There’s nothing quite like the comfort of Swedish meatballs to bring a family together around the dinner table. When the craving strikes, I often find myself reaching for this delightful recipe that wraps my kitchen in a warm embrace of savory scents. The incredible blend of ground chuck and chicken, along with a sprinkle of nutmeg and allspice, transports me straight to a cozy Scandinavian café, where each bite is rich and satisfying.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility—serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, al dente egg noodles, or even a bed of macaroni to mix things up! And if you’ve got cranberry sauce or lingonberry jam on hand, trust me, you won’t want to skip that tangy touch that beautifully complements the rich gravy.
So, whether you’re seeking a charming recipe for a cozy night in or looking to impress guests with a taste of comfort food that feels gourmet, these Swedish meatballs are your answer. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why are Swedish Meatballs so irresistible?
Comforting, heartwarming meals like these Swedish meatballs are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Savory gravy complements the rich flavors of ground chuck and chicken, creating a delightful experience in every bite. Quick to prepare, you can have this dish on the table in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile serving options allow you to pair these meatballs with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even macaroni. Plus, a dollop of cranberry sauce or lingonberry jam adds the perfect sweet-and-tangy contrast to elevate your meal.
Swedish Meatball Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs – Helps to bind the meat mixture while keeping them tender.
- ½ cup milk – Adds moisture and richness to the meatballs.
- 2 tbsp heavy cream – Infuses a luxurious creaminess into the meat mixture.
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
- ½ tsp kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the meatballs.
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper – Gives a subtle warmth to balance the flavors.
- ¼ tsp ground allspice – Adds a uniquely warm and aromatic flavor typical in Swedish cuisine.
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg – Complements the spices with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tbsp minced fresh parsley – Freshens the mix and adds a pop of color.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter – Adds rich flavor during sautéing.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil – Helps to sauté the onions without burning.
- ½ yellow onion, minced – Provides a savory base flavor when cooked.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – Boosts the flavor profile with its aromatic touch.
- 1 lb. ground chicken – A leaner option that keeps the meatballs moist.
- 1½ lbs. ground chuck – Adds richness and depth to your Swedish meatballs.
For the Gravy
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter – Creates a flavorful base for the gravy.
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the gravy, giving it a lovely texture.
- 14.5 oz. low sodium beef broth – Provides a hearty, meaty flavor for the gravy.
- 14.5 oz. low-sodium chicken broth – Balances the beef broth with lighter notes.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Contributes to the creaminess of the gravy.
- ¾ cup sour cream – Imparts a tangy flavor that complements the richness.
- 1 tsp beef instant bouillon granules – Enhances the beef flavor without overpowering.
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce – Adds a savory depth to the gravy.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard – Introduces a slight tang that livens the dish.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Brings out umami flavors in the gravy.
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar – Provides a bright contrast to the richness.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar – Balances out the tanginess in the gravy.
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper – For an extra kick of flavor.
- Kosher salt, as needed – To taste, enhancing all the delicious components.
- 1-2 tbsp minced fresh parsley – For garnish, adding freshness and color.
- Cranberry sauce or lingonberry jam (optional) – A sweet contrast that elevates the dish.
Dive into this well-rounded ingredient list and prepare for delectable Swedish meatballs that will warm your heart and home!
How to Make Swedish Meatballs
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Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line two large baking sheets with foil, then lightly spray them with nonstick spray to prevent sticking—this will make cleanup a breeze!
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Mix together the breadcrumbs, milk, heavy cream, egg, kosher salt, black pepper, allspice, nutmeg, and minced parsley in a large bowl. Let the mixture sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Sauté 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and cook until translucent, then toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. Add this aromatic mix to the breadcrumb mixture.
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Combine the breadcrumb mixture with the ground chuck and ground chicken. Using a wooden spoon, mix until everything is well incorporated and holds together.
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Form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
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Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
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Prepare the gravy while the meatballs are baking: melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Whisk in the flour with the melted butter and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a light golden color. This is your roux!
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Add the beef broth, chicken broth, heavy cream, sour cream, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Stir and taste for seasoning, adding salt if needed.
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Bring the gravy to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Gently add the baked meatballs to the gravy and simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle in some chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
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Serve the Swedish meatballs hot over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or macaroni. For an interesting touch, add a side of cranberry sauce or lingonberry jam!
Optional: Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Perfect Swedish Meatballs
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Don’t Rush the Soak: Letting the breadcrumb mixture sit for at least 10 minutes ensures the meatballs are tender and flavorful by allowing the bread to absorb moisture.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatballs are perfectly cooked, a meat thermometer should read 165°F at the center. This helps avoid overcooking, keeping them juicy!
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Keep Your Meatballs Uniform: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the meatballs evenly. This ensures they cook uniformly and saves you from unevenly cooked meatballs.
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Sauté for Flavor: Sautéing the onions and garlic not only develops flavor but also enhances the overall aroma of the Swedish meatballs, making your kitchen smell heavenly!
