Swedish meatballs, or Svenska köttbullar, are one of Sweden’s most beloved traditional dishes. These tender, flavorful beef and pork meatballs are typically served with a rich, creamy sauce and a side of lingonberry sauce, creating the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Whether you enjoy them as part of a hearty meal with mashed potatoes or alongside noodles, Swedish meatballs bring warmth and comfort to the table. In this article, we’ll explore how to prepare this classic dish step by step and share some tips to make your meatballs even better.
Ingredients
To make authentic Swedish meatballs, you’ll need:
- For the meatballs:
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp butter (for frying)
- For the cream sauce for meatballs:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For serving:
- Lingonberry sauce
- Mashed potatoes or noodles
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preparing the Meatballs
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the liquid.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix well until evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into small, round meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
2. Cooking the Meatballs
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs in batches, cooking meatballs until browned on all sides (about 6–8 minutes). Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- For a healthier variation, you can try baking meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
3. Making the Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Pour in heavy cream and Dijon mustard, then season with salt and pepper.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Swedish flavor – The combination of beef and pork meatballs with warming spices makes them taste just like traditional Swedish family recipes.
- Versatile serving options – You can enjoy them with mashed potatoes, noodles, or even rice.
- Perfect balance of flavors – The rich cream sauce for meatballs pairs beautifully with the tart lingonberry sauce.
- Great for meal prep – These meatballs store well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for later meals.
My Tips
- Use a mixture of beef and pork to get the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overwork the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Frying gives them a beautiful crust, but baking meatballs is a great alternative for a healthier option.
- For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the beef broth to the sauce.
- Try different side dishes for meatballs, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad, for variety.
A Delicious Meal Awaits!
Now that you know how to make classic Swedish meatballs, it’s time to bring this delicious dish to your table. Whether you serve them as a comforting family dinner or as part of a festive meal, these meatballs are sure to impress. Enjoy your homemade Svenska Kottbullar with your favorite side dishes, and don’t forget the lingonberry sauce!
Authentic Swedish Meatballs Recipe (köttbullar)
Description
Discover how to make authentic Swedish meatballs (köttbullar) with this easy recipe. Impress your family and friends with delicious flavors today!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 32g50%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Cholesterol 120mg40%
- Sodium 1050mg44%
- Total Carbohydrate 20g7%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 29g58%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Time & Cooking Temperature
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Oven Baking Temperature (if applicable): 400°F (200°C)
