Swedish Meatballs
Swedish Meatballs are a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and joy to your dining table. These savory meatballs, typically served with a creamy sauce, are perfect for dinner or as a delightful appetizer. They are flavorful, tender, and paired beautifully with mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying a craving, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Swedish Meatballs at home is easy and rewarding. The blend of ground beef and pork creates a juicy and flavorful meatball, while the addition of warm spices like nutmeg and allspice offers a unique taste. The creamy sauce elevates the dish, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. Plus, they are great for meal prep and freeze well for future enjoyment.
How to Make Swedish Meatballs
Ingredients
- 2 oz (about 1 cup) fresh crustless bread crumbs
- 1/4 tsp each nutmeg, allspice, cardamom
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 1/2 Tbsp butter, divided
- 2/3 cup finely chopped yellow onion (1/2 medium)
- 1 tsp minced garlic (1 clove)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large egg yolks
- 3/4 lb 85% lean ground beef
- 3/4 lb ground pork
- 3 1/2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tbsp minced fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking sheet (18 by 13 inches) with aluminum foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, nutmeg, allspice, cardamom, 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste), and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Pour in the milk and toss everything with a fork. Let it rest while you sauté the onions.
- In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until they soften and turn slightly golden brown, about 6 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last 30 seconds.
- Combine the ground beef and pork with the bread crumb mixture, onion mixture, and egg yolks. Gently toss to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Scoop out approximately 1 ounce of the meat mixture at a time and shape them into balls. Place the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven until they are cooked through. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the center reaches 160 degrees, which will take about 18 to 22 minutes.
- While the meatballs are baking, melt the remaining 3 1/2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet used for the onions over medium heat. Add the flour and cook while whisking until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth and cream while whisking. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat and continue whisking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer on low heat for a few minutes.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and gently toss them to coat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm alongside egg noodles or mashed potatoes with some lingonberry jam.
How to Serve Swedish Meatballs
Serve your Swedish Meatballs warm, ideally over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. For a classic touch, add a spoonful of lingonberry jam on the side. The sweetness of the jam pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the meatballs.
How to Store Swedish Meatballs
Store leftover Swedish Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Swedish Meatballs
- Use fresh bread crumbs for the best texture.
- Allow the meatball mixture to rest after combining to enhance the flavors.
- For consistent meatball sizes, use a cookie scoop.
- Don’t overwork the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
Variation
For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. You can also experiment with different spices or add a touch of cheese for extra richness.
FAQs
1. Can I make Swedish Meatballs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before cooking. Just thaw and cook them when ready.
2. What can I serve with Swedish Meatballs?
Traditionally, they are served with egg noodles or mashed potatoes, but rice or crusty bread can also be great sides.
3. Can I omit the spices in the recipe?
While the spices add great flavor, you can adjust them according to your taste. Leaving some out will still yield delicious meatballs!
