Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

These tender, flavorful Swedish Meatballs are a comfort food classic! Made with a blend of ground beef and pork, warm spices, and served in a rich, creamy gravy, they’re perfect over mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or impressing guests, this cozy dish delivers every time.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ⅓ cup milk
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 4 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
• ¼ cup grated yellow onion
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• ½ teaspoon each: black pepper, ground allspice, ground ginger, ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the Gravy

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups beef broth
• ⅔ cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional)
• Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Panade
   In a large mixing bowl, stir together the Panko breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb and soften while prepping other ingredients.
2. Mix the Meatball Mixture
   To the same bowl, add ground beef, ground pork, garlic, eggs, parsley, and grated onion. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, allspice, ginger, and nutmeg. Gently mix with your hands until just combined — avoid overmixing.
3. Form the Meatballs
   Using a cookie scoop or spoon, roll the mixture into 2-tablespoon-sized balls (about 40g each). Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking. Place on a clean plate or tray.
4. Brown the Meatballs
   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the meatballs in a single layer and brown on all sides, turning occasionally (about 5–7 minutes). Transfer to a clean plate. Repeat with remaining olive oil and meatballs.
5. Make the Gravy
   In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Simmer until thickened, then stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the Meatballs
   Return the browned meatballs to the pan in a single layer. Simmer in the gravy for 5–10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the meatballs are fully cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
7. Serve
   Spoon meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and freshly ground black pepper.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of flavor: The combination of beef, pork, and warm spices is rich and satisfying.
• Creamy, savory gravy: A perfect balance of beefy richness and subtle spice.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a batch ahead for quick meals later.
• Comfort food classic: A beloved dish that never goes out of style.

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Tips

• Grate the onion: Grated onion blends better into the meat mixture and keeps meatballs moist.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine ingredients for tender, not tough, meatballs.
• Make ahead: Form and brown meatballs in advance, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to simmer in gravy.
• Deglaze the pan: Don’t wipe the skillet before making the gravy — those browned bits add deep flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Meat substitutions: Use all beef or turkey for a leaner version.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based cream and butter alternatives.
• Gravy twist: Add Worcestershire or soy sauce for a deeper umami boost.

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FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet until browned and cooked through.

Can I freeze Swedish meatballs?
Absolutely. Freeze cooked meatballs (with or without gravy) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently.

Do I have to use both beef and pork?
Using both gives the best flavor and texture, but you can use just one type if needed.

Is Dijon mustard required?
No, but it adds a subtle tang and depth to the gravy. Feel free to omit if preferred.

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Serving

Swedish meatballs pair wonderfully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles
• Steamed rice or cauliflower mash
• Lingonberry jam (a traditional Swedish side!)
• Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables

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Suggestions

• Serve appetizer-style: Spear meatballs with toothpicks for parties.
• Make it a meal: Serve alongside a crisp cucumber salad or crusty bread.
• Double the gravy: For extra sauce lovers or when serving with noodles.
• Try in sliders: Add meatballs to small buns with a dollop of gravy for a fun twist.