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Thicken Gradually: If your gravy seems too thin, allow it to simmer gently to thicken; avoid adding too much flour all at once, which can create lumps.
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Serve with Style: For an authentic touch, serve your Swedish meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and don’t skip that tangy lingonberry jam for a delightful contrast!
What to Serve with Swedish Meatballs?
Build a comforting meal filled with rich flavors and delightful textures to please every palate.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture of mashed potatoes is the perfect canvas to soak up that savory gravy.
- Al Dente Egg Noodles: Offering a slightly chewy bite, egg noodles complement the meatballs wonderfully while providing an excellent base for all that delicious sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, toasted garlic bread makes for a delightful side, perfect for sopping up extra gravy with every bite.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs nicely with the sweetness of the sauce, adding a fresh, vibrant element.
- Cranberry Sauce: A sweet and tart cranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment that brightens the rich flavors of the meatballs.
- Lingonberry Jam: This traditional Swedish touch adds an authentic flair, bringing a delicious contrast to the savory gravy.
- A Light Salad: A simple mixed salad with a tangy vinaigrette can refresh the palate and balance the richness of the meatballs.
- Warm Applesauce: For a homestyle feel, serve warm applesauce as a sweet side that harmonizes beautifully with the spices in the meatballs.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine enhances the flavors of the dish and brings an elegant touch to your meal.
How to Store and Freeze Swedish Meatballs
Fridge: Store leftover Swedish meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick reheat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat thawed meatballs in a skillet with a splash of broth or gravy over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring gently until heated through.
Sauce Storage: If you have leftover gravy, store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. This way, you can keep your Swedish meatballs and gravy flavors intact!
Swedish Meatballs Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on this classic to make it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and sour cream with coconut milk and a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a creamy texture without the dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make these meatballs and gravy suitable for those avoiding gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a delightful spicy twist that will surprise your taste buds.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or thyme in place of parsley for a fragrant botanical note in the meatballs.
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Hearty Veggies: Stir in finely chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini to the meat mixture for added texture and nutrition while keeping them moist.
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Meat Mix-Up: Try using a combination of turkey and pork instead of chicken and beef for a lighter yet equally delicious variation of meatballs.
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Sweet Tanginess: Replace sugar with a bit of maple syrup or honey for a naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory gravy.
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Cranberry Sauce Upgrade: Instead of regular cranberry sauce, try a spiced version with hints of orange and cinnamon for a festive twist to your dish.
Embrace these variations to fit your family’s taste—after all, every meal is an opportunity to create new traditions at your table!
Make Ahead Options
These Swedish meatballs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the meatball mixture and roll them into balls up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. The gravy can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge—just reheat gently before adding the meatballs. When it’s time to serve, bake the meatballs as directed, then simmer them in the warmed gravy until heated through. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delicious Swedish meatballs with minimal effort on your busy night!
Swedish Meatballs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for Swedish Meatballs?
Absolutely! When selecting your ground meats, look for a good blend—ground chuck and ground chicken add great flavor and moisture. For the breadcrumbs, opt for fresh ones to ensure the meatballs are tender. Fresh herbs like parsley should be vibrantly green, and always check your spices for freshness to enhance the overall flavor!
How should I store leftover Swedish Meatballs?
After enjoying your delicious Swedish meatballs, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you have gravy left over, keep it in a separate container; this helps maintain the meatballs’ texture.
Can I freeze Swedish Meatballs for later use?
Very! To freeze, first place the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm them in a skillet with broth or gravy until heated through.
What if my meatballs are too dry?
If you find that your meatballs turn out dry, it could be due to overcooking or using lean meat. I recommend making sure to use a mix of meats and keeping an eye on the cooking time. If you want to add moisture back in, gently stir in a little extra broth or a splash of cream while reheating.
Are Swedish Meatballs safe for dietary restrictions?
If you have dietary considerations, such as allergies, you can adjust the recipe. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option, or swap heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative. Always check that your broths and sauces are low in sodium and free from allergens to suit your guests’ needs.
What can I serve with Swedish Meatballs?
I often serve these Swedish meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a bed of macaroni. Each of these sides really soak up the rich gravy. Don’t forget the cranberry sauce or lingonberry jam on the side; it adds a delightful balance to the savory flavors!
Savory Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line two large baking sheets with foil, then lightly spray them with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix together the breadcrumbs, milk, heavy cream, egg, kosher salt, black pepper, allspice, nutmeg, and minced parsley in a large bowl. Let the mixture sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Sauté 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and cook until translucent, then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Combine the breadcrumb mixture with the ground chuck and ground chicken. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
- Prepare the gravy while the meatballs are baking: melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour with the melted butter and cook over medium-low heat, stirring until the mixture turns a light golden color.
- Add the beef broth, chicken broth, heavy cream, sour cream, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper.
- Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Gently add the baked meatballs to the gravy and simmer until thickened.
- Serve the Swedish meatballs hot over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or macaroni.