Table of Contents: Swedish Meatballs
Swedish Meatballs
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, Juicy, and Irresistibly Delicious!
Picture this: tender, juicy meatballs smothered in a rich, velvety cream sauce that’s bursting with savory flavors. One bite, and you’ll be transported to a cozy Swedish kitchen, where comfort food reigns supreme. These Creamy Swedish Meatballs are the perfect weeknight dinner—quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Did you know that Swedish meatballs (or köttbullar) are a staple in Sweden, often served with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes? Unlike Italian meatballs, they’re smaller, spiced with nutmeg and allspice, and bathed in a luscious cream sauce. The best part? You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to make them!
If you loved our Chicken Ricotta Meatballs, you’ll adore this Swedish twist. It’s just as simple but with a luxurious, creamy finish that makes it feel extra special. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering dish? Let’s get cooking!
What Are Swedish Meatballs?
Ever wondered why these little bites of heaven are called Swedish Meatballs? Is it because they’re made by Swedish chefs? Or because they taste like a warm hug from a Viking? (Okay, maybe not the Viking part.)
The truth is, Swedish meatballs are a beloved national dish in Sweden, traditionally made with a mix of beef and pork, spiced with warm flavors like nutmeg and allspice, and served with a creamy gravy. They’re smaller than Italian meatballs, making them perfect for soaking up that dreamy sauce.
And let’s be real—there’s something magical about meatballs. As the old saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but honestly, this dish will win over anyone’s heart. So, why not give it a try tonight?
Why You’ll Love This Swedish Meatballs Recipe
1. Creamy, Dreamy Sauce That’s Next-Level Delicious
The star of this dish? That silky, savory cream sauce! Made with beef broth, heavy cream, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, it’s rich, flavorful, and downright addictive.
2. Budget-Friendly & Better Than Takeout
Skip the IKEA trip—making these at home is cheaper, fresher, and way more satisfying. A single batch feeds a family, making it perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners.
3. Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing
Pair them with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even rice—they’re a hit every time! If you enjoyed our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – The Ultimate Comfort Dish You’ll Love, you’ll love how these meatballs bring the same comfort-food vibes.
Ready to make the best Swedish meatballs of your life? Let’s get started!
How to Make Swedish Meatballs

Quick Overview
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Servings: 4-6
– Key Features: Juicy meatballs, creamy sauce, quick prep
Key Ingredients
– For the Meatballs:
– 1 lb ground beef
– ½ lb ground pork
– ½ cup breadcrumbs
– ¼ cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp onion powder
– ½ tsp nutmeg
– ½ tsp allspice
– Salt & pepper
– For the Cream Sauce:
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt & pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Meatballs:
– In a bowl, mix beef, pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, and spices.
– Roll into 1-inch balls and brown in a skillet over medium heat. Remove and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
– In the same skillet, melt butter, whisk in flour, then slowly add beef broth.
– Stir in cream and Worcestershire sauce, simmer until thickened.
3. Combine & Serve:
– Return meatballs to the skillet, coat in sauce, and simmer for 5 minutes.
– Garnish with parsley and serve hot!
What to Serve With Swedish Meatballs
These meatballs are incredibly versatile! For a classic Swedish experience, serve them with buttery mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam. If you’re craving something different, try them over egg noodles or with a side of roasted veggies. And don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that creamy sauce!
Top Tips for Perfecting Swedish Meatballs
– Don’t Overmix – Gently combine the meatball ingredients to keep them tender.
– Use Fresh Spices – Nutmeg and allspice are key for authentic flavor.
– Sear for Flavor – Browning the meatballs first adds depth to the sauce.
– Make Ahead – These freeze well for quick meals later!
Storing and Reheating Tips
– Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freezer: Freeze meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months.
– Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
People Also Ask: Swedish Meatballs

What’s the difference between Swedish meatballs and regular meatballs?
Swedish meatballs are smaller, use a mix of beef and pork, and are flavored with nutmeg and allspice. They’re also served in a creamy gravy, unlike Italian meatballs in tomato sauce.
What is Swedish meatball sauce made of?
The sauce is a rich blend of butter, flour, beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce, creating a velvety, savory gravy.
What are Swedish meatballs traditionally served with?
In Sweden, they’re often paired with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, and pickled cucumbers.
Can you make Swedish meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs and sauce separately, then reheat together when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the ultimate Swedish Meatballs recipe that’s creamy, flavorful, and foolproof! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints.
Want more delicious recipes? Check out our Tuscan-Inspired Garlic And White Bean Soup – The Best Italian Comfort Dish or Slow Cooker Chicken Stroganoff for more comfort food inspiration.
Now, grab your skillet and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you! 🍽️
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Swedish Meatballs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Classic Swedish meatballs served in a creamy, savory gravy. Perfect with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix beef, pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Form mixture into small meatballs.
- In a skillet, cook meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce; stir until thick and creamy.
- Return meatballs to skillet and coat in gravy.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with mashed potatoes or noodles.
Notes
For authentic flavor, use both nutmeg and allspice. Sauce thickens as it cools.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Swedish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 meatballs with sauce
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: Swedish meatballs, creamy gravy, dinner, comfort food