Cozy Up with Creamy Dreamy Homemade Swedish Meatballs
There's something magical about Swedish meatballs. They're not just food; they're a hug on a plate. Having tested numerous ingredient combinations and methods, I am so excited to share this version with you all. This is my absolute favorite! The perfect blend of tender, spiced meatballs and a luxurious, creamy gravy. Get ready to experience comfort food at its finest!
Why This Recipe Works
Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly tender meatball, made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, and infused with flavor from bread soaked in cream. These are then baked to a golden perfection and then gently coated in a rich, savory cream-based gravy. It's a taste of heaven. This dish will take a little time to prepare, but every step is simple and the result will leave you wanting more. Perfect for holiday meals, a dinner party, or those cozy nights in where you just want to eat something special.
The Secret to Tender Meatballs
The magic starts with soaking basic white bread in heavy cream. This might seem like an unusual step, but trust me, it is the secret to exceptionally tender and flavorful meatballs. The cream-soaked bread adds moisture and creates a wonderful, soft texture that is just unmatched. This creates meatballs that are perfectly moist and melt in your mouth. Make sure you don't skip this step!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Soak the Bread: Start by soaking slices of white bread in heavy cream. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until the bread is completely saturated and soft.
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the cream soaked bread with the ground pork, beef, butter, onion powder, garlic powder, an egg, brown sugar, salt and pepper. Gently roll the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. Bake until golden and cooked through.
- Create the Gravy: While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to prepare the gravy. Melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour, and gradually add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of nutmeg. Lastly, stir in the heavy cream until you have a silky smooth gravy. This sauce will be pure delight.
- Combine and Enjoy: Gently nestle the baked meatballs into the pan of creamy gravy. Stir it all together, and let the meatballs soak up all that flavor until they are completely coated and extra tender. Serve this with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce and a vinegary cucumber salad.
Tips for Success
- Don't overmix the meatball mixture. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Ensure the meatballs aren't touching each other on the baking sheet, this allows for even cooking and prevents them from steaming.
- Don't throw away the pan drippings from the baked meatballs, use them to create an even more flavorful gravy!
- Don't skip the sides! The lingonberries and vinegary cucumber salad really bring this dish together.
Serving Suggestions
To complete your Swedish meatball experience, try these classic side dishes:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The perfect bed for your saucy meatballs. Try using garlic herb infused mash for extra flavor!
- Lingonberry Sauce: The tangy sweetness of lingonberry sauce cuts through the richness of the meatballs and gravy perfectly.
- Vinegary Cucumber Salad: Adds a refreshing contrast and wakes up all the other components of the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all pork or all beef?
Yes! The flavor combo of the two meats is really good, but the all-beef versions that I’ve made are delicious as well.
How do I make the gravy?
You make a basic roux with butter and flour, then add beef broth, cream, Worcestershire sauce and a little nutmeg to it.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! The cooked meatballs freeze exceptionally well. Just bake them according to the recipe, allow them to cool, and then place them in a freezer bag. They will keep for up to two months. You can easily make a fresh batch of gravy when you are ready to eat them.
Time to Get Cooking!
These Swedish meatballs aren't just a meal; they are an experience. With their perfect blend of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that will warm your heart and soul. Enjoy!