traditional swedish meatball recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
traditional swedish meatball recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best traditional swedish meatball recipe

I’ve been making traditional Swedish meatballs for my family for years, and they’re always a hit. My kids love helping me mix the meat and roll them into perfect little balls.

The aroma of sizzling meatballs in the oven is just incredible – it’s like a warm hug on a cold day. I’ve tried many different recipes over the years, but this one remains my favorite.

It’s simple, yet full of flavor and texture. My family loves it when I serve these meatballs with a side of lingonberry jam and egg noodles.

The sweetness of the jam pairs perfectly with the savory meatballs, and it’s a meal that never fails to please even the pickiest eaters in my household. I’ve also found that these meatballs freeze beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep or last-minute dinners.

Just be sure to thaw them slowly in the fridge before reheating, as you want to preserve that delicate texture. And don’t even get me started on how much my family loves the leftovers – they’re just as tasty the next day, if not better!

As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly this recipe comes together and how versatile it is for any occasion.

Traditional Swedish Meatballs

Traditional Swedish Meatballs

4.8 from 1469 votes

A classic Swedish dish featuring tender meatballs in a creamy gravy, served with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

500g ground beef
500g ground pork
1 large onion
1 clove garlic
2 slices bread
1 cup milk
1 egg
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Gravy

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups beef stock
1 cup heavy cream
salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Lingonberry jam
Mashed potatoes

👨‍🍳Directions

1Soak bread in milk for 5 minutes, then squeeze out excess liquid.
2Finely chop the onion and garlic using a food processor.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, soaked bread, egg, salt, black pepper, allspice, ginger, and nutmeg.
4Add the chopped onion and garlic to the mixture.
5Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
6The mixture should be sticky and hold together when formed into balls.
7Form the meat mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
8Place the meatballs in a meatball pan.
9Cook in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
10The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
11While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the gravy.
12Melt butter in a sauté pan over medium heat.
13Add flour and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
14Gradually add beef stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
15Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
16Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
17The gravy should thicken slightly and have a smooth consistency.
18Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully remove them from the oven and place them in the gravy.
19Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb some of the gravy flavor.
20The meatballs should be coated in gravy and heated through.
21Serve the Swedish meatballs hot, accompanied by lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes.
22Arrange the meatballs on a platter, drizzle with gravy, and place lingonberry jam on the side.
23The finished dish should have a rich, savory flavor with a balance of sweetness from the lingonberry jam and creaminess from the gravy.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Food processor
Meatball pan
Sauté pan
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 30g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a healthier option, use lean ground beef and reduce the amount of heavy cream in the gravy. You can also add a mix of vegetables to the meatballs for added nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Traditional Swedish Meatballs Works

One thing I love about this recipe is its versatility – whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or just need something quick for dinner, these Swedish meatballs always fit the bill. They’re incredibly easy to reheat from frozen too – simply thaw them slowly in the fridge overnight and reheat in a saucepan with some leftover sauce until warmed through.

You can serve them as an appetizer or main course; either way, they’re sure to be devoured by your family and friends alike! For added convenience, you can also store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in your fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Swedish Meatballs

Q1: What’s the difference between Swedish meatballs and American meatballs?

Swedish meatballs are typically made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, whereas American meatballs often use just beef or a combination of beef and turkey. The ratio of meat to breadcrumbs is also different – Swedes like to use more breadcrumbs to create a lighter, airier texture.

Q2: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the meat mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to shape and cook them. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before cooking.

Q3: Why do Swedish meatballs have such a strong flavor?

It’s all about the combination of ingredients! Onions add a depth of flavor, while allspice provides warmth without overpowering the other flavors. The nutmeg adds a subtle earthiness that complements the richness of the beef.

Q4: Can I use leaner ground beef or substitute with ground turkey?

While you can try using leaner ground beef or substituting with ground turkey, keep in mind that these alternatives will change the flavor profile of your meatballs significantly.

Q5: How do I ensure my meatballs stay juicy?

Avoid overcooking them! Use a thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), but don’t overcook beyond that point. You can also try adding an extra tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs to help retain moisture.

Similar Posts