I’m not sure about you, but whenever I visit Ikea, I simply can’t resist their famous Swedish meatballs. However, it’s not always feasible to go to Ikea whenever I have a craving. That’s why we came up with a pocket-friendly homemade recipe that can be enjoyed on a relaxed weeknight or serve as a delightful centerpiece for a fancy dinner party. These Swedish meatballs are both satisfying and comforting, like receiving a warm embrace through a dish.
What are Swedish Meatballs?
Swedish meatballs, also referred to as Köttbullar in Swedish, are a classic Scandinavian meal consisting of meatballs served with gravy. In contrast to Italian meatballs, Swedish meatballs are seasoned with allspice (and occasionally nutmeg) and are cooked in a rich, creamy gravy made with beef broth instead of a spicy, garlic-infused tomato sauce.
What to serve with Swedish meatballs
Typically, Swedish meatballs are accompanied by mashed potatoes, and we enjoy adding a touch of minced parsley and fresh cracked pepper on top. However, they can also be served over egg noodles or any other suitable option that allows for the enjoyment of the delectable gravy!
This meal is often accompanied by a classic condiment known as Lingonberry jam, which is traditionally slightly sweetened. Lingonberries are wild berries that grow in lowbushes and are native to Sweden. They share a similar taste profile to cranberries or red currants. If you happen to have any leftover cranberry sauce from your holiday festivities, it would be a fantastic complement to this dish.
Can you Make Them Ahead?
It is possible to prepare the meatballs one day in advance. If you are making a larger batch, cook them in batches, ensuring that each meatball is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 145℉. After cooking, let them cool down completely before refrigerating. When reheating, arrange the meatballs on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper at 375℉ while preparing the gravy, and then follow the recipe as instructed. Once the meatballs have simmered in the sauce, they should reach an internal temperature of 165℉ before serving.
How to Make Swedish Meatballs – Step by Step Photos
Incorporate ¼ cup of plain breadcrumbs into a bowl, then combine them with ¼ tsp of nutmeg, ¼ tsp of allspice, ¼ tsp of garlic powder, and ¼ tsp of salt. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Incorporate ½ lb. ground pork, ½ lb. ground beef, the breadcrumb mixture, and one lightly beaten large egg into a bowl. Thoroughly blend the ingredients using your hands, ensuring an even consistency. Be cautious not to over-mix, as it may result in tougher meatballs.
Separate the mixture into 16 portions, approximately 1.5 tablespoons each, and mold them into round shapes, forming meatballs.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted and foaming, add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are nicely browned. It is not necessary for the meatballs to be fully cooked at this stage.
Take out the browned meatballs from the skillet and introduce 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter into the skillet.
Keep cooking the butter and flour on medium heat, while whisking continuously, for approximately 2 minutes.
Whisk in 2 cups of beef broth gradually, ensuring to dissolve any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Continuously cook and stir the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a simmer, resulting in a thickened gravy.
To prepare the gravy, incorporate 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, ⅛ teaspoon of nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and ⅓ cup of heavy cream. Stir the mixture well to ensure it is evenly combined. Proceed to taste the gravy and make any necessary adjustments to the salt or other seasonings according to your preference.
Return the meatballs to the skillet and mix them well with the gravy to ensure they are fully coated.
Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce until they are fully cooked (approximately 5 minutes).
If desired, garnish with chopped parsley and additional pepper. Serve the meatballs and gravy on a bed of mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Wow, just take a look at that gravy! It’s incredibly rich and luxurious!
