swedish turkey meatballs recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
swedish turkey meatballs recipe
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The Best swedish turkey meatballs recipe

I have been making Swedish meatballs for years, but I recently switched to using ground turkey and it has been a game changer for my family. The traditional recipe uses a mix of beef and pork, but turkey gives you that same tender texture with less fat. My kids actually prefer these turkey meatballs because they are lighter and not as greasy.

I love that I can serve them for a weeknight dinner or for a holiday gathering and everyone is happy. These Swedish turkey meatballs are perfect for anyone looking to eat a little healthier without sacrificing flavor. The meatballs are seasoned with allspice and nutmeg, which gives them that classic warm taste.

I serve them with a creamy gravy made from broth and sour cream, and it is just so comforting. My husband always goes back for seconds, and that is the best compliment I can get. The key to making these meatballs is to not overwork the meat mixture.

You want to combine the ingredients gently so the meatballs stay tender. I also like to brown them in a skillet before simmering them in the gravy. This step adds so much depth of flavor.

If you have never made Swedish meatballs before, this turkey version is a great place to start. I also appreciate that this recipe uses simple ingredients I usually have on hand. Ground turkey, breadcrumbs, an egg, and some spices are all you need.

The gravy comes together with butter, flour, broth, and sour cream. It is a straightforward dish that feels special. Whether you are cooking for your family or bringing a dish to a potluck, these meatballs always get rave reviews.

Swedish Turkey Meatballs

Swedish Turkey Meatballs

4.5 from 768 votes

These Swedish turkey meatballs are tender and full of warm spices like allspice and nutmeg. They are served in a creamy gravy that is perfect over egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground turkey
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 small onion, finely grated
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons butter, for frying

For the Gravy

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth, low sodium
1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, grated onion, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg.
2Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
3Do not overmix or the meatballs will be tough.
4Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
5You should get about 20 to 24 meatballs.
6Place them on a plate or baking sheet as you go.
7Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
8Add the meatballs in a single layer, working in batches if needed.
9Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
10The meatballs should be golden brown and cooked through.
11Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
12In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
13Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
14Slowly whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
15Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until thickened.
16The gravy should coat the back of a spoon.
17Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or sour cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
18Season with salt and pepper to taste.
19Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, until heated through.
20Serve hot over egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Large skillet
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 890mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. Make sure to grate the onion finely so it melts into the meatballs.

Watch Video Of How Swedish Turkey Meatballs Works

I love that these Swedish turkey meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, just warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or in the microwave.

They also freeze beautifully, so I often double the batch and keep some on hand for busy nights. For serving, I like to put the meatballs and gravy over a bed of egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes.

A side of lingonberry jam or even cranberry sauce adds that perfect sweet and tart note. This recipe is always a good idea for a family dinner or a holiday gathering because it feels special but is so simple to put together.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Swedish Turkey Meatballs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for the turkey. The texture and flavor will be very similar. Just make sure to use ground chicken with a little fat, like 93/7, so the meatballs stay moist.

2. How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

The key is to not overmix the meat mixture and to use enough binder. The breadcrumbs and egg help hold everything together. Also, browning the meatballs gently in butter helps them set before simmering in the gravy.

3. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs in the gravy for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

4. What should I serve with Swedish turkey meatballs?

These meatballs are traditionally served with egg noodles or mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast. Steamed green beans or a simple salad round out the meal.

5. Can I make the gravy dairy free?

Yes, you can use a dairy free butter substitute and replace the heavy cream with canned coconut milk or a dairy free creamer. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. Use a gluten free flour blend if you need it to be gluten free as well.

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