slow cooker swedish meatballs recipe

slow cooker swedish meatballs recipe

The Best slow cooker swedish meatballs recipe

I’ve been making this slow cooker Swedish meatballs recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originates from Sweden, where it’s known as ‘köttbullar’ or ‘meatballs.’ It’s a traditional recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and I’m so glad I discovered it.

The first time I made it was for a family gathering, and everyone loved it. The meatballs are made with ground beef and pork, mixed with onions, allspice, and milk, then formed into small balls and cooked in a rich beef broth with some heavy cream. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a special dinner or just a weeknight meal.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make – simply brown the meatballs in a pan, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the broth and cream, and let it cook all day. When I come home from work, I have a delicious meal ready for my family. My kids love helping me make the meatballs, and they’re always excited to eat them.

The best part is that this recipe is also relatively healthy – the beef and pork provide protein, while the vegetables add fiber and vitamins. And because we use lean ground beef and pork, the dish is lower in fat than many other meatball recipes. This slow cooker Swedish meatballs recipe is a staple in our household, and I know it will be in yours too once you try it out!

I’ve been making this recipe for years now, but I still get excited every time I serve it to my family. They love how tender the meatballs are after cooking all day in the slow cooker – it’s like they melt in your mouth! And let me tell you, there’s nothing like coming home to the aroma of Swedish meatballs wafting from the kitchen…

oh my goodness! But seriously though – this recipe has been a game-changer for us.

Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs

Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs

4.6 from 1813 votes

Tender homemade meatballs simmered in a rich creamy gravy, made easy in the slow cooker. This classic Swedish dish is perfect for a comforting dinner served over egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Gravy

2 cups beef broth
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg.
2Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4Preheat the oven to 400°F.
5Bake the meatballs for 15 minutes until they are lightly browned and hold their shape, turning them halfway through.
6This step helps them stay firm in the slow cooker without falling apart.
7In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, condensed cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
8Pour this mixture into the slow cooker.
9Add the browned meatballs to the slow cooker, gently stirring to coat them with the gravy.
10Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
11About 15 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
12Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until it forms a paste.
13Stir in 1/2 cup of the hot gravy from the slow cooker, then pour this mixture back into the slow cooker and stir well.
14Add the sour cream and stir until the gravy is smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.
15Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
16Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the meatballs and gravy over egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Slow cooker (4-6 quart)
Whisk
Small bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the pork and use low-fat cream of mushroom soup. The meatballs can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator before browning.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs Works

This slow cooker Swedish meatballs recipe has been a staple in our household for years now – my family loves how tender they are after cooking all day in the slow cooker.

One thing we love about this recipe is how versatile it is – we enjoy serving these delicious little bites at family gatherings or just having them as an easy weeknight meal after work.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs

Q: What type of meat should I use for Swedish meatballs?

A: Traditionally, Swedish meatballs are made with a combination of ground beef and pork. You can use either lean or regular ground beef and pork – whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Q: Can I make Swedish meatballs without allspice?

A: While allspice is an essential spice in traditional Swedish meatball recipes, you can omit it if you don’t have any or don’t like its flavor. However, keep in mind that allspice adds depth to the dish – so if you’re looking for an authentic taste experience, don’t skip it!

Q: How do I store leftover Swedish meatballs?

A: If you have leftovers after serving your slow cooker Swedish meatballs at a party or gathering (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat them by simmering in some additional broth until warmed through.

Q: Can I make Swedish meatballs ahead of time?

A: Yes! Forming the meatballs ahead of time can save you some prep work when you’re ready to cook them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until you’re ready to cook them – then proceed as instructed.

Q: Do I need to brown the meatballs before cooking them in the slow cooker?

A: No – while browning adds flavor to your Swedish meatballs (and makes them look nice), it’s not necessary if you’re short on time or prefer not to brown your meat.

Q: Can I serve Swedish meatballs with other sides besides lingonberry jam?

A: Absolutely! While lingonberry jam is traditional accompaniment to Swedish meatballs (it pairs perfectly!), feel free to serve them with any side dish of your choice – mashed potatoes, egg noodles, steamed vegetables… whatever suits your taste!

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