Irresistible Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy Recipe

Swedish meatballs are like little pillows of happiness, bursting with flavor and smothered in a creamy sauce that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Picture this: tender, juicy meatballs swimming in a rich gravy, served over fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s comfort food at its finest! The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in like moths to a flame, eagerly awaiting the feast.

Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I tried Swedish meatballs; it was at a quaint little restaurant where the decor made you feel like you’d stepped into a cozy Nordic cabin. The moment I took my first bite, I felt warmth inside and out. Now, they’ve become my go-to dish for family gatherings or even those “I need something comforting” nights. Trust me; once you try these flavors, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients for Swedish Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef or Turkey: Use lean ground beef or turkey for juicy meatballs that won’t leave you feeling heavy.
• Breadcrumbs: These act as a binding agent to keep your meatballs moist and flavorful.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a punch of flavor that elevates these meatballs to another level.
• Egg: One egg helps bind everything together, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
• Milk: A splash of milk keeps the meatballs moist and tender while adding richness.

For the Sauce:

• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth as the base of your savory sauce for ultimate flavor control.
• Heavy Cream: For that luscious texture, heavy cream transforms the broth into a velvety sauce.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Swedish Meatballs

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, and milk. Mix until well combined but don’t overdo it; we want tender meatballs, not tough ones!

Step 2: Season Well

Sprinkle in salt and pepper along with any other spices you love such as nutmeg or allspice for that classic Swedish touch. Remember to taste-test (just don’t eat raw meat—save some for cooking!).

Step 3: Shape Those Meatballs

With clean hands (or use gloves if you’re fancy), scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into balls about an inch in diameter. Place them on a plate as you go; it’s like making little savory friends!

Step 4: Brown Them Up

In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil and once it’s hot enough (not smoking!), gently place your meatballs in there. Brown them on all sides for about six minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Remove the meatballs from the skillet temporarily. In that same pan (because we love flavor), add beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard until combined.

Step 6: Combine It All

Return those glorious meatballs back into the sauce and let them simmer for another five minutes so they soak up all that deliciousness.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Serve alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or pasta; just know it’s going to be hard not to go back for seconds (or thirds!). Enjoy every bite of these delightful Swedish meatballs—you deserve it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your meatball ingredients before rolling them into small balls. Sear the meatballs in a hot skillet until browned, then simmer them in a rich sauce to finish cooking. This sequence ensures maximum flavor and tenderness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground chicken for turkey or even beef if you’re feeling adventurous. Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an aromatic kick, or toss in some grated cheese for extra creaminess.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Swedish meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove with a splash of broth or sauce until heated through.

I once made Swedish meatballs for a potluck, and they vanished faster than my willpower at a dessert table. Friends kept asking for my “secret” recipe, which was really just lots of love (and maybe a dash of garlic).

FAQs :

What are Swedish Meatballs made of?

Swedish meatballs typically consist of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a blend of spices. For a delicious twist, you can use ground beef, turkey, or lamb instead of pork. The mixture often includes onion, garlic, and herbs for added flavor. A creamy sauce made from broth and plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar enhances the dish. Serve the meatballs with mashed potatoes or lingonberry sauce for a traditional touch.

Can I make Swedish Meatballs without gluten?

Absolutely! To create gluten-free Swedish meatballs, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Ground oats or almond flour also work well as binding agents. Ensure that the sauces and broths you use are gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe. This way, everyone can enjoy these flavorful meatballs without compromising their dietary needs.

How do I store leftover Swedish Meatballs?

To store leftover Swedish meatballs, allow them to cool completely after cooking. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them instead. When frozen properly in a sealed bag or container, they can last up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving to enjoy their delightful flavors once again.

Can I use plant-based meat for Swedish Meatballs?

Yes! Plant-based alternatives like lentils or chickpeas can replace traditional meats in Swedish meatballs. You can also find pre-made plant-based ground meat products that mimic beef or turkey textures. Combine cooked lentils with breadcrumbs and spices for a hearty vegetarian option. With the right seasoning and sauce, plant-based Swedish meatballs can be just as satisfying as their meaty counterparts.

Conclusion for Swedish Meatballs :

In conclusion, making delicious Swedish meatballs is simple and adaptable to various dietary preferences. By using alternative meats like beef or turkey and incorporating gluten-free ingredients when necessary, everyone can savor this classic dish. Remember to pair your meatballs with creamy sauces and sides like mashed potatoes for an authentic experience. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or enjoying leftovers, these flavorful bites will surely please any palate.

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Swedish Meatballs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Swedish meatballs are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any dining table. These tender, flavorful meatballs are simmered in a rich, creamy sauce and served over fluffy mashed potatoes or pasta, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights. This easy recipe guarantees a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, and milk. Season with salt and pepper until well mixed.
2. Shape the mixture into balls about one inch in diameter.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs for about six minutes until golden brown.
4. Remove the meatballs and add beef broth to the same pan; bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard until well combined.
6. Return the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for an additional five minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Swedish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 90mg