Tired After the Holiday Weekend? These Easy Swedish Meatballs Are Just What You Need—Comfort Food Made Simple!
After a busy holiday weekend, there’s nothing better than a comforting plate of easy Swedish meatballs to help you unwind. These tender, flavorful meatballs smothered in a creamy, savory gravy are the perfect weeknight dinner solution. Whether you’re craving a taste of Scandinavia or simply need a quick, satisfying meal, this recipe delivers on both flavor and simplicity.
What makes these Swedish meatballs so special? The combination of warm spices like nutmeg and allspice, paired with rich beef and pork, creates a depth of flavor that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. The velvety gravy, made with beef broth and a touch of cream, ties everything together for a dish that’s pure comfort in every bite. Plus, they’re ready in just 35 minutes—perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic with warm spices like nutmeg and allspice.
- Texture: Tender meatballs with a creamy, velvety gravy that coats every bite.
- Aroma: Rich and inviting, with hints of onion, butter, and warming spices.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown meatballs nestled in a creamy, pale brown gravy, often garnished with fresh parsley.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly—no advanced techniques required.
- Special Equipment: Just a mixing bowl, skillet, and wooden spoon—nothing fancy!
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This recipe is perfect for beginners. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find.
- Category: Comfort food, weeknight dinner, family-friendly meal.
- Cuisine: Scandinavian, specifically Swedish, with influences from traditional Nordic cooking.
- Cost: Budget-friendly—most ingredients are pantry staples or affordable proteins.
- Season: Ideal for fall and winter, but delicious year-round.
- Occasion: Weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Taste and Texture Appeal: These easy Swedish meatballs are packed with flavor—savory, slightly sweet, and perfectly spiced. The creamy gravy adds a luxurious touch, making every bite satisfying.
2. Convenience and Preparation Benefits: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, this dish is perfect for busy nights. The recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal equipment.
3. Nutritional Advantages: High in protein and customizable—swap in lean meats or dairy-free alternatives if needed.
4. Social and Entertaining Value: Great for serving a crowd. Pair with mashed potatoes or lingonberry jam for an authentic experience.
5. Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility: Made with affordable ingredients, this dish is budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
The Recipe
Easy Swedish Meatballs
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape into 1-inch meatballs (about 20 total).
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add beef broth, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and return meatballs to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Recipe Notes
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey and swap heavy cream for half-and-half.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or lingonberry jam for authenticity.