When you think of comfort food with a European flair, few dishes match the rich flavor and cozy appeal of a traditional Swedish meatballs recipe. Known for its creamy sauce, spiced meatballs, and perfect pairing with mashed potatoes or noodles, Swedish meatballs have become a household favorite not just in Sweden but around the world.
In this post, you’ll find the complete Swedish meatballs recipe with easy-to-follow steps, tips to get the texture just right, sauce variations, storage tips, and plenty of FAQs. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or recreating your favorite IKEA meal, this guide has everything you need.
What Are Swedish Meatballs?
Swedish meatballs, or “köttbullar” in Sweden, are small, spiced meatballs typically made with a mix of beef and pork. They’re lightly pan-fried and then simmered in a rich, creamy gravy made with broth, cream, and a hint of mustard or Worcestershire sauce. Unlike Italian meatballs, which are often served with tomato sauce and pasta, Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, and pickled cucumbers.
This Swedish meatballs recipe brings authentic Scandinavian flavors to your kitchen with simple ingredients and a few smart techniques.
Why You’ll Love This Swedish Meatballs Recipe
Here are a few reasons why this dish is such a global favorite:
- Classic comfort food that’s warm and satisfying
- Full of rich, creamy flavors balanced by light spices
- Pairs well with noodles, potatoes, or even rice
- Great for meal prep, holidays, or weeknight dinners
- Easily adaptable for different diets or tastes
Ingredients for Authentic Swedish Meatballs Recipe
For the Meatballs
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1/2 pound (225g) | Use 85% lean for moisture |
| Ground pork | 1/2 pound (225g) | Adds tenderness and flavor |
| Bread crumbs | 1/2 cup | Use plain or panko |
| Milk | 1/4 cup | Helps soften the breadcrumbs |
| Onion (grated) | 1 small | Grated for smooth texture |
| Egg | 1 | Acts as a binder |
| Ground allspice | 1/4 tsp | Traditional Swedish spice |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 tsp | Adds warmth and aroma |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust as preferred |
| Butter or oil | 2 tbsp | For frying |
For the Cream Sauce
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tbsp | For roux |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | To thicken the sauce |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | Rich and flavorful base |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | Makes it rich and creamy |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tsp | Optional, adds depth |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp | Optional, adds a little zing |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Balance the flavor |
Step-by-Step Swedish Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Breadcrumbs
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk and let them soak for 5 minutes. This step keeps the meatballs juicy and tender.
Step 2: Combine Meatball Ingredients
Add ground beef, pork, grated onion, egg, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper into the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything gently until just combined—don’t overmix or your meatballs will be tough.
Step 3: Shape and Brown the Meatballs
Form into small balls (about 1 inch). Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides in batches, then set them aside on a plate.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes until golden (this forms the roux). Slowly pour in beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in cream, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Add Meatballs to the Sauce
Return the meatballs to the sauce. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes until they are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened nicely.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice with a dollop of lingonberry jam and pickled cucumbers.
Tips for the Best Swedish Meatballs Recipe
- Use a blend of pork and beef for perfect flavor and texture
- Grate onions to avoid chunks in your meatballs
- Don’t overmix the meat – gentle hands make tender meatballs
- Brown the meatballs before simmering for best flavor
- Let the sauce simmer low and slow for richness
Perfect Pairings for Swedish Meatballs
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mashed potatoes | Creamy base complements the rich sauce |
| Egg noodles | Soaks up the sauce beautifully |
| Lingonberry jam | Traditional sweet-tart contrast |
| Pickled cucumber | Cuts the richness with freshness |
| Steamed vegetables | Light and healthy balance |
How to Store and Reheat Swedish Meatballs
Storing
- Cool completely before storing
- Store in airtight containers
- Lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator
Freezing
- Freeze meatballs and sauce separately
- Reheat in a pan or oven-safe dish with a splash of broth
Reheating
- Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat
- Add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce
Swedish Meatballs vs Italian Meatballs
| Feature | Swedish Meatballs | Italian Meatballs |
|---|---|---|
| Sauce | Creamy brown gravy | Tomato-based sauce |
| Spices | Allspice, nutmeg | Garlic, basil, oregano |
| Meat Mix | Beef + pork | Usually beef or pork or both |
| Serving Style | Mashed potatoes/noodles | Pasta or in subs |
Can You Make Swedish Meatballs Recipe Healthier?
Yes! Try these tweaks:
- Use ground turkey or chicken
- Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light cream
- Bake instead of frying
- Use oat flour instead of regular flour
FAQs About Swedish Meatballs Recipe
Can I use only beef?
Yes, but adding pork makes them more tender and juicy. You can also try a beef-turkey mix.
What can I use instead of cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or Greek yogurt (for a tangier flavor).
Is lingonberry jam necessary?
Not at all! But it adds a unique sweet contrast. If you can’t find lingonberry, try cranberry or raspberry jam.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. Many stores offer GF alternatives.
Can I bake the meatballs?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until golden. Then simmer in sauce as usual.
How do I prevent dry meatballs?
Use soaked breadcrumbs, avoid overcooking, and don’t overmix the meat mixture.
Where can I get authentic lingonberry jam?
You can find it in IKEA or order online from ScandinavianFoodStore.com for authentic Swedish flavors.
Swedish Meatballs Recipe Variations
Vegetarian Swedish Meatballs
Use mashed chickpeas, breadcrumbs, grated onion, and egg replacer. Serve with the same creamy sauce using plant-based milk and butter.
Keto Swedish Meatballs
Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and heavy cream without flour in the sauce. Serve with cauliflower mash.
Slow Cooker Version
Brown the meatballs and transfer them to a slow cooker. Add sauce ingredients and cook on low for 4–5 hours.
Swedish Meatballs Sliders
Stuff meatballs and sauce inside mini buns for a party-perfect snack.
Fun Facts About Swedish Meatballs
- The dish is believed to have originated from Turkey and was brought to Sweden by King Charles XII in the early 1700s.
- IKEA popularized Swedish meatballs globally by offering them in stores.
- Lingonberries grow wild in Sweden and are a staple side for many traditional meals.
- In Sweden, meatballs are often served on holidays like Christmas and Midsummer.
