The Ultimate Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs are a classic and comforting dish that everyone loves. This homemade recipe will guide you through the process of making flavorful meatballs from scratch, paired with a creamy gravy that brings all the flavors together. Serve them with mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a satisfying meal that will transport you to Sweden. Don't forget to top it off with lingonberry jam for an authentic touch. Let's get started!

Swedish meatballs are not only popular in Sweden but also worldwide, thanks to the global reach of IKEA. IKEA, the well-known Swedish furniture retailer, includes Swedish meatballs on its menu in many countries. This has contributed to the widespread popularity and recognition of Swedish meatballs as a delicious and comforting dish.

Lingonberry jam is a traditional accompaniment to Swedish meatballs. Lingonberries are small red berries that grow abundantly in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries. The tart and slightly sweet flavor of lingonberry jam complements the savory meatballs and adds a unique touch to the dish. It is commonly served alongside Swedish meatballs to balance the flavors and provide a burst of bright color.

FAQs

What is the secret to making tender Swedish meatballs?
The key to tender Swedish meatballs is mixing the meat mixture gently, using Panko breadcrumbs to help keep them light, and baking the meatballs at the right temperature.
Can I make Swedish meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat them in the gravy when ready to serve.
What can I serve Swedish meatballs with besides mashed potatoes?
Swedish meatballs are often served with mashed potatoes, but they also pair well with egg noodles, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Can I use only ground beef for Swedish meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute the ground pork with additional ground beef, but traditionally, a mix of beef and pork gives the meatballs a richer flavor and texture.
How do I make Swedish meatballs gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. Also, ensure the beef stock is gluten-free.
Can I freeze Swedish meatballs with gravy?
Yes, you can freeze Swedish meatballs with gravy. Freeze the meatballs separately from the gravy, then reheat them in a pan when ready to serve.
How do I thicken Swedish meatball gravy?
If your gravy is too thin, you can add a little more flour or cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it, or let it simmer for a bit longer.
What is the difference between Swedish meatballs and regular meatballs?
Swedish meatballs are typically smaller, made with a blend of beef and pork, and served with a creamy gravy. They often include spices like allspice and nutmeg, giving them a distinct flavor.
Can I make Swedish meatballs in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the meatballs first, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the gravy to cook on low for 4-6 hours.
What makes Swedish meatball gravy different from other gravies?
Swedish meatball gravy is creamy and rich, typically made with beef stock and sour cream, while other gravies may be thicker and more savory without the creamy texture.
How do I know when Swedish meatballs are fully cooked?
Swedish meatballs are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer.
Can I make Swedish meatballs without sour cream?
Yes, if you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with heavy cream or crème fraîche for a similar creamy texture.
How do I make Swedish meatballs spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or gravy for a bit of heat.
What are the best spices for Swedish meatballs?
Allspice and nutmeg are the traditional spices for Swedish meatballs, giving them their signature warm, aromatic flavor.
What is the origin of Swedish meatballs?
Swedish meatballs, or Köttbullar, have been a part of Swedish cuisine for centuries. They became famous internationally after being served at IKEA, where they’re often paired with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes.

Make it

Homemade Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy Recipe

Ingredients:

For the meatballs:

1 small onion, finely minced
1 tablespoon butter
Pinch of salt
2/3 cup Panko bread crumbs
1/4 cup whole milk
1 pound lean ground beef
1 pound ground pork
1 large egg
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the gravy:

3 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups beef stock
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup sour cream

Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

Prepare the Meatballs:
- Finely mince the small onion using a food processor or by hand.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced onion and a pinch of salt, sauté for about 5 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and set it aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Panko bread crumbs, whole milk, ground beef, ground pork, egg, allspice, ground nutmeg, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
- Using clean hands, scoop the meatball mixture with an ice cream scoop and shape it into meatballs on a baking tray.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the meatballs for 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Prepare the Gravy:
- In the same skillet used for sautéing the onion, melt the butter over medium heat. Add all-purpose flour and cook it for about 30 seconds.
- Gradually add beef stock to the skillet, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
Simmer the Meatballs in Gravy:
- Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the simmering gravy and let them cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the gravy to thicken.
- Add the sour cream and mix it with the gravy until fully incorporated.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C).
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the Swedish meatballs with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles and lingonberry jam for an authentic Swedish touch.

Cooking Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 470 kcal
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 750mg
Cholesterol: 110mg

Conclusion:
This homemade Swedish meatballs recipe delivers a delicious, comforting meal with tender meatballs in a creamy, flavorful gravy. Paired with mashed potatoes or egg noodles and a touch of lingonberry jam, it’s a meal that will transport you straight to Sweden. Enjoy!

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