Swedish Meatballs in a Rich Creamy Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Sauce – A savory gravy that’s smooth and deeply flavorful
• Tender Meatballs – Perfectly seasoned and pan-seared for a golden crust
• Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples transformed into gourmet comfort food
• Crowd-Pleaser – Ideal for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ lb ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Gravy:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lingonberry jam on the side
• Mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add ground beef, ground pork, grated onion, garlic, egg, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Roll into small balls, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

1. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet.
3. Remove and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Gravy

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Slowly add beef broth, whisking to avoid lumps.
4. Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer Meatballs in the Gravy

1. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet.
2. Simmer gently for 10–12 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and gravy is thick and creamy.

Step 5: Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
2. Serve over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even rice.
3. Don’t forget a spoonful of lingonberry jam on the side for the classic Swedish touch!

Tips for Success

• Use a meat mixture – The combo of beef and pork keeps the meatballs juicy.
• Don’t overmix – Gentle mixing ensures tender meatballs.
• Make ahead – Meatballs can be formed or even cooked and frozen for easy prep.
• Deglaze the pan – Scrape up all those browned bits when adding broth for maximum flavor.

Variations

• Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or ground turkey instead of pork.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Cheese Stuffed – Hide a cube of mozzarella in each meatball for a fun twist.

Storage and Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.
• Freeze cooked meatballs and gravy for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Swedish Meatballs in a Rich Creamy Gravyare the epitome of comfort food — warm, hearty, and irresistibly delicious. With their perfectly seasoned meat and smooth, savory sauce, they bring a taste of tradition and nostalgia to every bite. Whether served at a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Don’t forget the lingonberry jam for the full Swedish experience!

Enjoy!