Prepare to be transported to the cozy kitchens of Sweden with this authentic, soul-warming recipe that has been delighting families for generations. These Swedish Meatballs are more than just a meal—they’re a nostalgic embrace of tradition, featuring perfectly seasoned meatballs swimming in a luxuriously creamy sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 680g (1.5 lbs) ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 medium onion, finely minced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 3 white bread slices
- 80 ml (1/3 cup) whole milk
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
For the Cream Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 500 ml (2 cups) beef broth
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Mixture:
- Remove crusts from bread slices
- Tear bread into pieces
- Soak in milk for 5 minutes
- Mash until smooth and uniform
- Make the Meatball Mixture:
- Combine ground beef, soaked bread, eggs, salt, spices, minced onion, and garlic
- Mix thoroughly
- Refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld
- Form and Cook Meatballs:
- Shape mixture into 1-inch meatballs
- Heat neutral oil in a large skillet
- Cook meatballs in batches for 6-8 minutes
- Turn to ensure even browning
- Remove and set aside
- Create the Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter
- Whisk in flour and cook until golden
- Gradually add beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps
- Simmer until sauce begins to thicken
- Stir in heavy cream
- Season with salt and pepper
- Final Cooking:
- Return meatballs to skillet
- Simmer in sauce for 5 minutes
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley
Cooking Details
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 380-420
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 28g
Why These Swedish Meatballs Are a Nutritional Delight
These meatballs are not just delicious—they’re a balanced meal packed with nutrition. The lean ground beef provides high-quality protein essential for muscle maintenance, while the unique blend of spices like allspice and nutmeg offers potential anti-inflammatory benefits. The cream sauce, though indulgent, provides calcium and adds a satisfying richness that makes this dish both comforting and nourishing.
Serving Suggestion: Traditionally served over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, these meatballs are versatile and sure to please every palate.
Pro Tip: For an authentic Swedish experience, let the meatballs rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully integrate.