Simple Swedish Meatballs

Simple Swedish Meatballs are a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender, spiced meatballs with a rich, creamy gravy. This classic Scandinavian recipe is known for its warm, homey flavors, with a blend of allspice and nutmeg adding a unique depth to the meatballs. The creamy sauce, made with beef broth and sour cream, perfectly coats the meatballs, creating a dish that’s satisfying and delicious. Serve these meatballs over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a hearty meal that’s easy to make and sure to please.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk. Add the ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until just combined.
2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate.
3. Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking them until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until it forms a roux and turns golden brown, about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the Swedish meatballs hot over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

Enjoy your Simple Swedish Meatballs, a dish full of rich, comforting flavors that’s perfect for any occasion!