There’s nothing quite like a plate of Swedish Meatballs when you’re in the mood for something cozy and comforting. These tender meatballs, made with a mix of ground beef and pork, are simmered in a rich, savory gravy and served over egg noodles or mashed potatoes, whatever feels most like home. It’s the kind of meal that always hits the spot and is surprisingly easy to make. If you’re into comfort food like this, don’t miss our Salisbury Steak Meatballs too!
Why You’ll Love These Swedish Meatballs
These Swedish meatballs stay true to tradition, using ground beef and pork for the best texture and flavor. The addition of milk-soaked breadcrumbs and egg creates a tender, moist meatball, while diced onion and parsley add subtle depth. Once seared in butter until golden brown, the meatballs are coated in a luscious gravy made from beef broth, sour cream, and a simple roux. Served over a bed of buttery egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes, the result is a hearty, comforting dish that feels like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen in Sweden.
Pro Tips for Perfect Swedish Meatballs
- Don’t overwork the meat mixture. Mixing by hand just until combined keeps the meatballs tender.
- Use a cookie scoop or wet hands to portion the meatballs evenly for consistent cooking.
- Deglaze the skillet. When making the gravy, scrape up all those flavorful browned bits left behind from cooking the meatballs, they’re packed with umami.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
Swedish meatballs are a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can shape the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Once cooked, they’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. They also freeze beautifully, store fully cooked meatballs and gravy together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of broth to loosen the gravy.
Whether served at a cozy weeknight dinner or as a comforting dish for a gathering, these Swedish Meatballs are sure to impress. The rich gravy and tender meatballs are irresistible. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
Swedish Meatballs
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- 1 cup plain bread crumbs
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg beaten
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter
Gravy
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Make the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ground pork, salt, pepper, onion, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, combine bread crumbs, milk, and egg.
- Pour the breadcrumb mixture into the meat and mix by hand until just combined. Form into meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 20 minutes total. Transfer to a plate and tent to keep warm.
Make the Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1–2 minutes until golden. Slowly whisk in beef broth, then stir in sour cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
Combine and Serve:
- Return meatballs to the skillet and coat with gravy. Serve warm over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
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