Swedish Meatballs
All Recipes

Swedish Meatballs

55 min 6 servings Medium
Swedish meatballs, known as 'köttbullar' in Sweden, are a classic comfort dish that has gained worldwide popularity, thanks in part to a certain furniture store. These tender meatballs, seasoned with a blend of spices and served in a creamy sauce, offer a satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of ground beef and pork gives these meatballs their rich flavour and moist texture. They're traditionally served with a creamy, savoury sauce and often accompanied by mashed potatoes or lingonberry jam, offering a delightful balance of flavours.

Instructions

1

Prepare the meatball mixture

In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let it soak for a few minutes. Mix in the ground beef, ground pork, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, nutmeg, and finely chopped onion. Chill the mixture for about 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Chilling the mixture helps in shaping the meatballs.

2

Form the meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4 cm (1.5 inch) meatballs. You should have about 24 meatballs.

Pro tip: Use a small ice cream scoop for even-sized meatballs.

3

Cook the meatballs

In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Pro tip: Ensure the meatballs are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F / 71°C.

4

Make the sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened. Stir in heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.

Pro tip: Scrape the bottom of the skillet to incorporate the fond for extra flavour.

5

Combine meatballs and sauce

Return the meatballs to the skillet. Simmer for about 10 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

6

Serve

Serve the meatballs hot, topped with the creamy sauce. Pair with mashed potatoes or noodles.

Pro tip: Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of colour.

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Tips & Tricks

  • For even cooking, make sure the meatballs are uniform in size.
  • Use a mixture of beef and pork for authentic flavour.
  • Chill the meat mixture for easier shaping.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste before forming the meatballs.

Frequently Asked Questions

recette boulet

Swedish meatballs are made with a mix of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, milk, and seasonings, cooked in a creamy sauce.

sauce boulette ikea

The sauce for Swedish meatballs is a creamy blend of beef broth, heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.

boulette boeuf et porc

The meatballs are made from a mixture of ground beef and pork, providing a balance of flavour and moisture.

boulette suédoise campbell

Campbell's version may use their cream soups as a base for the sauce, but traditional recipes use beef broth and cream.

boulette suedoise a la mijoteuse

For slow cooker Swedish meatballs, sear the meatballs first, then cook in the sauce on low for 4-6 hours.

recette sauce boulette suedoise

The sauce is made by combining butter, flour, beef broth, heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard to achieve a creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Swedish meatballs are best enjoyed fresh, but they also make great leftovers. Serve them with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a hearty meal. For a traditional touch, add a spoonful of lingonberry jam on the side. To store, refrigerate the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce's creamy consistency.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

25g

Protein

30g

Fat

20g

Carbs