Name: Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional); 3 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

1/2 pound ground pork

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup milk

1 large egg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

3 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups beef broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon soy sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, allspice, and parsley if using. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 3: Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

Step 6: Stir in the heavy cream and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes until creamy.

Step 7: Return the meatballs to the skillet with the gravy, gently stirring to coat them in the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.

Step 8: Serve the Swedish meatballs hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. They pair well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, use half ground beef and half ground turkey instead of pork.

Adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the meat mixture can add a subtle depth of flavor.

If you prefer a thicker gravy, cook it a bit longer after adding the cream until it reaches desired consistency.

Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can be added to the gravy for a slightly different twist.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave covered until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatballs and gravy separately for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the meatballs a day ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Cook them just before making the gravy for best freshness.

What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?

Traditional sides include creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed rice. Pickled cucumbers or lingonberry jam also complement the dish nicely.