Irresistible Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, juicy meatball coated in a rich, creamy gravy that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for “Dancing with the Stars.” The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table in eager anticipation. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to cozy Scandinavian winters, complete with fluffy snowflakes and warm woolen blankets.

Now, let me take you back to my first encounter with these delightful morsels at a family gathering. My Uncle Lars challenged me to make the best Swedish meatballs ever, insisting that his secret was all in the gravy. Spoiler alert: It took hours of experimentation, countless taste tests (someone had to do it), and a few too many hysterical kitchen mishaps. But when I finally nailed it, I knew I had struck gold! Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together.

Ingredients for Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess grease. You can also mix in some ground turkey for added flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain breadcrumbs which help bind the mixture while keeping it tender.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion adds moisture and sweetness; sauté it lightly before mixing it into the meat.
• Egg: A large egg helps bind everything together and gives structure to each meatball.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic yet essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in your meatballs.

For the Sauce:

• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
• Cream: Heavy cream creates a luscious texture in the sauce; feel free to use half-and-half if you’re looking for something lighter.
• All-Purpose Flour: This thickens your gravy beautifully; ensure it’s well mixed with broth to avoid lumps.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping your onion finely and sautéing it in a bit of oil over medium heat until translucent—about five minutes should do the trick. Let it cool before adding it to your meat mixture.

Step 2: Mix It Up

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (yes, get messy) to mix everything until well combined but don’t overdo it; you want tender meatballs!

Step 3: Shape Those Meatballs

Using about two tablespoons of mixture per meatball, roll them into balls about the size of golf balls or whatever size fits comfortably in your mouth—no judgment here!

Step 4: Cook Them Right

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the meatballs gently into the pan without overcrowding them (they need their space). Cook until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through—about ten minutes total.

Step 5: Make That Gravy

In the same skillet after removing the meatballs, add flour and whisk it around for about one minute until golden brown. Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring continuously until smooth. Finally, add cream and bring to a gentle simmer—season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Return those glorious meatballs back into the gravy, letting them soak up all that creamy goodness for about five minutes on low heat. Transfer everything onto plates and watch those smiles bloom as you serve!

There you have it! Your Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy are ready to impress friends and family alike. Gather around that dinner table and enjoy each bite! Don’t forget—the leftovers (if there are any) make excellent sandwiches or toss them on pasta for another meal.

Happy cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy, start by mixing the meat and seasonings first. While they chill, prepare your gravy base, then cook the meatballs until golden brown. Finally, combine everything for a delicious finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy! Swap beef for turkey or add chopped mushrooms to the mix. Experiment with different herbs or even throw in some grated cheese for a delightful twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them until heated through, ensuring they remain juicy and tender.

It was my grandmother’s recipe that first sparked my love for cooking—her Swedish meatballs were legendary at family gatherings. I still remember everyone fighting over the last bite!

FAQs:

What are Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy made of?

Authentic Swedish meatballs typically consist of ground beef, chicken, or turkey mixed with breadcrumbs, onions, and seasonings. The creamy gravy is usually made from a blend of vegetable or chicken broth, cream, and flour for thickening. Some recipes may include plant-based gelling agents to achieve the desired consistency without using gelatin. This combination creates a rich and flavorful dish that pairs well with lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes.

How do I make the gravy for Authentic Swedish Meatballs?

To make the creamy gravy for Authentic Swedish meatballs, start by sautéing onions in a pan until soft. Then add flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in vegetable or chicken broth, followed by cream to achieve a smooth texture. Simmer until thickened, adding salt and pepper to taste. If desired, incorporate some plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar for added richness. This gravy perfectly complements the meatballs and enhances their flavor.

Can I freeze Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy?

Yes, you can freeze Authentic Swedish meatballs with creamy gravy! To do this effectively, allow the meatballs to cool completely after cooking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag along with the gravy and seal tightly. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot. This makes it easy to meal prep while still enjoying delicious homemade flavors.

Are there any variations for Authentic Swedish Meatballs?

Absolutely! There are many delightful variations of Authentic Swedish meatballs you can try. You can substitute different types of ground meat such as lamb or even create a vegetarian version using lentils or mushrooms as the base. Additionally, experimenting with spices like nutmeg or allspice can add unique flavors to your dish. Feel free to adjust the creamy gravy by using coconut milk for a dairy-free option or incorporating herbs for a refreshing twist.

Conclusion for Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy:

In summary, Authentic Swedish meatballs with creamy gravy offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that everyone loves. Made from ground beef, chicken, or turkey paired with a luscious gravy, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. It’s versatile enough for meal prep or special occasions alike. With easy-to-follow steps and ingredient substitutions available, anyone can recreate this classic recipe at home while avoiding specific ingredients like pork and alcohol. Enjoy this timeless favorite today!

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Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy are a comforting dish that embodies the warmth of Scandinavian cuisine. These tender meatballs, seasoned to perfection and enveloped in a rich creamy gravy, create a delightful flavor experience that is sure to impress at any gathering. Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive occasions, this easy-to-follow recipe brings the taste of tradition right to your table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

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Instructions

1. Sauté the finely chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until translucent (about 5 minutes). Allow to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed onions, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
3. Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 2 tablespoons each).
4. In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook meatballs until browned on all sides (approximately 10 minutes).
5. Remove meatballs and add flour to the skillet; whisk for about a minute until golden brown. Gradually stir in beef broth and cream until smooth. Simmer until thickened.
6. Return meatballs to the gravy and simmer on low for about 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Scandinavian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 meatballs (200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 80mg