaked breadcrumbs, ground turkey, egg, grated onion, garlic, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg.
  3. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon just until combined—overmixing makes the meatballs dense.

✅ Step 2: Form and Cook the Meatballs

Baking Option (Healthier):

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. Scoop and roll the mixture into 1–1.5 inch balls. Place evenly on the sheet pan.
  3. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until lightly browned and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).

Skillet Option (More Flavorful):

  1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, for 6–8 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

✅ Step 3: Make the Creamy Gravy

  1. In the same skillet or a clean pan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux.
  3. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  4. Stir in the cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Let simmer for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

✅ Step 4: Combine and Simmer

  1. Gently add the meatballs back into the skillet with the gravy.
  2. Simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  3. Stir occasionally to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.

✅ Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot over your favorite base. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill and add a spoonful of lingonberry jam for an authentic touch.

🔄 Variations

  • Dairy-Free: Use almond milk in meatballs and coconut cream in the gravy.
  • Low-Carb: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
  • Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the meatball mixture.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Freeze meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers.

📌 Cooking Notes

  • Ground turkey is lean, so don’t overcook the meatballs to avoid dryness.
  • Grated onion adds moisture and flavor—don’t skip it!
  • Warming spices like allspice and nutmeg define Swedish-style flavor.
  • Adjust creaminess of the gravy by thinning with extra broth if needed.
  • Let meatballs rest in the sauce to absorb flavor before serving.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Classic: Serve over mashed potatoes with lingonberry jam.
  • Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables.
  • Hearty: Pair with egg noodles or buttered rice.
  • Scandinavian Brunch: Serve in small portions with crusty bread and pickled vegetables.
  • Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and a small bowl of gravy for dipping.

💡 Helpful Tips

  • Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform meatball size.
  • Chill meatball mixture for 15 minutes if it feels too sticky to shape.
  • For richer flavor, brown the meatballs before adding them to the sauce.
  • Whisk the gravy constantly while adding broth to avoid lumps.
  • If reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

🌟 Tips for the Best Turkey Swedish Meatballs

  1. Don’t overmix the turkey mixture—just combine gently.
  2. Use dark meat turkey or a 93/7 blend for juicier results.
  3. Let the meatballs rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving.
  4. Season gradually—turkey needs more salt than beef to enhance flavor.
  5. Add herbs like thyme or parsley for added brightness.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1/4 of Recipe)

  • Calories: 410
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutrition varies depending on sides and specific ingredients.

❓ FAQs

Can I freeze turkey Swedish meatballs?

Yes! Freeze the meatballs and gravy separately for best texture. Reheat gently on the stove.

Can I make this without cream?

Yes. Use milk or a mix of broth and plain yogurt for a lighter version of the gravy.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Try almond flour, crushed oats, or panko for a slight crunch.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely. It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats easily.

Why are my meatballs dry?

Ground turkey is lean—make sure to not overcook and always include moisture from milk and onion.

🏁 Conclusion

If you’re searching for a healthier twist on a beloved classic, look no further than these Turkey Swedish Meatballs. They deliver the same creamy, savory satisfaction as the original but with a lighter, leaner profile. Perfect for families, dinner parties, or simple weekday meals, this dish brings joy to any table.

With a little prep and a handful of pantry ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy meal that’s full of comfort, tradition, and flavor—without any of the guilt. Whether you’re eating low-carb, watching calories, or just want something cozy and quick, these turkey meatballs check every box.

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