Step-by-Step Guide to Making Traditional Swedish Meatballs
Swedish meatballs, or köttbullar, are one of Sweden’s most famous dishes. They are bite-sized, flavorful meatballs served with a creamy gravy, lingonberry jam, and boiled potatoes or pasta. While you might have seen them at IKEA, homemade Swedish meatballs are even better! This guide will walk you through how to make delicious, authentic Swedish meatballs in simple steps.
What Makes Swedish Meatballs Special?
Swedish meatballs are different from other meatballs because of their unique flavor and creamy sauce. They are made with a combination of ground beef and pork, seasoned with salt, pepper, and allspice, which adds warmth and a slightly sweet taste. The creamy sauce, combined with tangy lingonberry jam, creates the perfect balance of flavors.
Now that you know what makes Swedish meatballs special, let’s start cooking!
Ingredients
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef
- 1 pound (450 grams) ground pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice (optional, but highly recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
For the Creamy Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Sides:
- Lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce
- Boiled potatoes, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
Start by combining the breadcrumbs and milk in a small bowl. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes so the breadcrumbs soak up the milk. This will help make your meatballs soft and tender.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and allspice. Use your hands to mix everything together until fully combined. Be gentle—don’t overmix, or the meatballs can become tough.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the meat mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut or around 1 inch in diameter. You can use a spoon or a small scoop to keep the sizes consistent. Place the meatballs on a plate or tray as you go.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Fry them until they’re golden brown on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. Use a spatula to gently turn them while frying.
Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Gravy
After cooking the meatballs, don’t clean the skillet—you’ll want to use all the flavorful bits left behind for the sauce. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet and let it melt.
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk it into the butter to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 1 minute, then gradually add the beef broth while whisking. This will help prevent lumps.
Once the sauce is smooth, stir in the heavy cream and soy sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until the gravy thickens. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Place the cooked meatballs back into the skillet with the gravy. Let them simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes so they absorb the creamy flavors.
Step 7: Serve Your Swedish Meatballs
Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with lingonberry jam and boiled potatoes, but you can also enjoy them with mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Add a spoonful of gravy over the meatballs and serve the lingonberry jam on the side.
Tips for Success
- Use both ground beef and pork: The combination of meats gives Swedish meatballs their classic texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the allspice: It’s the secret ingredient that makes Swedish meatballs taste authentic.
- Fry in butter: Butter adds richness that’s key to Swedish cuisine.
- Make ahead: Swedish meatballs freeze well. Cook them ahead of time and freeze in a container. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the gravy.
Final Thoughts
Making traditional Swedish meatballs at home is much easier than it seems. With simple ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can recreate this classic dish and impress your family or friends. The combination of tender meatballs, creamy gravy, and lingonberry jam is irresistible.
Whether you serve them on a special occasion or for a cozy dinner, Swedish meatballs will quickly become a favorite recipe in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this delicious taste of Sweden!
Try this recipe and let us know how your Swedish meatballs turn out!
