Creamy Swedish Meatballs: 5 Steps to Comforting Perfection

Name: Creamy Swedish Meatballs: 5 Steps to Comforting Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1/2 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1/2 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

by Fenna Saul

January 14, 2026

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Creamy Swedish Meatballs has been a staple in my family for years, a dish that brings warmth and comfort on chilly evenings. I remember my grandmother preparing these delightful morsels, filling the kitchen with the enticing aroma of spices and rich gravy. Each bite is a comforting blend of flavors, making it a family favorite. Whether served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, it’s always a hit. This creamy meatballs recipe not only satisfies but also evokes fond memories of gatherings and laughter. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Delicious and comforting flavor that warms your heart
Easy to prepare in just 50 minutes
Perfect for family dinners and meal prep
Budget-friendly, using simple ingredients
Great option for kids and adults alike
Authentic taste that brings a piece of Sweden to your home
Pair well with mashed potatoes or noodles
Can be made ahead for easy weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Here’s everything you need for this delicious recipe:

1/2 pound ground beef – provides rich flavor
1/2 pound ground pork – adds moisture and tenderness
1/2 cup breadcrumbs – binds the meatballs together
1 large egg – helps to hold the mixture
1/2 onion, finely chopped – adds depth of flavor
2 cloves garlic, minced – gives a fragrant aroma
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice – traditional spice for Swedish meatballs
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – enhances the flavor profile
1 teaspoon salt – to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for seasoning
3 tablespoons butter – for sautéing
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – to thicken the sauce
2 cups beef broth – adds richness to the gravy
3/4 cup heavy cream – creates the creamy texture
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – for umami flavor
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – adds a tangy note

How to Make Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until just combined.
Step 2: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning until golden on all sides. Set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and stir in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
Step 5: Slowly whisk in beef broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard.
Step 6: Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer until thickened.
Step 7: Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Step 8: Serve hot over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.

Creamy Swedish Meatballs: 5 Steps to Comforting Perfection - Creamy Swedish Meatballs - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Swedish Meatballs

These tricks guarantee success every time:

Use a mix of beef and pork for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overwork the meat mixture; it should be just combined.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste; try adding fresh herbs.

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Swedish Meatballs?

The secret lies in using a combination of beef and pork, and ensuring the meatballs are browned perfectly before simmering. This enhances the flavor and texture.

Can I make Creamy Swedish Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them. Just reheat in the sauce before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Swedish Meatballs?

Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Also, ensure you brown them well for extra flavor.

Creamy Swedish Meatballs: 5 Steps to Comforting Perfection - Creamy Swedish Meatballs - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Swedish Meatballs

These meatballs shine when served over fluffy mashed potatoes or egg noodles. You can also pair them with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a twist, try serving them with lingonberry sauce to complement the rich gravy.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Per serving (recipe makes 4 servings):

Calories: 520
Protein: 30g
Fat: 36g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Allow the meatballs to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or warm gently on the stovetop until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Why are Swedish meatballs popular?

Swedish meatballs are beloved for their rich flavor and comforting texture. They make for a perfect family meal and are often associated with cozy gatherings.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef and pork?

Yes, ground turkey can be a great alternative, making the dish lighter. Just be sure to add some moisture, like a bit of oil or more cream, to keep them tender.

What can I serve with Creamy Swedish Meatballs?

Pair these meatballs with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even rice. They also go well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your broth is gluten-free for a delicious gluten-free version.

Variations of Creamy Swedish Meatballs You Can Try

Feel free to experiment! You can try adding different spices like cumin or coriander for a twist. For a creamy mushroom variation, incorporate mushroom soup into the sauce. You can also make a lighter version with ground turkey or chicken.