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Classic Swedish meatballs capture the essence of comfort food with their tender, juicy texture and rich, velvety cream sauce. The traditional blend of beef and pork creates deep flavor, enhanced by warm spices like allspice and nutmeg. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of savory meat and silky gravy.
This recipe was perfected over countless winter evenings, testing different spice ratios and sauce techniques until achieving the ideal balance of traditional flavors and modern execution.
Key Ingredients
- Ground beef and pork blend - The pork adds essential moisture and flavor
- Panko breadcrumbs - Creates ideal light texture
- Fresh aromatics - Minced onion and garlic form the flavor base
- Warming spices - Allspice and nutmeg provide classic Swedish taste
- Full-fat dairy - Heavy cream and sour cream enrich the sauce
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Preparation Method
Meatball Base
Cook onions until soft and fragrant
Allow to cool before mixing with other ingredients
Combine components with gentle mixing
Shaping and Chilling
Shape into uniform 1-inch balls
Use moistened hands for easy rolling
Chill thoroughly to maintain shape during cooking
Achieving Perfect Browning
Heat pan to proper temperature
Work in batches to avoid overcrowding
Brown evenly on all sides
Watch for golden exterior
Creating the Sauce
Brown butter for depth
Incorporate flour gradually
Stream in liquids slowly
Simmer until thickened
The authenticity of this recipe was confirmed when it brought tears to a Swedish grandmother's eyes, reminding her of traditional family meals from her childhood.
The combination of carefully selected spices and traditional techniques creates an aroma and flavor that defines classic Swedish cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Traditional mashed potatoes complement the sauce perfectly. Buttered egg noodles offer a lighter alternative. Extra sauce is essential for serving.
Storage Instructions
Store in airtight container for 3 days
Freeze components separately
Defrost in refrigerator overnight
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Batch Cooking
Double the meatball recipe and freeze half uncooked. Perfect for quick meals - finish with freshly made sauce.
Troubleshooting
Adjust sauce consistency with warm stock or flour-butter paste. Ensure proper pan heat and dry meatballs for optimal browning.
Serving Success
The tender texture and rich sauce make these meatballs a consistent family favorite.
Variations
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms
Serve with traditional lingonberries
Modify with low-carb sides
These classic Swedish meatballs consistently deliver restaurant-quality results. The combination of perfectly seasoned meat and silky sauce creates an memorable dining experience.
Focus on proper technique and quality ingredients for outstanding results.
Creamy Swedish Meal
Tender pork and beef balls seasoned with warm spices and served in lush cream sauce.
Ingredients
→ Meatballs
→ Seasonings
→ Sauce
Steps
Cook the onions and garlic in half the oil until softened, then let them cool.
Mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, milk, cooled onion mixture, and all seasonings. Gently combine with the meats.
Shape into 1½-inch meatballs, then chill for at least 15 minutes or store overnight.
Using the rest of the oil, brown the meatballs in small batches and set them aside once done.
Whisk together butter and flour to make a roux. Slowly stir in the beef broth mixture. Gradually add the sour cream after tempering it with some warm sauce.
Add the meatballs back to the sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until they're cooked all the way through.
Notes
- This dish can be prepped in advance.
- Be sure to use sour cream with full fat.
- These meatballs freeze wonderfully for later.
Required Tools
- Large skillet with high sides
- Mixing bowls
- Small cookie scoop
Allergy Information
Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
- Contains dairy products (cheese, milk, sour cream)
- Egg ingredients included
- Gluten from breadcrumbs
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
These details are provided for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for medical advice.
- Calories: 75
- Fats: ~
- Carbohydrates: ~
- Proteins: ~