Name: Creamy Swedish Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1/2 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup grated onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter (for browning); 2 tablespoons butter (for sauce); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Swedish meatballs are the epitome of comfort food, and this creamy version brings all the cozy vibes with tender, flavorful meatballs smothered in a luscious, rich gravy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, these meatballs deliver big on flavor and nostalgia. Think IKEA, but homemade and way better.

With just the right balance of spices, a buttery cream sauce, and that irresistible golden-brown crust on every meatball, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Pair it with mashed potatoes, noodles, or lingonberry jam for the perfect classic combo.

What Kind of Ground Meat Should I Use?

Swedish meatballs traditionally use a blend of ground beef and pork. The pork adds fat and flavor, while the beef provides structure. If you prefer a leaner option, you can go with all beef, but mixing both delivers the most tender and flavorful results. For a lighter twist, ground turkey works too.

Ingredients for the Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Ground beef and pork: The hearty base of the meatballs.

Breadcrumbs: Help hold the mixture together and absorb flavor.

Egg: Binds the meatball mixture.

Onion: Adds sweet, aromatic depth.

Garlic: A punch of savory flavor.

Nutmeg and allspice: Classic Swedish spices for warmth and a subtle kick.

Salt and pepper: To enhance all the flavors.

Butter and olive oil: For browning the meatballs.

Flour: Thickens the creamy gravy.

Beef broth: Forms the savory base of the sauce.

Heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.

Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard: Adds umami and tang.

Fresh parsley: Optional, but lovely as a garnish.

How To Make the Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, minced garlic, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined without overworking.

Step 2: Form and Cook the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Gravy

In the same skillet, melt more butter. Whisk in flour and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs in the Gravy

Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let the flavors meld. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Serve these golden, creamy meatballs hot over a bed of mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or rice. Add a dollop of lingonberry jam for an authentic Swedish touch.

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken in the fridge but loosens beautifully when gently reheated with a splash of broth or cream.

What to Serve With Creamy Swedish Meatballs?

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Creamy potatoes are the perfect base for soaking up all that rich gravy.

Egg Noodles

A classic pairing that lets the meatballs shine.

Steamed Green Beans

For a pop of color and freshness.

Lingonberry Jam

The tangy sweetness beautifully cuts through the richness.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes add hearty balance to the meal.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Comfort in Every Bite?

If you love these creamy Swedish meatballs, you’ll want to try these other cozy recipes:

Easy Shepherd’s Pie for another meaty classic topped with creamy mash.
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy that’s perfect over biscuits or rice.
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight for a lighter, wholesome option.
Easy Beef Stroganoff to double down on the comfort factor.
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy if you’re after more gravy goodness.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this cozy dinner idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when cravings hit.

Tried it with your own twist? Maybe you added mushrooms to the gravy or swapped in chicken? I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your tips and tricks in the comments!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite comfort meal is just a click away.

Creamy Swedish Meatballs

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Get ready to fall in love with these homemade creamy Swedish meatballs—tender bites of beef and pork blended with cozy spices and smothered in a silky, rich gravy. This easy recipe is a family-favorite comfort meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. Serve them with buttery mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner idea or need food ideas for hearty gatherings, this recipe has you covered. Think easy dinner with bold flavor, creamy textures, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Perfect for anyone needing new dinner ideas or a timeless classic with a comforting twist.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper until just combined.

2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning to cook all sides. Transfer to a plate.

4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.

5. Gradually whisk in beef broth while scraping up browned bits.

6. Add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until slightly thickened.

7. Return meatballs to the skillet and cook in the sauce for 5–7 minutes.

8. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.