– **Title**: Swedish Meatballs
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, milk, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until thoroughly combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sprinkle the flour over the remaining fat and stir to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it starts to turn golden.
5. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined. Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve the Swedish meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside mashed potatoes or egg noodles if desired.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef & Pork: The mix of beef and pork gives the meatballs flavor and tenderness. If you’re avoiding pork, you can use all beef or even a blend with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: These add texture and help bind the meatballs. Use fresh breadcrumbs for a softer texture or panko for more crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can also work if you’re watching gluten intake.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a nutty flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, try nutritional yeast as a cheesy substitute, or use a lactose-free cheese.
Spices: Allspice is key for that authentic taste but can be tricky to find. You can swap it with a pinch of nutmeg and a bit of cinnamon for a different yet pleasant flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or milk. You can also try coconut cream for a dairy-free option; it will change the flavor but still be delicious!
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooked meatballs should be tender and juicy – here’s how to achieve that:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture. Gentle mixing keeps the meatballs tender.
- When shaping, wet your hands to prevent sticking and help form smooth meatballs.
- Cook in batches. Don’t overcrowd the skillet as it lowers the temperature and steams rather than browns the meatballs.
- Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 160°F (71°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Velvety Gravy?
A great gravy can elevate Swedish meatballs. Here are some tips:
- Start by cooking the flour until golden; it helps develop the flavor.
- Whisk constantly as you add broth and cream. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth consistency.
- Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes so it thickens; this melds the flavors nicely.
How to Make Swedish Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Mashed potatoes
- Lingonberry sauce or cranberry sauce
- Steamed vegetables (e.g., broccolini or green beans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a little time mixing and forming the meatballs, cooking them, and then making the creamy gravy. Finally, a quick simmer to combine everything yields a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and ground allspice. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything well until mixed through but don’t overwork it!
2. Form the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the meat mixture and shape them into 1-inch meatballs. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or plate as you go along. This helps keep things organized and makes cooking easier!
3. Cook the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches (avoid overcrowding the pan). Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are nicely browned on all sides and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
4. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk it in until it’s golden, about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the beef broth while continuing to whisk, then stir in the heavy cream, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Meatballs and Gravy:
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the gravy. Gently coat them in the sauce and let everything simmer together for a few minutes to heat through.
6. Serve:
To plate up, serve the meatballs over a hearty scoop of mashed potatoes. Drizzle with plenty of gravy, add a side of steamed vegetables, and finish with a dollop of lingonberry sauce or cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness. Enjoy your delicious Swedish meatballs!
Can I Use Different Meats for the Meatballs?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just make sure to keep the proportion of meat around one pound for the best texture. If you use turkey or chicken, consider adding a bit of extra seasoning to boost the flavor.
How Can I Thicken the Gravy If It’s Too Thin?
If your gravy turns out too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk this mixture into the gravy while it simmers. Allow it to cook for an additional couple of minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance! Form the meatballs and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze them uncooked for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before cooking when you’re ready to enjoy them!
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the meatballs in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through, adding a bit of broth or water to keep them moist.
