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SWEDISH MEATBALLS

Served over buttery egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, these meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and smothered in a luscious brown gravy.

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.

  • Author: niold.com