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Swedish Meatballs

Authentic Swedish Meatballs

The Crispy Chef
Swedish meatballs are a classic comfort food, loved for their rich flavor and creamy sauce. Made with a perfect blend of beef and pork, these bite-sized delights are sure to bring a taste of Swedish tradition to your table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Swedish
Servings 16 meatballs
Calories 456 kcal

Equipment

  • Frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Ingredients
  

For the meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 ratio
  • ¾ cup plain dried breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp ground allspice
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the gravy:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken or beef broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp soy sauce optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, salt, allspice, and black pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  • Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter. Use wet hands to prevent sticking and aim for uniform sizes.
  • Cook the Meatballs: Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Fry the meatballs in batches for about 8-10 minutes, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
  • Make the Gravy: In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until golden. Gradually add the broth and stir until the mixture thickens. Stir in the heavy cream and soy sauce, then simmer for 5 minutes until smooth.
  • Serve: Pour the gravy over the cooked meatballs and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.

Notes

Frozen Meatballs: If using frozen meatballs, cook them according to package instructions before adding to the gravy.
Spices: Traditional Swedish meatballs use allspice and nutmeg for a warm flavor. You can experiment by adding garlic powder or brown sugar for a modern twist.
Gravy Consistency: If the gravy becomes too thick, add more broth to achieve the desired consistency.

Nutrition

Calories: 456kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 24gFat: 36gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg
Keyword beef, creamy sauce, homemade meatballs, Swedish meatballs, traditional cuisine
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