Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Name: Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491152H21M53S
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 26 ounces frozen meatballs (precooked); 4 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: December 11, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: Just throw everything into the crockpot and let it do the work. Perfect for busy schedules!
Rich Flavor: The creamy gravy combined with spices elevates the taste, ensuring every bite is delightful.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve over egg noodles, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a variety of meals.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings; everyone will love this comforting dish.
Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for all cooking levels.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Skillet
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: Offers convenience by allowing you to cook meals hands-free while you focus on other tasks.
Skillet: Essential for creating the roux that thickens the gravy, ensuring a rich texture.
Whisk: Helps integrate ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in your gravy.

Ingredients

This Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy recipe features tender frozen meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy gravy—perfect for beginner cooks craving comfort.

For the Meatballs and Gravy

26 ounces frozen meatballs (precooked)
4 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 dash allspice
1 dash nutmeg
Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Serving

Egg noodles (for serving)
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Place the frozen meatballs at the bottom.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
1. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
2. Cook until slightly golden.

Step 3: Create the Gravy

Slowly add beef broth and heavy cream while whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
1. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, allspice, and nutmeg.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Pour the creamy gravy over the meatballs in the crockpot.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4–5 hours until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Crockpot Swedish Meatballs over egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy this delicious dish that brings comfort to your table!

How to Serve Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Over Egg Noodles

Egg noodles complement the rich gravy perfectly, allowing you to soak up every delicious bite.

With Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting base, making for a hearty plate.

On Rice

Serve the meatballs over fluffy rice for an easy yet satisfying meal option.

In a Submarine Sandwich

Place the meatballs and gravy in a toasted sub roll for a tasty sandwich twist.

With Fresh Greens

Pair with a simple salad to balance the richness of the meatballs and gravy.

Garnished with Parsley

Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness to this flavorful dish.

How to Perfect Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Making the perfect Crockpot Swedish Meatballs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips for success.

Use quality meatballs: Opt for precooked frozen meatballs that are well-seasoned and made from quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Make a smooth gravy: Whisk the flour thoroughly into the butter before adding liquids to avoid lumps in your gravy.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your gravy before pouring it over the meatballs, adjusting salt and pepper as needed for your palate.
Cook low and slow: For maximum flavor development, cooking on low heat allows the ingredients to meld beautifully over time.
Garnish creatively: Experiment with fresh herbs or even grated cheese to enhance presentation and taste.
Pair wisely: Choosing the right side dishes can complement your meatballs, making your meal more delightful.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that go perfectly with Crockpot Swedish Meatballs.

Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and buttery, they provide a wonderful base for soaking up gravy.
Steamed Broccoli
A healthy green option that adds color and crunch, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
Roasted Carrots
Sweet and slightly caramelized, roasted carrots bring warmth and sweetness to your plate.
Garlic Bread
Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up extra sauce from your bowl—an irresistible addition!
Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and texture, creating an excellent contrast with creamy flavors.
Quinoa Salad
Light and nutritious, quinoa salad provides a refreshing alternative that’s packed with protein.
Cauliflower Rice
A lower-carb option that pairs well without overpowering the flavors of the main dish.
Cucumber Salad
Crisp cucumbers dressed in vinegar add a refreshing crunch that complements the savory meatballs nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy turn out perfect every time. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the slow cooker beyond its capacity can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amount of meatballs for best results.
Skipping the Roux: Not creating a roux can result in a lumpy gravy. Always take a moment to whisk flour with butter until smooth before adding liquids.
Inadequate Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high or low for too long can dry out meatballs. Follow the specified times closely for tender, juicy meatballs.
Not Garnishing: Skipping fresh parsley as a garnish can miss adding that final touch of flavor and color. A sprinkle of parsley elevates the dish’s presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Enjoy within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, and consume within 2–3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place meatballs in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5–7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Yes! Homemade meatballs work great in this recipe. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.

How do I thicken the gravy further?

If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy?

Egg noodles are classic, but mashed potatoes or rice also complement this dish beautifully.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative for similar results without dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy recipe is not only easy but also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Whether served over egg noodles or mashed potatoes, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Feel free to customize the spices or add veggies to create your own version!

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