📝 About This Recipe
Transport your family to a cozy kitchen in Stockholm with these tender, melt-in-your-mouth Swedish meatballs. Unlike their Italian cousins, these gems are seasoned with warm spices like allspice and nutmeg, creating a uniquely comforting flavor profile that kids absolutely adore. Bathed in a silky, golden cream gravy, they are the ultimate 'Global Favorite' for little eaters and grown-ups alike.
🥗 Ingredients
The Meatballs
- 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juiciness)
- 1/2 pound Ground Pork (adds essential tenderness)
- 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Whole Milk
- 1 large Egg (lightly beaten)
- 1/2 cup Yellow Onion (very finely grated)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (for searing)
The Creamy Gravy
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour
- 2 cups Beef Broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (adds depth without spice)
For Serving
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup Lingonberry Jam (traditional accompaniment)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and milk. Let them sit for about 5-10 minutes until the crumbs have absorbed the liquid and turned into a soft paste (this is called a panade and ensures the meatballs stay moist).
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2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, grated onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg.
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3
Add the soaked breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. Using your hands or a wooden spoon, mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatballs tough.
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4
Roll the mixture into small, uniform balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get approximately 24-30 meatballs. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
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5
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is foaming, add the meatballs in batches.
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6
Brown the meatballs on all sides until they have a beautiful golden crust, about 5-7 minutes. They don't need to be cooked through yet. Remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
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7
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet (don't wash it!), add 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour.
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8
Cook the flour and butter mixture (the roux) for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly until it turns a light brown color and smells slightly nutty.
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9
Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce begins to thicken and simmer.
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10
Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Taste the sauce and add a pinch of salt if needed.
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11
Add the meatballs back into the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer gently in the sauce for 8-10 minutes until cooked through and the sauce is thick enough to coat a spoon.
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12
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
💡 Chef's Tips
Grating the onion instead of chopping it is key; it provides moisture and flavor without leaving large chunks that kids might pick out. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in an extra splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Chilling the shaped meatballs in the fridge for 15 minutes before frying helps them hold their round shape in the pan. For the most authentic flavor, don't skip the allspice and nutmeg—they provide that signature Swedish 'warmth' without being spicy. Use a cookie scoop to portion the meat so every meatball is the same size, ensuring they cook evenly.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious cream gravy. Pair with a side of traditional Swedish lingonberry jam for a sweet and tart contrast. Add a serving of buttered egg noodles if your kids prefer pasta over potatoes. Include a side of steamed green peas or quick-pickled cucumbers for a pop of color and freshness. A glass of cold milk or sparkling apple cider makes for a perfect kid-friendly beverage pairing.