Indulge in the rich and savory taste of Swedish meatballs, a dish that has won hearts worldwide. This recipe combines tender meatballs with a creamy, flavorful sauce, making it an ideal comfort food. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress. Follow our simple steps to create a dish that brings a slice of Sweden to your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon allspice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe), Swedish meatballs contain approximately: 450 calories, 30g protein, 30g fat, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, and chopped onion.
2. Add milk, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice to the meat mixture.
3. Mix until well combined, then form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add meatballs to the skillet and brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Once browned, remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
7. In the same skillet, add beef broth and scrape up any browned bits.
8. Bring broth to a simmer and return the meatballs to the skillet.
9. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
10. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes until sauce thickens.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. Additionally, plant-based meat alternatives can be used for a vegetarian take on this classic dish.
Serving and Pairings
Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes or lingonberry sauce. They also pair well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. These meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the meat can lead to tough meatballs.
- Not browning the meatballs can result in a lack of flavor.
- Using too much breading can make them dense.
- Skipping the simmering step may lead to undercooked meatballs.
- Not adjusting seasoning can leave the dish bland.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs.
- Let the meat mixture rest before forming meatballs for better texture.
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Experiment with different spices to personalize your recipe.
- Always taste your mixture before cooking to adjust seasoning.
FAQs
Can I use only one type of meat?
Yes, you can use just ground beef or pork, but a combination typically yields the best flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?
They are commonly served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, or egg noodles for a complete meal.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them uncooked or cooked in the fridge or freezer.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for ground beef and pork. Alternatively, cut one in half to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, they freeze well! Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Swedish meatballs are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make for a comforting meal. They are easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed at home or served at a gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious.
Swedish Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, and chopped onion.
- Add milk, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice to the meat mixture.
- Mix until well combined, then form into small meatballs.
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add meatballs to the skillet and brown on all sides.
- Once browned, remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add beef broth and scrape up any browned bits.
- Bring broth to a simmer and return the meatballs to the skillet.
- Cover and cook for 15 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes until sauce thickens.
Nutrition
