Crock-Pot Swedish Meatballs: A Comfort Food Classic Made Easy
This recipe delivers tender, juicy Swedish meatballs simmered in a rich and creamy gravy, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Crock-Pot Swedish Meatballs recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Say goodbye to hours of stovetop cooking and hello to delicious, effortless meal prep!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it easy to whip up even on a busy weeknight. Here's what you'll need:
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For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
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For the Sauce:
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed beef broth
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is incredibly simple to follow, making it ideal for even novice cooks. Let’s get started!
Preparing the Meatballs:
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In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
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Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
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Place the meatballs in your slow cooker.
Creating the Creamy Sauce:
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar until smooth.
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Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Slow Cooking to Perfection:
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Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
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Optional: For extra flavor, you can add a bay leaf to the sauce during the cooking process. Remove before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these delicious Swedish meatballs over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. A side of steamed vegetables completes this hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it ahead: These meatballs are perfect for meal prepping. Prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
- Add vegetables: For a heartier meal, add diced carrots, celery, or potatoes to the slow cooker along with the meatballs and sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Conclusion:
This Crock-Pot Swedish Meatballs recipe is a winner for its ease, deliciousness, and versatility. Enjoy this comforting classic with your family and friends! Remember to share your culinary creations using the hashtag #CrockPotSwedishMeatballs. Happy cooking!