Swedish Meatballs Recipe (Creamy Homemade Comfort Food)
These Swedish Meatballs are tender, juicy, and coated in a rich, creamy gravy that's packed with flavor. Made with a blend of ground beef, warm spices, and a silky sauce, this classic comfort food is perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or whenever you're craving a hearty homemade meal.
Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a meal the whole family will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy gravy
Tender homemade meatballs
Easy comfort food dinner
Family-friendly recipe
Great for meal prep
Better than restaurant versions
Ingredients
Meatballs
1 pound ground beef
½ pound ground pork (alternate with ground turkey sausage)
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 small onion, finely diced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon allspice
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Swedish Meatball Gravy
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 2 minutes.
Add ground beef, ground pork, onion, egg, garlic powder, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Mix until just combined.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Roll mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
Place on a plate while preparing to cook.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook meatballs in batches until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, melt butter.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in beef broth until smooth.
Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return meatballs to the skillet.
Spoon gravy over the meatballs and simmer for 5 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Swedish meatballs different?
Swedish meatballs use warm spices like allspice and nutmeg and are served with a creamy gravy instead of tomato sauce.
Can I freeze Swedish meatballs?
Yes. Freeze cooked meatballs and gravy for up to 3 months.
What should I serve with Swedish meatballs?
Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, roasted vegetables, or rice pair perfectly.
Recipe Notes
For the most authentic flavor, don't skip the allspice and nutmeg. These spices give Swedish meatballs their signature taste.