Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy: A Cozy, Comforting Classic

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy. These tender, flavorful meatballs, bathed in a rich, velvety sauce, are a beloved dish that brings warmth to any table. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of beef and pork, these meatballs are a delightful balance of hearty and savory, with a creamy gravy that ties it all together. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply craving a taste of Scandinavian comfort food, this recipe will not disappoint. Let’s get cooking and bring this timeless dish to life!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup whole milk
• 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a subtle tang)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and milk. Add the grated onion, minced garlic, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. The mixture should be soft but hold its shape when rolled.
2. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about the size of a golf ball). You should get around 30-35 meatballs, depending on the size. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or plate and set aside while you heat the pan.
3. Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, add the meatballs to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point, as they’ll finish cooking in the gravy. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate and repeat with the remaining meatballs.
4. Make the Creamy Gravy: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these add incredible flavor to the gravy. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, until it turns a light golden color. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking to avoid lumps, then add the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using). Continue to whisk until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Simmer the Meatballs in the Gravy: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the meatballs simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C). Stir gently once or twice to ensure the meatballs are evenly coated in the gravy.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the meatballs are tender and the gravy is rich and glossy, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Swedish Meatballs hot, with the creamy gravy spooned over the top.

Serving Suggestions

Swedish Meatballs are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a traditional Scandinavian meal, serve them over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or egg noodles, allowing the creamy gravy to soak into every bite. A side of lingonberry jam (or cranberry sauce, if lingonberries aren’t available) adds a classic sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory meatballs perfectly. For a lighter touch, steamed green beans or a crisp cucumber salad with dill can round out the meal. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to mop up any extra gravy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Swedish Meatballs recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the comforting flavors of tender meatballs with a luscious, creamy gravy that’s packed with savory depth. The addition of allspice and nutmeg gives the meatballs their signature Scandinavian flair, while the Parmesan cheese adds a subtle umami kick. It’s a dish that feels both nostalgic and special, making it perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any night when you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or broth if the gravy thickens too much. You can also freeze the meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Browning: Searing the meatballs before simmering them in the gravy adds a layer of flavor and helps them hold their shape.
• Adjust the Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more broth or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, cook the entire dish ahead of time—the flavors often taste even better the next day!

A Heartfelt Thank You

I’m so excited to share this Swedish Meatballs recipe with you! Your support means the world to me, and I’d love to hear how this dish turns out for you. Drop a comment below or share your thoughts—I’m always inspired by your feedback and love for cooking. Thank you for being part of this delicious journey!

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