This Swedish Meatballs recipe delivers tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy gravy that’s full of classic comfort-food flavor. Easy to make and perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, these homemade Swedish meatballs are delicious served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice—and they reheat beautifully for leftovers.
Ingredients
- Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 small onion finely minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon allspice
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter for cooking
- Gravy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Meatballs
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) or prepare a large skillet for stovetop cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef, onion, egg, allspice, nutmeg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently just until combined—do not overmix.
- Roll into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown meatballs in batches, turning gently, for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Gravy
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly add beef broth, whisking constantly until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer until thickened.
- Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer gently for 5–10 minutes.
Notes
- Soaking breadcrumbs is key to keeping meatballs tender.
- Simmer gravy gently—do not boil, or it may separate.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.