Howdy, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into the heartwarming world of Swedish meatballs. This dish is a beloved classic, known for its tender meatballs and rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to Sweden.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of beef and pork ensures juicy, flavorful meatballs.
- A touch of nutmeg and allspice adds authentic Swedish warmth.
- The creamy sauce, made with beef broth and heavy cream, is irresistibly rich.
- Pan-frying the meatballs before simmering in sauce locks in moisture and flavor.
- Serving with lingonberry jam brings a sweet-tart contrast that’s traditional and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meatball scoop or tablespoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk, letting them soak for about 5 minutes. Add ground beef, ground pork, grated onion, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix until just combined; overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Tip: For evenly sized meatballs, use a scoop or tablespoon measure.
Step 2: Form and Cook the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even browning.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, sprinkle flour over the drippings, stirring to combine. Gradually whisk in beef broth, heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce
Return the meatballs to the skillet, turning to coat in the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through. Tip: For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and accompanied by mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Don’t forget the lingonberry jam on the side!
Tips and Tricks
For the juiciest meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. A light hand ensures tenderness. If you can’t find lingonberry jam, cranberry sauce makes a fine substitute. For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with milk, though the sauce will be less rich. To make ahead, prepare the meatballs and sauce separately, then combine and reheat gently before serving.
Recipe Variations
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
- Add a dash of cardamom to the meatball mixture for an extra layer of spice.
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter take on the classic.
- For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based ground meat alternative and vegetable broth.
- Incorporate chopped mushrooms into the meatball mixture for added umami flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baking is a great option for a healthier version. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the meatballs on a lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes, or until cooked through. Then, proceed with the sauce as directed.
What can I use instead of lingonberry jam?
If lingonberry jam is hard to find, cranberry sauce is the next best thing. It offers a similar sweet-tart flavor that complements the rich meatballs and creamy sauce beautifully.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover Swedish meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Summary
This Swedish meatballs recipe is a comforting classic, featuring tender meatballs in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
