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Classic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

A close-up of golden-brown Swedish meatballs swimming in a rich, creamy sauce with visible herbs.

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Make authentic, tender Swedish meatballs in a rich, creamy gravy. This IKEA-inspired recipe is perfect for a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides. Remove meatballs from skillet and set aside.
  4. Add flour to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Gradually whisk in beef broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Return the meatballs to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through.
  8. Serve hot over egg noodles or mashed potatoes, with lingonberry jam if desired.

Notes

  • For a smoother gravy, you can strain the beef broth before adding it to the skillet.
  • If you don’t have lingonberry jam, cranberry sauce can be a good substitute.
  • Ensure your meatballs are cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (71°C).

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