Juicy Swedish Meatballs Creamy Gravy

These juicy Swedish meatballs are comfort food at its finest bringing together tender bites of meat with a creamy rich gravy the kind of recipe you make for cozy nights or family gatherings when everyone wants seconds

Ingredients

• Ground beef: gives the meatballs hearty flavor choose eighty five percent lean for juicy results
• Ground pork: adds richness and keeps things tender make sure it is fresh and pink
• Breadcrumbs: help bind everything together and lighten the texture look for unseasoned fine crumbs for best results
• Milk: brings moisture to the mix use whole milk if possible for a soft bite
• Egg: acts as a binder and ensures the meatballs hold up during cooking always check for freshness
• Salt: seasons every layer and helps bring out savory notes opt for kosher salt for easy mixing
• Black pepper: gives a gentle warmth to every bite freshly cracked makes a difference
• Butter: forms the base of a rich gravy always use unsalted so you control the salt level
• All purpose flour: thickens the sauce make sure it is not packed so the gravy stays silky
• Beef broth: creates a savory background look for low sodium and quality stock for best depth
• Heavy cream: turns the gravy luscious and smooth always use fresh cream for richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Meatball Mixture:

Combine ground beef ground pork breadcrumbs milk egg salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl Gently fold everything together with clean hands until evenly blended and just mixed being careful not to overwork

Shape the Meatballs:

Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll each into balls about one inch across Place them on a tray lined with parchment or a plate for easy transfer

Brown the Meatballs:

Set a large skillet over medium heat Once hot add meatballs in batches to avoid crowding Brown each one turning occasionally until each side is golden all over This builds deep flavor

Transfer to Bake:

Move browned meatballs into a baking dish arranging them in a single layer This step ensures even cooking while you finish the gravy

Make the Gravy:

In the same skillet lower the heat and melt the butter Add flour whisking constantly to form a smooth roux Cook for about one minute to take away the raw taste

Add Broth and Cream:

Slowly whisk in beef broth bit by bit scraping up fond from the pan Add heavy cream keep whisking until smooth Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the gravy is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon

Bake with Gravy:

Pour the finished gravy evenly over the meatballs in your baking dish Bake in your preheated oven for twenty to twenty five minutes Check for doneness with a thermometer or by slicing one open

Pin

One of my favorite memories is serving these at our holiday table where even the pickiest eaters ended up reaching for thirds I always take an extra taste of the gravy just to be sure it is perfect

Storage Tips

Let the meatballs and gravy cool completely before transferring everything to airtight containers Pop them into the fridge and enjoy within three days For longer storage freeze both meatballs and sauce in separate containers so the texture stays just right When reheating add a touch of cream or broth to refresh the gravy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for pork if you prefer a lighter meatball For a dairy free gravy use plant based milk and dairy free butter and skip the heavy cream substituting a thick oat cream instead If you are out of breadcrumbs rolled oats pulsed in a blender make a good stand in

Serving Suggestions

Always serve Swedish meatballs over a mound of creamy mashed potatoes for the classic experience If you want something lighter try them atop buttered egg noodles or even steamed rice A spoonful of lingonberry sauce or cranberry sauce on each plate gives a sweet tart accent that makes the flavors pop

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A Bite of History

Swedish meatballs trace their roots to the kitchens of Scandinavia but became a global favorite with their creamy sauce and simple spices Recipes have been passed down generations in many families mine included Each time I make them I think of snow falling outside and a warm kitchen inside

Recipe FAQs

→ What meats should I use for Swedish meatballs?

A combination of ground beef and ground pork delivers the ideal balance of flavor and tenderness.

→ How do I keep meatballs juicy and tender?

Use milk-soaked breadcrumbs and an egg to bind the mixture, ensuring a moist, delicate texture.

→ What makes the gravy creamy and flavorful?

Butter, flour, beef broth, and heavy cream combine to create a luscious, rich sauce enveloping the meatballs.

→ What is the traditional accompaniment for these meatballs?

Serve with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce to balance savory notes with a touch of sweetness.

→ Why should the meat mixture be handled gently?

Gentle mixing avoids dense meatballs, resulting in a soft, airy bite with each serving.