Authentic Swedish Meatballs Recipe: A Comforting Classic
Swedish meatballs are a classic comfort dish known for their tender texture and warm, spiced flavor. Served in a creamy gravy and traditionally accompanied by mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam, this dish is a staple of Scandinavian cuisine and a favorite for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup whole milk
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 egg
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying)
For the gravy:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5–10 minutes.
Sauté the chopped onion in 1 tbsp butter until soft and translucent. Allow to cool.
Add ground beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, sautéed onion, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix gently until combined.
Form into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs.
Heat 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches until golden on all sides. Transfer to a plate.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
Slowly whisk in beef broth, followed by heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Simmer until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
Return meatballs to the pan. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, noodles, or lingonberry jam.
Notes
For a smoother texture, use finely ground breadcrumbs.
Chill meatballs before cooking for better shape retention.
Substitute beef and pork with turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Gravy can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of broth or cream.