Name: Swedish Meatballs: A Delicious & Cozy Dish
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef; 1/2 lb (225 g) ground pork; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp ground allspice; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp butter (for frying); 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Dijon mustard

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Short description

Swedish meatballs, or köttbullar, are tender, bite-sized meatballs traditionally made from a mixture of ground beef and pork, seasoned with warm spices such as allspice and nutmeg. They are often served in a creamy gravy alongside mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic recipe combines savory meat, gentle spices, and a luscious sauce, creating a dish that is both hearty and elegant. The small meatball size ensures tenderness, and the creamy gravy adds a luxurious finish. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for meal prep, and ideal for both family dinners and entertaining guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Ground pork
Breadcrumbs
Milk or cream
Egg
Onion, finely chopped
Butter or oil
Allspice
Nutmeg
Salt
White pepper
Beef or chicken stock
All-purpose flour
Heavy cream or sour cream
Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce

Directions

Soak the breadcrumbs in milk or cream until fully absorbed.
Sauté the chopped onion in butter or oil until soft and lightly golden.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, cooked onion, and spices. Mix until just combined.
Shape the mixture into small balls, about 2–4 cm in diameter.
Brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until evenly colored on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, make a roux with butter and flour. Slowly whisk in stock, followed by cream or sour cream, and season with Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce.
Return the meatballs to the pan and simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, until cooked through and coated in sauce.
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, and a spoonful of lingonberry jam.

Servings and timing

Yield: About 20–33 meatballs, serving 4–6 people
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: Around 1 hour

Variations

Replace some of the pork with veal or turkey for a lighter texture.
Add grated Parmesan for richer flavor.
Include a pinch of cardamom for an extra aromatic note.
Use ground turkey and a lighter sauce for a healthier option.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and corn-starch as a thickener.

Storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

What spices are traditional in Swedish meatballs?

Typically, allspice, nutmeg, and white pepper are used for their warm, aromatic flavor.

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator, or freeze them raw for later cooking.

Are Swedish meatballs always served with gravy?

While the creamy sauce is common, some traditional Swedish versions are served simply with potatoes and lingonberry jam.

What sides go well with Swedish meatballs?

Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice pair well, along with lingonberry jam and pickled cucumbers.

Can I freeze the sauce together with the meatballs?

Yes, but the sauce texture may change slightly after thawing. Reheat gently to restore smoothness.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

On the stovetop over gentle heat is best, though the microwave works for smaller portions.

What meat ratio is ideal for texture?

A 2:1 ratio of beef to pork provides the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a corn-starch thickener instead of flour.

What’s an authentic Swedish serving tradition?

They are often served with potatoes, lingonberry jam, and sometimes pickled vegetables.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes, plant-based meat alternatives, chickpeas, or lentils can be used to make a vegetarian variation.

Conclusion

Swedish meatballs are a heartwarming dish that blends rich flavor, tender texture, and comforting aromas. Whether served for a weeknight meal or a festive gathering, they bring a taste of Scandinavian tradition to the table