Swedish meatballs drenched in rich, velvety gravy create a cozy aroma that wraps around you like your favorite blanket on a chilly evening. Each bite bursts with flavor, transporting you straight to a quaint Scandinavian kitchen where the delightful scent of spices fills the air.
I fondly remember the first time I tried this mouthwatering dish at my grandmother’s house during our family gatherings. The laughter and chatter were always accompanied by her famous Swedish meatballs gravy, creating memories that still warm my heart today.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Swedish meatballs are easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners
- The flavor profile is a heavenly blend of spices and savory goodness
- Visually, they are stunningly appealing, swimming in a creamy gravy that makes your mouth water
- Versatile enough for any occasion—be it a festive feast or casual get-together—these meatballs never disappoint
One memorable evening, my friends devoured these meatballs so quickly that I barely got to taste them myself!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.
Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for a juicy and flavorful result.
Ground Pork: Using pork adds richness and moisture to your meatball mixture.
Breadcrumbs: Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs while ensuring they remain tender.
Onion: Finely minced onion infuses flavor; sautéing it beforehand brings out its natural sweetness.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; they add an aromatic touch to the dish.
Eggs: A couple of eggs act as a binder, keeping your meatballs from crumbling apart.
Milk: Adding milk keeps the meatballs moist and enhances their creaminess.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors present in the dish.
For the Gravy:
Butter: Start with butter as the base for your gravy; it contributes to a rich, silky texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour thickens your gravy beautifully; be sure not to skip this step!
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth for a balanced flavor profile without overwhelming saltiness.
Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce adds depth and umami flavor to your gravy.
Heavy Cream: Add heavy cream for an extra luxurious touch; it makes everything taste indulgently good.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Swedish Meatballs Gravy
Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork with breadcrumbs, minced onion, garlic, eggs, and milk until well blended. Use clean hands for best results.
Create Meatballs: Roll small portions of the mixture into balls about one inch in diameter. Place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper as you go.
Sear the Meatballs: Heat oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Working in batches, sear each meatball until they turn golden brown all over—about 4-5 minutes per side—without overcrowding the pan.
Melt Butter for Gravy: In the same skillet after removing meatballs, melt butter over medium heat while scraping up any bits left behind for added flavor.
Add Flour: Whisk flour into melted butter until smooth; cook for about one minute until lightly golden.
Pour in Broth and Cream: Gradually whisk in beef broth and soy sauce while stirring continuously. Once thickened slightly, reduce heat before adding heavy cream to create that luscious gravy texture.
Serve those delightful Swedish meatballs nestled in their creamy gravy alongside mashed potatoes or egg noodles for an unforgettable meal experience!
You Must Know
- Mastering Swedish meatballs and gravy is not just about flavor; it’s an art!
- The aroma while cooking will make your neighbors suspiciously hungry
- Don’t forget the texture; soft meatballs paired with creamy gravy create a cozy comfort food experience that’s hard to resist
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs in a skillet, then prepare the gravy while they cook. This method ensures everything is hot and ready simultaneously for that perfect meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional beef for turkey or even plant-based options. A dash of nutmeg or allspice can add a unique twist to your gravy and meatballs. For more inspiration, check out this hearty lunch options recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid dry meatballs, ensure you don’t overmix the meat mixture
- Letting your meatballs rest before cooking helps them retain moisture
- For extra creamy gravy, whisk constantly while adding broth to prevent lumps
Sharing my first experience making Swedish meatballs was hilarious; I accidentally used too much nutmeg and transformed dinner into a spice adventure everyone still talks about!
FAQ
What type of meat is best for Swedish Meatballs Gravy?
Mixing ground beef with pork creates juicy and flavorful meatballs perfect for gravy.
Can I make Swedish Meatballs Gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything ahead and reheat before serving for convenience.
How do I thicken the gravy for Swedish Meatballs?
Cornstarch slurry or a roux works wonders to achieve that desired thickness in your gravy.
Swedish Meatballs with Gravy
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Swedish meatballs smothered in creamy gravy are the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. Each tender morsel is infused with a blend of spices, offering a taste of Scandinavian tradition right in your home. Whether served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, these meatballs will warm both your heart and your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, finely minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, minced onion, garlic, eggs, and milk until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into one-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear meatballs in batches until golden brown (about 4–5 minutes per side).
- Remove meatballs; melt butter in the same skillet and whisk in flour until smooth. Cook for one minute.
- Gradually add beef broth and soy sauce, stirring continuously until thickened. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream.
- Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Scandinavian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding nutmeg or allspice to the meatball mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter version. To keep meatballs moist, avoid overmixing and allow them to rest before cooking.
