Swedish Meatballs with Gravy

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, these Swedish Meatballs with Gravy are just what you need. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines tender meatballs with a rich, creamy gravy that feels like a big hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish can easily turn any ordinary meal into something special.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to prepare! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just getting started in the kitchen, these Swedish Meatballs will impress your loved ones without taking up too much of your time. You’ll find that it’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the joy of sharing a delicious meal together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family favorite: Everyone loves meatballs! They’re fun to eat and packed with flavor, perfect for both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them. When you’re ready, just cook them up and enjoy!
• Comfort food bliss: The creamy gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes creates a truly comforting meal that warms the soul.
• Versatile sides: Pair these meatballs with your favorite sides, like lingonberry jam or pickled cucumbers, for an authentic touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delicious Swedish Meatballs with Gravy, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. I love how accessible they are, making it easy to bring this Scandinavian classic to your table.

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

One of the best parts about Swedish Meatballs with Gravy is how flexible the recipe is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Mix in some finely chopped spinach or grated carrots into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
• Dairy-free option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative to suit dietary needs.

How to Make Swedish Meatballs with Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the breadcrumbs absorb the milk, creating a nice texture. Then add in ground beef, finely grated onion, egg, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything well helps ensure every bite is flavorful!

Step 2: Form and Cook the Meatballs

Once your mixture is ready, shape it into small meatballs—about an inch in diameter works great! Heat some butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until they are browned on all sides. This step is crucial as it adds depth of flavor through caramelization.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

After removing the meatballs from the pan, use the same skillet to make your gravy. Melt more butter and whisk in flour until golden brown. Gradually add beef broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in heavy cream and soy sauce; let it simmer until thickened. This rich gravy will elevate your meatballs like nothing else!

Step 4: Combine It All Together

Now that you have both your delicious meatballs and savory gravy ready, return the meatballs to the skillet. Let them simmer gently in the gravy for about 10 minutes so they soak up all those incredible flavors.

And there you have it—your own homemade Swedish Meatballs with Gravy! Serve them over mashed potatoes or alongside pickled cucumbers for that authentic touch. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Swedish Meatballs with Gravy

Making Swedish Meatballs with Gravy can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you nail the recipe perfectly!

• Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs absorb moisture better and provide a softer texture in your meatballs, resulting in a more tender bite.

• Chill the mixture before shaping: Letting your meat mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes makes it easier to shape into meatballs and helps them hold their shape while cooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking meatballs in batches rather than all at once allows for even browning and prevents steaming, giving you those delicious crispy edges.

• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Everyone has a different palate, so feel free to tweak the salt and spices to suit your preference. A little more allspice or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

• Add a touch of sweetness: A teaspoon of sugar or maple syrup can balance out the savory flavors in your gravy, giving it a deeper richness that complements the meatballs wonderfully.

How to Serve Swedish Meatballs with Gravy

Serving Swedish Meatballs with Gravy is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lingonberry jam: This traditional accompaniment brings a sweet-tart contrast that enhances the savory meatballs beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are classic and provide a perfect base for soaking up that rich gravy.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add nutrition and color to your plate.
• Pickled cucumbers: These crunchy bites add an acidic kick that balances out the richness of the gravy.
• Egg noodles: Tender egg noodles are another great option for serving alongside your meatballs, as they soak in all that delicious sauce.

Enjoy making this comforting dish! Your family and friends will surely love it, making it a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Swedish Meatballs with Gravy recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the meatballs before adding them to the gravy.
• Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth for extra moisture.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Swedish Meatballs with Gravy?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be aware that it may result in slightly different flavor and texture.

What sides go well with Swedish Meatballs with Gravy?

For an authentic experience, serve your meatballs alongside creamy mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, or pickled cucumbers. These sides complement the flavors beautifully!

How do I make Swedish Meatballs with Gravy gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use cornstarch instead of flour for the gravy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these delightful Swedish Meatballs with Gravy! This dish not only brings warmth and comfort but also creates wonderful memories around the dinner table. Enjoy every bite, and remember that cooking is all about sharing love and happiness. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!