Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 4-6 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Quick Answer
Swedish meatballs are tender, flavorful bites simmered in a creamy gravy, perfect for cozy gatherings during the holiday season.
If there's one dish that warms the heart and feeds the soul during the chilly months in New York City, it's Swedish meatballs. As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, I find myself craving these tender bites of goodness that remind me of cozy family gatherings and festive holiday meals. Today, I'm excited to share with you a fantastic recipe that I've tested meticulously until it's simply perfect for your Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts!
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and heartwarming dish perfect for chilly nights.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients that deliver fantastic flavor.
- Great for holiday gatherings, bringing family and friends together.
- Versatile meal option that can be served with various sides.
- Leftovers freeze beautifully for quick meals later.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious Swedish meatballs:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- ½ pound ground pork
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of allspice
For the Gravy:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Swedish Meatballs (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create mouthwatering Swedish meatballs and gravy:
Step 1: Prep the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and allspice. The aroma of garlic and onion fills the air as you mix everything gently with your hands until just combined.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter. The texture should feel slightly sticky, which indicates that they will be nicely moist after cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. In batches, add the meatballs to the pan and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-8 minutes, enjoying the rich, nutty aroma as they brown.
Step 4: Prepare the Gravy
After cooking the meatballs, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Add butter to the pan, letting it melt, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in beef broth and bring to a simmer, stirring continuously until thickened. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine
Return the meatballs to the skillet with the gravy and let them simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing them to soak up the delicious flavor while the gravy thickens.
Step 6: Serve
Arrange the meatballs on a platter, drench them in creamy gravy, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. The sight of these Swedish meatballs will surely be a highlight of your holiday gatherings!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meat Mixture: This can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
- Cooking at Too High a Temperature: It may burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. A medium heat is perfect.
- Not Letting the Gravy Thicken: Make sure to whisk constantly and allow the roux sufficient time to develop before adding liquids.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- If you want to add some flavor depth, consider incorporating a small amount of grated nutmeg into the meatball mixture.
- Serve these meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes or over egg noodles for a comforting meal.
- These meatballs freeze beautifully! Make a double batch and save some for busy weeknights.
Variations
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for added texture.
- Add finely chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Experiment with different spices such as cumin or coriander for unique flavors.
How to Serve
- Arrange meatballs on a festive platter and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve alongside lingonberry sauce for a traditional touch.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a hearty meal.
- Offer crusty bread on the side for dipping in the gravy.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and gravy in advance, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Storage: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
- Freezing: Meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through my testing of this Swedish meatball recipe, I discovered that simplicity is key to showcasing the flavors of the ingredients. Balancing the spice blend is crucial for that authentic taste. Nothing beats the comfort of a homemade dish during the holiday season, and these meatballs will surely bring warmth to your festivities.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 24 meatballs · Serving Size: 4 meatballs
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~320 calories · 18g protein · 12g carbs · 25g fat
Recipe by:
Comforting Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and allspice. The aroma of garlic and onion fills the air as you mix everything gently with your hands until just combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter. The texture should feel slightly sticky, which indicates that they will be nicely moist after cooking.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. In batches, add the meatballs to the pan and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-8 minutes, enjoying the rich, nutty aroma as they brown.
- After cooking the meatballs, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Add butter to the pan, letting it melt, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in beef broth and bring to a simmer, stirring continuously until thickened. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet with the gravy and let them simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing them to soak up the delicious flavor while the gravy thickens.
- Arrange the meatballs on a platter, drench them in creamy gravy, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. The sight of these Swedish meatballs will surely be a highlight of your holiday gatherings!
Notes
FAQs
Can I make Swedish meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and cook them ahead of time. Just reheat them in the gravy before serving for the best flavor.
What is the best way to freeze Swedish meatballs?
Allow the meatballs to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
