Savory Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Craving a comforting and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with rich, velvety flavors? Look no further than this authentic recipe for Swedish Meatballs. Imagine tender meatballs made from a flavorful blend of ground beef, seasoned with parsley and pepper, and cooked to perfection in a creamy gravy that’s nothing short of indulgent. This Scandinavian classic is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table, whether for cozy family nights or casual get-togethers.

One bite of these Swedish Meatballs, served over buttery egg noodles and garnished with fresh parsley, transports you to a place of pure comfort and satisfaction. The savory gravy, made from beef consomme, milk, and Worcestershire sauce, perfectly complements the richness of the meatballs, creating a dish that’s both familiar and special. With simple pantry ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results that will please everyone at the table. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the taste of Scandinavia right in your own home with these delightful Swedish Meatballs.

Quick Benefits

• Comfort food that pleases everyone at the table
• Restaurant-quality results using simple pantry ingredients
• Make enough to feed a crowd or provide delicious leftovers
• Authentic Scandinavian flavor brought to your dinner table

Why You’ll Love This Savory Swedish Meatballs Recipe Recipe

• Complete comfort food that pleases everyone at the table
• Restaurant quality results using simple pantry ingredients
• Makes enough to feed a crowd or provide delicious leftovers
• Perfect for make-ahead meals and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
• Traditional Swedish meatballs include a mixture of ground beef and pork, but this all-beef version still delivers authentic flavor
• The allspice in this recipe completely transforms the flavor profile, providing unmistakable Swedish flavor
• For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use evaporated milk instead of 2% milk for richness with less fat
• The key to tender meatballs lies in gentle handling of the meat mixture and chilling the formed meatballs before browning
• In Sweden, these meatballs would typically be served with lingonberry jam, or cranberry sauce makes an excellent substitute
• For an authentic Swedish experience, serve alongside cucumber salad and creamy mashed potatoes
• Allow the meatball mixture to rest before shaping to help ingredients bind together
• For the silkiest gravy, make sure milk is at room temperature before adding to the hot roux
• Keep meatballs on the smaller side for faster cooking and better sauce coverage
• These Swedish meatballs allow you to bring authentic Scandinavian flavor to your dinner table with ease while creating a meal that everyone loves

Ingredients for Savory Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Meatballs

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/3 cup minced fresh parsley
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 3/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
• 1 medium onion, chopped

Gravy

• 2 cans (10-1/2 ounces each) condensed beef consomme, undiluted
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2-3/4 cups 2% milk
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

Noodles

• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
• 1 package (16 ounces) egg noodles

Pro Tips for Savory Swedish Meatballs Recipe

To achieve the perfect tender meatballs, handle the mixture gently and refrain from overworking it. Keeping ingredients cold and working quickly is key. Lightly form the meatballs, and chilling them for 15 minutes before browning helps maintain their shape and texture during cooking. This attention to detail ensures a delicate and juicy result that stands out.

For a genuine Swedish flavor experience, don’t skip the allspice and nutmeg, as they provide the characteristic taste profile of Swedish meatballs. Even if you’re not a fan of allspice, give it a try in this recipe for its unique contribution to the dish. Additionally, consider serving the meatballs with lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce for a sweet-tart contrast to the rich gravy. Pairing the meal with cucumber salad provides a refreshing crunch that complements the savory meatballs and noodles, enhancing the overall dining experience.

How to Make Savory Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Combine bread crumbs, onion, eggs, parsley, pepper, salt, and ground beef in a large bowl. Mix lightly but thoroughly and shape into 1-1/2 inch meatballs (approximately 36).

Step 2: Step 02

Brown meatballs in batches in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove meatballs to drain on paper towels using a slotted spoon, and keep drippings in the pan.

Step 3: Step 03

In the reserved drippings, stir flour over medium-high heat until light brown. Avoid burning. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add beef consomme, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, salt, and optional allspice and nutmeg. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Step 04

Lower the heat to medium-low and add the meatballs back to the pan. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Step 05

Prepare noodles as directed on package. Toss drained noodles with butter. Serve with meatball mixture and garnish with parsley.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and cooked the Swedish meatballs with gravy, storing the finished dish properly is essential to maintain its quality. To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate the Swedish meatballs and gravy for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the gravy, as it may thicken upon refrigeration. To freeze the dish, make sure it has cooled entirely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. The Swedish meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stovetop over medium-low heat.

For optimal results when storing the Swedish meatballs, consider separating the meatballs and gravy from any side dishes like egg noodles or mashed potatoes. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the meatballs. Additionally, if you find the gravy has thickened after refrigeration, you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit of milk or broth while reheating. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Swedish meatballs even after they have been cooked, ensuring a convenient and satisfying meal for later consumption.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef. Ground pork can also be used, or a combination of both meats for added flavor complexity.

For a gluten-free option, you can replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Create a slurry with 1/4 cup of cornstarch mixed with cold water before adding it to the hot pan to ensure a smooth consistency.

Feel free to experiment with the seasoning profile of the meatballs by adding a pinch of cardamom or white pepper for a more complex flavor. Additionally, using a mixture of beef and pork, as traditionally done in Sweden, can enhance the richness of the meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

Create a cozy and inviting Swedish meatball dinner by serving the tender meatballs and rich gravy over a bed of buttery egg noodles. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. For a traditional Swedish touch, serve with lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce on the side for a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory flavors perfectly.

To elevate your Swedish meatball experience, consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes instead of egg noodles. The potatoes will soak up the flavorful gravy beautifully, creating a comforting and indulgent meal. Pair the meatballs with a refreshing cucumber salad on the side to add a crunchy texture and a hint of brightness to each bite. Whether you choose noodles or potatoes, this classic dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!

FAQs for Savory Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Can I substitute the ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or a combination of meats for a unique flavor profile.

What should I do if the gravy is too thin?

If the gravy is too thin, mix a small amount of flour with water to form a slurry, then gradually add it to the simmering gravy while stirring.

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Swedish meatballs?

Swedish meatballs pair wonderfully with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli.

Can I prepare the meatballs and gravy in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and gravy in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Conclusion

Indulge in the cozy comfort of homemade Swedish Meatballs – a dish that warms both the belly and the soul. Whether you’re craving a taste of Scandinavia or simply looking for a satisfying meal to share with loved ones, these tender meatballs swimming in rich, velvety gravy are sure to delight. Embrace the simplicity of pantry staples coming together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

With every bite of these Swedish Meatballs, you’re not just enjoying a delicious meal but also experiencing a culinary tradition that has stood the test of time. So take a moment to savor the flavors, share the joy around your table, and let the magic of homemade comfort food bring a smile to your face. Enjoy the process of creating something special in your kitchen, and remember, there’s always room for more Swedish Meatballs in your life!