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Authentic Swedish Meatball Recipe | Creamy, Savory & Easy


Description

Swedish meatballs are a beloved classic, known for their tender texture, savory flavor, and creamy gravy. These meatballs are a staple in Swedish cuisine and have gained worldwide popularity, especially thanks to IKEA’s iconic version. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, an appetizer, or part of a smorgasbord, this recipe will guide you through making authentic Swedish meatballs from scratch. Perfect over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or with lingonberry sauce, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Let’s get started!

 


Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef

  • 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup milk

  • 1 small onion, finely grated

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/4 tsp ground allspice

  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

  • 2 tbsp butter (for frying)

For the Gravy:

  • 3 tbsp butter

  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving (Optional):

  • Mashed potatoes or egg noodles

  • Lingonberry sauce or cranberry sauce

  • Chopped parsley for garnish


Instructions

How to Make Easy Swedish Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to soften.

  2. Add the ground beef, ground pork, grated onion, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.

  3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

  1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.

  2. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.

  3. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

  1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.

  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

  3. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

  4. Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.

  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Meatballs and Gravy

  1. Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy.

  2. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Serve the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

  2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lingonberry sauce on the side.