Name: Best Swedish Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 egg; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 tsp allspice; 1/2 tsp nutmeg; 2 tbsp butter (for frying); 2 tbsp butter (for gravy); 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

Swedish meatballs are a classic comfort food featuring tender, spiced meatballs simmered in a rich and creamy gravy. This recipe blends traditional spices like allspice and nutmeg with a velvety sauce, creating a hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup milk

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 egg

1/2 tsp pepper

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp allspice

1/2 tsp nutmeg

2 tbsp butter (for frying)

For the Gravy:

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 cups beef broth

1 tbsp soy sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Meatballs:
I start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes to keep the meatballs moist. Then, I mix the ground beef with the soaked breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg until everything is well combined. Next, I roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

I heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through—this takes about 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, I set the meatballs aside.

Make the Gravy:
Using the same skillet, I melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. I cook this for about 2 minutes until it turns golden. Then, I slowly whisk in the beef broth to avoid lumps, followed by the heavy cream and soy sauce. I let the sauce simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine:
Finally, I return the meatballs to the skillet and stir them into the gravy. I let everything simmer together for 10 minutes so the meatballs soak up the rich flavors.

I usually serve these meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam if I’m feeling traditional, and steamed vegetables or a fresh side salad.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation takes roughly 15 minutes, cooking the meatballs and gravy about 25 minutes, so the total time is around 40 minutes.

Variations

Adding a bit of Dijon mustard to the gravy gives it a nice tangy kick.

For a lighter version, I use half beef and half turkey instead of all beef.

To deepen the flavor, a splash of Worcestershire sauce in the gravy works wonders.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Swedish meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the gravy has thickened too much. They also freeze well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Swedish meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the meatballs and gravy a day ahead. Just store them separately or together in the fridge and reheat gently when ready to serve.

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely. Mixing ground beef with pork or turkey works well. Using turkey makes a lighter dish, while pork adds richness.

What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?

I love serving them with mashed potatoes, boiled or roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or even a fresh side salad. Lingonberry jam is a traditional accompaniment that adds a sweet contrast.

Is there a vegetarian version?

While this recipe is meat-based, you can try using plant-based meat substitutes or lentil-based “meatballs” with a similar spice blend and gravy for a vegetarian take.

Can I make the gravy gluten-free?

Yes, I substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch (mixed with water) to thicken the gravy without gluten.

Conclusion

Making Swedish meatballs at home is a rewarding experience that fills the kitchen with wonderful aromas. I appreciate how this recipe is straightforward yet yields deeply comforting results. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy meal, these meatballs with creamy gravy never fail to impress. I hope you enjoy making and savoring them as much as I do.