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Swedish Meatballs

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Swedish meatballs, or *köttbullar*, are tender meatballs made from a blend of ground beef and pork, served with creamy gravy and typically accompanied by lingonberry sauce for a sweet and savory balance.

Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef
    1/2 lb ground pork
    1 small onion, finely chopped
    1/4 cup breadcrumbs
    1/4 cup milk
    1 large egg
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
    1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
    For the gravy:
    2 tablespoons butter
    2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    2 cups beef broth
    1/2 cup heavy cream
    1 teaspoon soy sauce
    Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix everything together until fully combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.

  1. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, form the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray as you go.
  2. Fry the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the meatballs to the skillet in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
  3. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking to avoid lumps, and cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in the heavy cream and soy sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Meatballs and Gravy: Return the meatballs to the skillet with the gravy. Let the meatballs simmer in the gravy for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meatballs to soak up the delicious sauce.
  5. Serve: Serve the Swedish meatballs with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, and top with lingonberry sauce for a traditional touch.

Notes

  • Leftover Swedish meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, Swedish meatballs freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Lingonberry sauce is traditional but can be replaced with cranberry sauce or a tart fruit chutney.
  • If you prefer, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying them.

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