Few dishes deliver the kind of warmth, nostalgia, and hearty satisfaction that Swedish meatballs do. Whether you’ve had them at a holiday table, in a cozy Scandinavian kitchen, or at IKEA (yes, really!), you know they’re something special. Juicy meatballs seasoned with allspice and nutmeg, smothered in a creamy, flavorful gravy—what’s not to love?
What Are Swedish Meatballs?
Swedish meatballs, or köttbullar, are a traditional Scandinavian dish made with ground meat (typically a mix of pork and beef), seasoned with warm spices, and served with a creamy brown gravy. Unlike Italian meatballs served in tomato sauce, Swedish meatballs are softer, smaller, and more subtly flavored.
They’re often paired with mashed potatoes or egg noodles and served with lingonberry jam for a sweet contrast to the savory sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Swedish Meatballs Recipe
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Classic, Authentic Flavor – Allspice and nutmeg create that traditional taste.
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Creamy Gravy – Made with broth, cream, and a touch of richness.
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Family-Friendly – Kids and adults both love them.
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Great for Leftovers – Reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
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Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve as a cozy dinner, appetizer, or party dish.
Ingredients List
For the Meatballs:
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½ lb ground beef
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½ lb ground pork
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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1 small onion, grated or finely minced
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 egg
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¼ cup whole milk
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp ground allspice
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¼ tsp ground nutmeg
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2 tbsp butter (for frying)
For the Gravy:
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1 ½ cups beef broth
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½ cup heavy cream or sour cream
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: ½ tsp Dijon mustard for extra depth
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
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Servings: 4–6
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Swedish Meatballs
Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Form the mixture into small balls—about 1 inch in diameter. You should get about 20–24 meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet or plate and chill for 10–15 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown on all sides, turning gently. Cook for 6–8 minutes total. Remove to a plate once browned.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer, then stir in cream and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Return Meatballs to the Pan
Gently return the browned meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the gravy for 10–15 minutes, or until cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Serve immediately with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and a spoonful of lingonberry jam if available.
Tips for the Best Swedish Meatballs
1. Mix Gently
Overworking the meat can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until combined.
2. Use a Meat Mixture
Beef adds richness, while pork adds tenderness. The combo is key to authentic texture.
3. Brown First, Then Simmer
Browning adds flavor and color. Simmering in gravy keeps them moist and tender.
4. Grate the Onion
Grated onion blends into the meatballs better and adds moisture without chunks.
5. Add Mustard (Optional)
A touch of Dijon mustard deepens the gravy flavor without overpowering.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
1. Classic: Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the rich gravy beautifully.
2. Pasta: Egg Noodles
Butter noodles or tagliatelle are great for capturing every drop of sauce.
3. Rice or Cauliflower Rice
Great gluten-free or low-carb options.
4. Lingonberry Jam
A traditional Scandinavian accompaniment that adds sweet-tart balance.
5. Pickled Cucumbers or Roasted Veggies
Add a little acidity or crunch to contrast the richness.
Variations to Try
1. All-Beef Meatballs
Substitute pork for all beef if desired. Slightly firmer texture but still tasty.
2. Add Herbs
Chopped parsley or dill can brighten the meatballs or the sauce.
3. Oven-Baked Option
Bake meatballs at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, then add to the gravy.
4. Dairy-Free Version
Use unsweetened almond milk in the meatballs and dairy-free cream for the gravy.
5. Vegetarian Swedish Meatballs
Use plant-based meat or a lentil-and-mushroom mixture for a meat-free option.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make Ahead
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Prepare meatballs and gravy up to 1 day ahead.
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Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Storing Leftovers
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Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing Swedish Meatballs
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Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
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Freeze cooked meatballs and gravy together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
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Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Swedish Meatballs vs. Other Meatballs
Type Key Ingredients Sauce Type Origin Swedish Meatballs Beef & pork, allspice Creamy brown gravy Sweden Italian Meatballs Beef, breadcrumbs, herbs Tomato sauce Italy Turkish Köfte Lamb or beef, spices Yogurt or tomato Middle East American Meatballs Beef, breadcrumbs, garlic Often tomato-based USA
FAQs
Q1: Can I use pre-made frozen meatballs?
Yes. For a shortcut, use frozen plain meatballs and simmer them in the homemade gravy.
Q2: What makes Swedish meatballs taste different?
It’s the unique seasoning—especially allspice and nutmeg—that sets them apart.
Q3: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just brown the meatballs in batches and increase the gravy accordingly.
Q4: Is sour cream okay in the gravy?
Yes. It adds tang and richness. Mix it in at the end so it doesn’t curdle.
Q5: Can I use chicken or turkey?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken works well, but may need a touch more fat or moisture.
Conclusion
Swedish meatballs are a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. With tender, flavorful meatballs and a creamy gravy that’s impossible to resist, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or cozy Sunday meals. Once you master the basics, you can make endless variations, experiment with side dishes, and even prep batches to freeze for later.
If you’ve never made Swedish meatballs from scratch before, now is the time to start. One bite of this homemade version and you’ll understand why this humble dish has become a global favorite.