Dinner Recipes

January 12, 2026

Swedish Meatballs and Sauce: 7 Comforting Reasons to Indulge

Name: Swedish Meatballs and Sauce: 7 Comforting Reasons to Indulge
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon allspice; 1/4 cup butter; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons flour

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

116 Views • 9 min read

Swedish Meatballs and Sauce: 7 Comforting Reasons to Indulge

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There’s just something about Swedish Meatballs and Sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate, don’t you think? The tender meatballs, perfectly seasoned and bathed in a rich, creamy sauce, make this dish a true comfort food classic.

I remember the first time I tried making these at home; the aroma wafting through the kitchen had everyone rushing to the table! It’s one of those meals that brings the family together, sparking laughter and stories over heaping servings.

Trust me, the unique creamy sauce is what really sets this recipe apart—it adds a luxurious touch that takes these meatballs to another level. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress and satisfy. You’re going to love it!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/4 cup butter
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons flour

How to Prepare Swedish Meatballs and Sauce

Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making these Swedish meatballs and sauce! It’s easier than you might think, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar by the end.

Step 1: Preheat and Mix

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important because it helps the meatballs cook evenly. While that’s heating up, grab a big bowl and mix together the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, and allspice. Make sure to mix it all thoroughly—this is where the magic happens! You want every bite to be flavorful and packed with that classic Swedish taste.

Step 2: Form and Bake Meatballs

Now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves! Form the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter—this size is just perfect for even cooking. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a bit of space. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re nicely browned and a little firm to the touch. Trust me, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

While those meatballs are baking, let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, add the flour and whisk until it’s smooth—this is your roux. Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking continually to avoid lumps. Afterward, stir in the heavy cream and soy sauce. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens up, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Wow, you’re going to love how rich it looks!

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Now comes the best part! Once your meatballs are out of the oven, gently add them to the skillet with the sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes, allowing those meatballs to soak up all that creamy goodness. Make sure to stir occasionally so every meatball gets coated in that luscious sauce. The combination of those flavors is just heavenly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in under an hour—perfect for weeknight dinners!
The flavors are unbelievably delicious, blending the savory meatballs with a creamy sauce that’s to die for.
It’s the ultimate comfort food, great for cozy nights in or when you want to impress guests.
Simple ingredients mean you probably have everything on hand already, so no last-minute store runs!
This dish is super versatile—serve it over pasta, rice, or with mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal!
Leftovers are just as amazing, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep!

Tips for Success

Before you dive into making these scrumptious Swedish Meatballs and Sauce, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way!

Don’t skip the allspice: It’s key to achieving that authentic Swedish flavor! If you can’t find allspice, a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can work in a pinch.
Breadcrumb choice matters: I love using fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter texture, but if you have dried ones, just make sure to soak them in milk for a few minutes before mixing.
Adjust the meat: Feel free to swap the ground pork for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Watch the baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on those meatballs! You want them golden brown but not overcooked—aim for that sweet spot where they’re juicy and tender.
Whisk it good: When making the sauce, don’t be shy with the whisk! This helps to blend the flour properly and prevent lumps, giving you a silky smooth sauce.
Serve it fresh: While the leftovers are still good, these meatballs are best enjoyed straight from the skillet. So, gather your loved ones and dig in right away for the ultimate experience!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re bound to create a dish that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Swedish Meatballs and Sauce, the possibilities are truly endless! My favorite way is to pair them with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up that luscious sauce beautifully. Trust me, the combination is comfort food at its finest!

If you want to add a touch of authenticity, don’t forget about lingonberry sauce! That sweet-tart flavor complements the savory meatballs so well, bringing balance to every bite. It’s a must-try, and you can usually find it at specialty stores or online.

Another option is to serve them over a bed of egg noodles or wide pasta. The sauce clings to the noodles in the most delightful way, making every forkful a joy. You could even toss in some steamed green beans or broccoli for a pop of color and a bit of crunch.

Feeling adventurous? Try stuffing the meatballs into a warm pita or soft roll to create a delicious meatball sandwich! Top it off with some fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. The sky’s the limit, so get creative with your sides and make this meal your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious Swedish Meatballs and Sauce is super simple, and it’s a great way to enjoy leftovers later! Just let the meatballs cool down to room temperature, then transfer them into an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. I usually like to separate the meatballs from the sauce when I store them, as this helps maintain their texture and flavor. Just make sure to seal everything tightly to keep them fresh!

When you’re ready to enjoy those scrumptious leftovers, reheating is a breeze. You can pop them in the microwave for a quick fix—just make sure to cover the container to avoid splatters. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until everything is warmed through.

If you have a bit more time, I recommend reheating them on the stovetop. Just place the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until they’re warmed up nicely. This method keeps the meatballs juicy and the sauce creamy, which is always a win!

So, whether you’re enjoying the meal right away or savoring the leftovers, you’re in for a treat every time. Happy feasting!

Nutritional Information

Before we dive into those mouthwatering Swedish Meatballs and Sauce, I want to give you a heads-up that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So keep that in mind when you’re preparing this delicious dish!

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg

This dish packs a nice punch of protein thanks to the combination of beef and pork, making it not just delicious but also satisfying. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite while keeping these nutritional insights in mind!

FAQs

Can I use different meats for Swedish meatballs?
Absolutely! While the classic mix of ground beef and ground pork is fantastic, you can easily swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!

What should I serve with Swedish meatballs and sauce?
I highly recommend serving them with creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles. You can also add a side of lingonberry sauce for that sweet-tart contrast that perfectly complements the savory meatballs. Don’t forget some steamed veggies for a pop of color!

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Feel free to prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze them uncooked and bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you’d like a thicker sauce, you can simmer it a little longer to reduce it. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency. It’s a quick trick that works wonders!

Can I store leftovers?
Definitely! Store any leftover Swedish meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

What do you think?

Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!

Swedish Meatballs and Sauce: 7 Comforting Reasons to Indulge

Mia

Ingredients