Easy Swedish Meatballs Recipe: A Simple Guide to a Classic Dish
Swedish meatballs are a beloved dish known for their tender texture and rich, savory flavor. While they might seem intimidating, this easy recipe simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy this classic comfort food without the fuss. Let's dive into making delicious Swedish meatballs that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for best texture)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
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For the Gravy:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for umami depth)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Meatballs:
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and allspice. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
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Form the Meatballs: Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Try to make them uniform in size for even cooking.
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Brown the Meatballs: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Brown the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This step adds a beautiful sear and enhances the flavor. Set aside once browned.
Making the Creamy Gravy:
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Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will thicken the gravy.
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Add Broth Gradually: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
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Stir in Flavor Enhancers: Stir in the heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Meatballs and Gravy: Add the browned meatballs to the gravy and gently simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious Swedish meatballs over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Swedish Meatballs:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Brown Properly: Browning the meatballs before adding them to the gravy adds depth of flavor and texture.
- Simmer Gently: Simmering the meatballs in the gravy allows them to absorb the flavors and become incredibly tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your preference. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and other spices as needed.
This easy Swedish meatballs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process of making this classic dish and savor every bite! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us in your posts!