Swedish Meatballs with Gravy

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and soul, then Swedish Meatballs with Gravy is just what you need! This dish brings together tender meatballs, perfectly spiced and swimming in a creamy, savory gravy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. I’ve cherished this recipe for years because it always brings smiles around the dinner table.

What I love most about these Swedish Meatballs is how versatile they are. You can whip them up for an ordinary Tuesday night or serve them at a festive gathering, and they never fail to delight. Pair them with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, or even some pickled cucumbers for that authentic touch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks but delicious enough to impress seasoned chefs.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! They are great for picky eaters and can be enjoyed by all ages.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of spices and creamy gravy creates a warm and inviting dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients should feel like part of the fun! For this recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 small onion (finely grated or minced)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Gravy

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

This Swedish Meatballs with Gravy recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms or spinach into the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to bring some heat to your meatball dish.

How to Make Swedish Meatballs with Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

Start by combining your breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk. This will keep your meatballs moist and tender. In another bowl, mix together ground beef, grated onion, egg, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add in the breadcrumb mixture and mix gently until everything is just combined—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs!

Step 2: Shape and Cook the Meatballs

Now it’s time to shape your meatballs! Use about two tablespoons of mixture for each ball—this helps keep them uniform in size for even cooking. Heat some butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your meatballs in batches so they don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear them on all sides until they are nicely browned; this step adds flavor!

Step 3: Make the Gravy

After removing the cooked meatballs from the skillet, it’s time for that rich gravy! In the same skillet (don’t wash it out!), melt more butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until golden brown—this creates a roux that will thicken your gravy. Gradually pour in beef broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once thickened, stir in heavy cream and soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Meatballs with Gravy

Carefully return your beautiful meatballs back into the skillet with gravy. Simmer everything together for about 10 minutes so those flavors meld beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed; remember that little extra pinch can make all the difference!

Enjoy serving these delightful Swedish Meatballs with Gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes or alongside some tangy lingonberry jam—either way, you’re sure to create lasting memories!

Pro Tips for Making Swedish Meatballs with Gravy

Making Swedish meatballs is a delightful process, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs absorb moisture better than dried ones, resulting in juicier meatballs that are full of flavor.
• Don’t overmix the meat: Mixing the ingredients just until combined helps keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs that aren’t as enjoyable.
• Test for seasoning: Before cooking all the meatballs, fry a small patty to taste the seasoning. This ensures your flavors are spot on before you commit to the whole batch!
• Keep the gravy smooth: Whisking the flour into the butter before adding the broth prevents lumps, creating a silky gravy that beautifully coats each meatball.
• Adjust for your preference: Feel free to play around with spices! Add garlic powder or onion powder for an extra layer of flavor that suits your taste.

How to Serve Swedish Meatballs with Gravy

Presenting your Swedish meatballs can be just as enjoyable as making them! With thoughtful garnishes and side dishes, you can create an inviting and delicious meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lingonberry sauce: This sweet-tart condiment is a traditional pairing that balances the savory flavors of the meatballs perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are classic companions for Swedish meatballs, soaking up all those delicious gravy flavors.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a healthy crunch and vibrant colors to your plate, making it visually appealing and nutritious.
• Pickled cucumbers: These provide a crisp, tangy contrast to the richness of the gravy, enhancing every bite.
• Egg noodles: Tender egg noodles tossed in butter can serve as a lovely base for your meatballs, offering another comforting texture.

Now you’re all set to create an authentic Scandinavian feast right in your kitchen! Enjoy every bite of these delicious Swedish Meatballs with Gravy.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Swedish Meatballs with Gravy recipe is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food throughout the week or to impress guests without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs and gravy to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the meatballs and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification later.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerator leftovers, simply reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For frozen meatballs, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, or you can reheat directly from frozen over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Swedish Meatballs with Gravy!

Can I make Swedish Meatballs with Gravy ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions provided above.

What can I serve with Swedish Meatballs with Gravy?

These delicious meatballs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, or pickled cucumbers for an authentic Scandinavian experience.

Are there any substitutes for beef broth in Swedish Meatballs with Gravy?

Yes! You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth if you prefer a lighter flavor. Just ensure it aligns with your dietary preferences.

How do I know when my Swedish Meatballs are cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked. A meat thermometer is a handy tool to ensure they’re safe to eat!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Swedish Meatballs with Gravy brings warmth and comfort to your table! It’s a delightful dish that’s not only satisfying but also a joy to prepare. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or sharing it at a gathering, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how yours turned out!