Swedish Meatballs Recipe

“This easy Swedish Meatballs recipe delivers tender, juicy meatballs coated in a rich and creamy homemade gravy. Made with a blend of ground beef and pork, warm spices like allspice and nutmeg, and a buttery, flavorful sauce, these classic Swedish meatballs are perfect for a comforting family dinner. Serve them over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or with lingonberry jam for an authentic touch. This recipe is quick, simple, and ideal for meal prep, making it a must-try dish for any home cook!”

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (10%-15% fat)
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (or as needed)

For the Gravy Sauce:

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

How to Make the Meatballs:

1. In a large bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for a minute to absorb.
2. Add ground beef, ground pork, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into 24 meatballs.
4. Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes), turning as needed. Add more oil if necessary. Remove from the skillet and cover to keep warm.

How to Make the Gravy Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
3. Slowly stir in the beef broth, heavy whipping cream, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

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Tips

• Use a mix of beef and pork for the juiciest, most flavorful meatballs.
• Grate the onion instead of chopping for a smoother texture.
• Chill the meatballs for 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
• Brown the meatballs well before making the gravy for extra flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
• Dairy-free option: Swap out whole milk and heavy cream for dairy-free alternatives.
• Lighter version: Use ground turkey instead of beef and pork, and swap heavy cream for half-and-half.
• Add herbs: Fresh parsley or dill enhances the flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can refrigerate uncooked meatballs for up to 24 hours or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.

Q: Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
A: Absolutely! Bake at 400ºF for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.
• Pair with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.
• Enjoy with lingonberry jam for a traditional Swedish touch.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Comforting: Classic Swedish flavors with a creamy, flavorful gravy.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps with minimal prep.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family dinners or meal prep.
• Customizable: Easily adjust to dietary preferences.

Enjoy this classic Swedish Meatballs Recipe for a hearty and delicious meal!