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Swedish Meatballs (Easy Dinner Idea)


  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter, for frying

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lingonberry jam (traditional accompaniment)

Suggested Sides:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Egg noodles
  • Steamed vegetables

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the liquid. This step ensures moist and tender meatballs. Add the ground beef, ground pork, egg, grated onion, garlic powder, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs dense.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the meat mixture. Roll each portion into a ball, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or plate.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted and sizzling, add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden brown and smells nutty. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, whisking until smooth. Simmer the gravy for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Gravy

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them to coat. Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Stir occasionally to ensure the meatballs are evenly coated in the gravy.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Swedish meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with your choice of mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables. For an authentic Swedish experience, add a dollop of lingonberry jam on the side.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5-6 meatballs with sauce
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g