Swedish Meatballs Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Name: Swedish Meatballs
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 0.5 cup yellow onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs; 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg, whisked; 0.33 cup milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon oregano; 0.25 teaspoon ground allspice; 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon pepper; 0.75 pound ground beef (80% lean); 0.5 pound ground beef; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 tablespoons flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cube chicken bouillon; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 0.5 cup sour cream, at room temperature

Introduction to Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs are a beloved dish, known for their tender texture and rich, creamy sauce. This classic comfort food is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to warm you up in the winter or a tasty dish to impress your guests, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!

A Personal Story Behind My Swedish Meatballs Journey

Growing up, my family had a tradition of making Swedish meatballs on special occasions. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filling the kitchen always brought back fond memories of laughter and togetherness. Every bite of those tender meatballs smothered in creamy sauce reminded me of home. Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you, so you can create your own delicious memories!

What Makes This Swedish Meatballs Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out because of its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground beef and pork creates a rich, savory taste, while the spices like allspice and nutmeg add warmth and depth. The creamy sauce, made with sour cream and beef broth, pairs beautifully with the meatballs, making each bite irresistibly comforting. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

The Full Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, whisked
1/3 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3/4 lb. ground beef (80% lean)
1/2 lb. ground beef
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons flour
2 cups beef broth
1 cube chicken bouillon
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature

Instructions

Heat half of the olive oil in a large, high-walled skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic. Cook until softened for about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool. Tip: Make sure not to brown the onions; you want them translucent.
In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, whisked egg, milk, cooled onions/garlic, salt, oregano, allspice, nutmeg, and pepper. Gently fold in the ground beef until just combined. Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on a plate. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes or up to overnight. Tip: Chilling helps the meatballs hold their shape while cooking.
In a measuring cup, combine beef broth, chicken bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and parsley. Set aside.
Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, about 1 minute per side. Set aside. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this ensures even browning.
Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes until it browns slightly. Tip: Stir constantly to prevent burning.
Gradually add the beef broth mixture, stirring continuously. Bring to a boil, then simmer. Tip: This will help thicken your sauce.
Place sour cream in a bowl, add some sauce, and mix well. Stir this mixture back into the sauce until combined.
Return the meatballs to the skillet along with any juices. Spoon the sauce over them. Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes until cooked through. Tip: Make sure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 160°F.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Tip: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan can elevate the dish!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs are incredibly versatile! Serve them over fluffy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a classic touch. You can also pair them with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a fun twist, try serving them in a sub sandwich with melted cheese or on skewers for a party appetizer. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices; adding a pinch of cayenne can spice things up a bit!

Frequently Asked Questions About Swedish Meatballs

Can I freeze Swedish meatballs? Yes, they freeze very well! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

What can I substitute for sour cream? Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

How do I know when meatballs are done cooking? The best way to check is with a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.