When I made this Swedish Meatballs Recipe for the first time, I was amazed at how comforting and flavorful they turned out. The meatballs were tender, juicy, and packed with a perfect hint of warm spices, while the creamy gravy added the kind of rich, luxurious touch you’d expect from a chef-made dish.

Paired with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, they became an instant dinner hit in my home. I love how this recipe feels sophisticated yet warm and homemade at the same time. You can also enjoy similar recipes like Stuffed Meatballs in Guinness Gravy Recipe for another hearty and flavorful option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients and a few tasty add-ins, this dish is surprisingly simple to create.

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef: For a hearty, rich texture you can’t beat.
1/2 lb ground pork: Balances the beef with its natural sweetness and tenderness.
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides structure while keeping the meatballs light.
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a subtle nutty flavor and richness.
1 large egg: Helps bind everything together.
2 tablespoons milk: Moistens and tenderizes the meat mixture.
1 small yellow onion (finely diced): Gives the meatballs a gentle aromatic flavor.
2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the meatballs with depth and aroma.
1/8 teaspoon allspice: Warm and savory, quintessential for Swedish meatballs.
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds just enough warming spice to round out the flavors.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: For a subtle herbaceous hit.
1 teaspoon salt: Brings out the flavors of the ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons butter: The base for a rich, flavorful roux.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy beautifully.
2 cups beef broth: Provides a savory depth of flavor for the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder: Enhances the gravy’s richness.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds tang and complexity.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A subtle zing to balance the creaminess.
1/3 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred): Makes the gravy luxuriously creamy.
1 tablespoon parsley (chopped): For color and freshness.

Note: Serves 4–5; adjust as needed for family dinners or gatherings.

Tasty Variations to Try

With a few creative swaps, you can tailor this dish to suit your needs.

Go Dairy-Free: Replace the milk and sour cream with non-dairy alternatives such as almond milk or coconut cream.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and swap the flour for a gluten-free blend.
Add Some Heat: A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can liven up the flavors.
Opt for Vegetarian: Use plant-based meat substitutes and swap beef broth for vegetable stock.

Cooking Time

Here’s how much time you’ll need to plan for this recipe.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need

Simplify your cooking process with these tools.

High-walled skillet: Great for browning meatballs and simmering gravy.
Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the meatball ingredients.
Cookie scoop: Ensures consistently-sized meatballs.
Whisk: Helps create that silky smooth gravy.
Silicone spatula: Scrapes up those tasty browned bits while stirring.

How to Make Swedish Meatballs?

Making this dish is a breeze when broken down into these simple steps.

Step 1: Prep Your Meatball Mixture

Start by combining the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and milk in a large bowl. Stir until the mix feels evenly moist. Then, mix in the onions, garlic, and seasonings like nutmeg, allspice, and oregano to enhance the overall flavor. Finally, add the ground beef and pork, and gently fold everything together. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Shape and Chill Your Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls, using damp hands or a cookie scoop for uniformity. Place the meatballs on a plate and refrigerate them for 15 minutes. This quick chill does wonders for helping the meatballs hold their shape while cooking.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs in batches, letting each side brown evenly. This step not only locks in the juices but also creates flavorful bits in the pan, which we’ll use for the sauce. Once browned, set the meatballs aside on a plate.

Step 4: Make a Creamy Sauce

Melt butter in the same skillet, scraping up those browned bits for extra flavor. Add flour and whisk until golden, forming a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and chicken bouillon, then simmer until the sauce thickens slightly into a rich, golden gravy.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Temper the sour cream by stirring a little warm gravy into it, then whisk the mixture back into the skillet. This prevents curdling and ensures the sauce is silky smooth. Add the meatballs back into the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked. Sprinkle with parsley and serve!

Tips for Perfect Results

After making this dish countless times, here are some tips I’ve learned that can take it to the next level.

Chilling is Key: Chilled meatballs hold together better during cooking. Don’t skip this step!
Don’t Rush the Roux: Take your time when whisking the flour into the butter; the nutty, golden flavor it creates is essential.
Balance the Spices: Nutmeg and allspice should enhance the dish without overpowering it, so measure carefully.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions make a big difference in flavor authenticity.

How to Serve Swedish Meatballs?

To serve, ladle the rich gravy and tender meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color, or add a side of lingonberry jam for a sweet Scandinavian touch. For added presentation, consider serving them in a shallow bowl with an extra drizzle of sauce on top. You can also enjoy similar recipes like Sticky Mongolian Meatballs and Broccoli for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a brief breakdown of the nutrition per serving of these meatballs.

Calories: 75
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fat: 5g

Make Ahead and Storage

Don’t stress about timing; this recipe is perfect for prepping in advance and reheating.

Refrigeration

Cool leftovers completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on low heat to keep the sauce silky.

Freezing

Uncooked meatballs can be flash-frozen on a tray. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Cooked meatballs and sauce can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Always thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe combines ease, flavor, and versatility, making it a must-try.

Quick to Make with make-ahead options, perfect for busy nights or entertaining.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food filled with rich flavors and creamy textures.
Customizable Ingredients for dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Restaurant-Quality Results in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Once you make these Swedish meatballs, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Soft, flavorful, and drenched in creamy gravy—they’re everything you could want in a comforting dish! For more dinner ideas, check out the dinner collection for inspiration.