Introduction
Indulge in a comforting and classic dish with these Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs. Combining tender beef and pork with a creamy, flavorful gravy, this meal is perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Minced beef
500g
Minced pork
250g
Bread crumbs
60g
Whole milk
100ml
Onion, finely chopped
50g
Eggs
2 pieces
All-purpose flour
30g
Unsalted butter
50g
Beef broth
500ml
Heavy cream
100ml
Soy sauce
10ml
Dijon mustard
10g
Salt
5g
Black pepper
2g
Olive oil
15ml
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine minced beef, minced pork, bread crumbs, whole milk, chopped onion, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Shape the Meatballs
Shape the meat mixture into small round meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
Sauté the Meatballs
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
Make the Gravy
Add the unsalted butter to the pot, allowing it to melt. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
Add Liquid Ingredients
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the soy sauce and Dijon mustard.
Pressure Cook the Meatballs
Return the meatballs to the pot, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Release Pressure and Stir in Cream
Once cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of pressure. Carefully remove the lid and stir in heavy cream to the gravy for added richness.
Serve
Serve the Swedish meatballs hot, drizzled with the creamy gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Beef and Pork Ratios
Feel free to adjust the ratio of beef to pork according to your personal preference.
Gravy Thickness
For a thicker gravy, you can add a cornstarch slurry made with cornstarch and cold water after pressure cooking.
Storage Suggestions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or pasta for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Keep leftover Swedish meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container or storage bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of beef broth or cream while reheating to maintain the gravy’s consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Swedish meatballs over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy gravy. For a complete meal, pair with steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for added flavor and color. For a special touch, serve with cranberry sauce or lingonberry jam on the side for a traditional pairing.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 4 meatballs with gravy):
Calories: 400
Protein: 25g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 650mg
Cholesterol: 120mg
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and preparations used.)
Ingredient Substitutions
– Minced beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
– Minced pork can be replaced with ground veal or turkey for a different flavor profile.
– Bread crumbs may be swapped with crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
– Whole milk can be replaced with any plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) if dairy-free.
– Heavy cream can be substituted with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
– Olive oil can be replaced with avocado oil or vegetable oil.
– Soy sauce can be substituted with tamari for a gluten-free option.
– Dijon mustard can be replaced with yellow mustard or omitted for a milder taste.
Cook techniques
Mixing Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, ensure that minced beef, minced pork, bread crumbs, whole milk, chopped onion, eggs, salt, and black pepper are thoroughly combined for even flavor.
Shaping Meatballs
Roll the meat mixture into small, uniform balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter to ensure even cooking.
Browning Meatballs
Use the sauté mode on the Instant Pot to brown meatballs on all sides, enhancing their flavor before pressure cooking.
Making the Gravy
After browning the meatballs, create a roux by adding butter and flour to the pot, cooking until golden brown, then gradually whisking in beef broth to prevent lumps.
Pressure Cooking
Seal the Instant Pot and cook the meatballs in the gravy on high pressure for 8 minutes for tender results.
Quick Pressure Release
After cooking, perform a quick release to safely release steam and open the Instant Pot lid without delay.
Adding Cream
Stir in heavy cream after cooking to elevate the richness and texture of the gravy.
Serving
Serve the meatballs hot, drizzled with creamy gravy, and garnish as desired for presentation.
FAQ
Can I use just beef for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use only minced beef if preferred, but the mix of beef and pork adds a richer flavor and tenderness.
How can I make the meatballs gluten-free?
Substitute bread crumbs with gluten-free options, such as almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, cooked meatballs can be frozen. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How do I adjust the seasoning?
Taste the meat mixture before shaping the meatballs and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?
Swedish meatballs are delicious served with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, complemented by a side of vegetables.
Conclusion
The Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy are an incredibly satisfying dish that combines savory flavors and a rich sauce, making it a perfect choice for family meals or special occasions. The ease of preparation using the Instant Pot allows you to enjoy this classic comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender meatballs coated in a luscious creamy gravy, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce
Serve these meatballs with a side of tart lingonberry sauce for an authentic Swedish touch that balances the richness of the gravy.
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
Swap meatballs for chicken thighs and sauté garlic and mushrooms for a delicious twist, creating a creamy, savory sauce perfect over rice or pasta.
Beef and Pork Meatball Subs
Use the same meatball mixture to create hearty meatball subs, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese in a soft sub roll.
Instant Pot Meatball Stroganoff
Transform the meatballs and gravy into a stroganoff by adding egg noodles and extra heavy cream for a hearty pasta dish.
Vegetarian Meatballs
Make a plant-based version using lentils, oats, and spices, then simmer in a creamy mushroom sauce for a delicious vegetarian meal.
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Create a fusion dish with sweet and sour sauce and pineapple, served over rice for a unique take on classic meatballs.