Swedish Meatballs Recipe: A Classic Comfort Dish
Craving something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying? This Swedish Meatballs Recipe is a classic dish that combines tender, perfectly seasoned meatballs with a creamy, rich sauce. A favorite in Scandinavian cuisine, these meatballs are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and they pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Swedish Meatballs Recipe
- Classic Comfort: This dish brings cozy, rich flavors that are perfect for any occasion.
- Savory Sauce: The creamy sauce adds a unique twist, making it a standout from traditional meatball dishes.
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this a go-to recipe.
Ingredients for Swedish Meatballs
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions for Making Swedish Meatballs
1. Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined.
- Form the mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
2. Brown the Meatballs
- In a large skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter. Stir in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
- Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps, and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Meatballs and Sauce
- Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, covering them with the creamy sauce. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot. Swedish meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even rice.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Tips for Perfect Swedish Meatballs
- Use a Mix of Meats: The combination of beef and pork creates a balanced, tender meatball.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing the meat too much can make the meatballs dense. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce as it simmers, adding more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce as desired for the right flavor balance.
Nutritional Benefits
Swedish meatballs provide a protein-rich meal and calcium from the creamy sauce. Adding parsley as a garnish brings a fresh taste and boosts vitamins.
Conclusion
This Swedish Meatballs Recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish, bringing together tender meatballs and a creamy sauce that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Simple to make yet packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with mashed potatoes or noodles, and enjoy a delicious, heartwarming meal!
