Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef (or mix with ½ lb ground pork for extra juiciness)
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (essential for Swedish flavor!)
- ¼ teaspoon allspice (optional but recommended)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
For the Swedish Gravy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
- Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork the meat!
- Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a plate.
(💡 Pro Tip: Chill the meatballs in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.)
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove and set aside.
(💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed!)
Step 3: Make the Swedish Gravy
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
(💡 For an extra smooth sauce, strain the gravy before adding the meatballs.)
Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce
- Return the meatballs to the pan, tossing gently in the sauce.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and coated in creamy gravy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
- Serve over buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
- Enjoy every savory, creamy, and delicious bite!
Notes
Serving Ideas & Pairings
🥔 With Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate comfort food pairing.
🍝 Over Egg Noodles – Classic and soaks up all the sauce.
🥖 With Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping into the creamy gravy.
🥗 With a Side Salad – Lightens up the dish with fresh greens.
🍷 With a Glass of Red Wine – A Pinot Noir or Merlot pairs beautifully.