SWEDISH MEATBALLS (KÖTTBULLAR): A CLASSIC NORDIC COMFORT FOOD

Authentic Swedish Meatballs Recipe – Creamy & Flavorful Köttbullar

Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) are a beloved Scandinavian dish featuring tender, spiced meatballs smothered in a rich, creamy gravy. Serve them with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, or buttered noodles for the ultimate comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🥩 Juicy & Tender – Perfectly seasoned meatballs with a soft texture.
🥄 Rich & Creamy Sauce – A velvety gravy that’s packed with flavor.
⏳ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes!
🍽️ A True Classic – A Swedish favorite loved worldwide.

What Are Swedish Meatballs?

Swedish meatballs, known as Köttbullar, are small, tender meatballs made with a mix of beef and pork, breadcrumbs, onions, and warming spices like allspice and nutmeg. They are traditionally served with a creamy brown gravy, mashed potatoes, and lingonberry sauce.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:
✅ ½ lb (225g) ground beef
✅ ½ lb (225g) ground pork
✅ ½ cup breadcrumbs
✅ ¼ cup milk
✅ 1 small onion (finely chopped)
✅ 1 egg
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
✅ ½ tsp ground allspice
✅ ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
✅ 1 tbsp butter (for frying)

For the Creamy Gravy:
✅ 2 tbsp butter
✅ 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
✅ 2 cups beef broth
✅ ½ cup heavy cream
✅ 1 tsp Dijon mustard
✅ Salt & pepper to taste

HOW TO MAKE SWEDISH MEATBALLS (STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE)

🔸 Soak the Breadcrumbs
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb.

🔸 Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, pork, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg until well combined. Roll into 1-inch meatballs.

🔸 Cook the Meatballs
Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides (about 6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.

🔸 Make the Gravy
In the same pan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Slowly add beef broth, stirring continuously. Let simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

🔸 Combine & Serve
Return the meatballs to the pan and simmer in the gravy for 5 minutes until heated through.

🔸 Enjoy!
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, or egg noodles.

Serving Suggestions

🥔 With Mashed Potatoes – The classic way to enjoy them!
🍞 With Buttered Noodles – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
🍇 With Lingonberry Sauce – Adds a sweet-tart contrast.

Pro Tips for the Best Swedish Meatballs

✔️ Use a mix of beef & pork for the best flavor and texture.
✔️ Brown the meatballs well before adding to the sauce for extra depth.
✔️ Let the sauce thicken slowly for the richest flavor.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

🔹 Can I Make Swedish Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

🔹 Can I Freeze Swedish Meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked or fully cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

🔹 What’s a Good Substitute for Lingonberry Sauce?
Cranberry sauce is a great alternative!

Final Thoughts 🥄

Swedish Meatballs are a comforting, flavorful, and creamy classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Try this easy homemade recipe today and enjoy a taste of Sweden!

Want More?

Craving more hearty and flavorful dishes? Discover our juicy creations in the Meat Delights section!