Swedish Meatballs

Introduction

Get ready for a cozy and delicious meal with these classic Swedish meatballs served in a rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish combines the savory flavors of beef and pork with warm spices, all complemented by a delectable sauce.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 500g ground beef
– 250g ground pork
– 150g breadcrumbs
– 1 large egg
– 60ml milk
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/4 tsp ground allspice
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 30ml olive oil (for frying)

For the gravy:
– 500ml beef broth
– 250ml heavy cream
– 30g all-purpose flour
– 50g unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. You should have about 30-35 meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
5. Slowly whisk in beef broth until smooth and well combined. Add heavy cream and continue to whisk until the gravy thickens slightly.
6. Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning gravy over them. Simmer on low for 10 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. You should have about 30-35 meatballs in total.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides until they develop a nice golden color. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Roux

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a roux, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 5: Prepare the Gravy

Slowly whisk in beef broth until smooth and well combined. Then, add the heavy cream and continue to whisk until the gravy thickens slightly.

Step 6: Simmer the Meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Taste and season with salt and pepper to your preference, if needed. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Swedish meatballs with creamy gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or lingonberry sauce for a traditional touch.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Freezing Instructions

These meatballs can be frozen after cooking. Allow to cool, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave when ready to enjoy.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Allow the Swedish meatballs and gravy to cool to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, the meatballs can be frozen. Place the cooled meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will maintain their best quality for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm gently on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Swedish meatballs with creamy gravy over a bed of egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice for a hearty meal. Pair the dish with a side of lingonberry sauce for a sweet contrast. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. This dish can be accompanied by steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately 5 meatballs with gravy):
– Calories: 465
– Protein: 22g
– Fat: 32g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 1g
– Sugar: 2g
– Sodium: 620mg

The nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make adjustments based on dietary preferences or restrictions, consider the following substitutions:

Ground Meat

Use all ground beef or ground turkey instead of a mix of beef and pork for a leaner option.

Breadcrumbs

For gluten-free meatballs, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.

Milk

Dairy-free milk such as almond or oat milk can be used instead of regular milk.

Heavy Cream

Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.

Butter

Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative in place of unsalted butter for the gravy.

Cook Techniques

Mixing Meatballs

When combining the meats, breadcrumbs, egg, and spices, ensure you mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Shaping Meatballs

Use your hands to roll the mixture into uniform balls of about 1 inch in diameter for even cooking. Wetting your hands can help prevent sticking.

Browning Meatballs

Brown the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming rather than browning.

Making Roux

Cook the flour with butter for about a minute to create a roux. This helps thicken the gravy and adds depth of flavor.

Whisking Gravy

When adding beef broth and cream, whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.

Simmering Meatballs

Simmer the meatballs in the gravy on low heat, allowing them to absorb the flavors while ensuring they cook through without drying out.

Garnishing

Chop fresh parsley for a colorful garnish just before serving, enhancing the dish’s presentation and flavor.

FAQ

Can I use only ground beef for the meatballs?

Yes, you can substitute ground pork with more ground beef, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, oats, or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a different texture.

How do I store leftover meatballs and gravy?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Can I freeze cooked meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs in the gravy. Allow them to cool, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?

Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, or buttered noodles.

Is there a way to lighten the gravy?

You can use lower-fat cream or milk, but the richness of the gravy may be reduced. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

Conclusion

Indulging in Swedish meatballs with creamy gravy is a comforting experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. The combination of tender meatballs and a rich sauce is sure to delight your family and friends, making it a timeless favorite for dinner gatherings and special occasions. Elevate your dining experience and enjoy the delightful flavors that this recipe has to offer!

More recipes suggestions and combination

Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

Combine the meatballs with cooked pasta, a creamy sauce, and shredded cheese, then bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.

Swedish Meatball Sub

Serve the meatballs in a crusty sub roll, topped with creamy gravy and fresh herbs for a delicious sandwich twist.

Meatball Stroganoff

Use the meatballs in a classic stroganoff sauce with mushrooms and serve over egg noodles for a hearty meal.

Swedish Meatball Soup

Add the meatballs to a flavorful broth with vegetables and noodles for a warm and filling soup option.

Meatball and Rice Casserole

Layer meatballs with cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and cheese, then bake for a simple, satisfying dish.

Swedish Meatball Lettuce Wraps

For a lighter option, serve meatballs wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves with a tangy dipping sauce.

Mini Meatballs Appetizer

Prepare smaller versions of the meatballs, serve with toothpicks, and drizzle with gravy for a delightful appetizer at parties.