Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy: A Timeless Nordic Classic

If there’s one dish that brings comfort and elegance together on a single plate, it’s the iconic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy. Rich, tender, and spiced to perfection, this recipe is beloved worldwide—not just in the home kitchens of Sweden. Whether you’re craving cozy fall comfort food, planning a festive holiday spread, or just want to try your hand at an internationally-loved classic, this recipe delivers big flavor in every bite.

Swedish meatballs (or köttbullar, as they’re called in Sweden) are more than just their IKEA fame—they’re a cultural treasure and a culinary staple. These perfectly seasoned meatballs, swimming in a luscious, creamy gravy, are traditionally served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and pickled cucumbers. But they’re versatile enough to stand alone or be paired with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Let’s dive into how to make these authentic Swedish meatballs, from kitchen prep to serving tips, with everything you need to make your version unforgettable.

Who This Recipe Is For

This dish is ideal for:

• Home cooks wanting to master a European comfort classic.

• Foodies looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game.

• Hosts planning a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.

• Anyone nostalgic for that cozy, creamy meatball flavor (yes, even the IKEA kind—but better!).

Whether you’re a beginner looking to impress or an experienced cook ready to bring your meatball game up a notch, this guide is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich flavor: A mix of ground beef and pork ensures depth and juiciness.

• Classic Nordic spices: Nutmeg and allspice set these meatballs apart.

• Luxe gravy: A creamy, buttery sauce that perfectly coats every bite.

• Freezer-friendly: Make ahead for quick meals.

• Customizable: Easy to adapt to different diets or preferences.

Ingredients Overview

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (15–20% fat recommended)

• ½ lb ground pork

• ½ cup plain or Italian breadcrumbs

• ½ cup whole milk

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

• ¼ tsp ground allspice

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Creamy Gravy:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl

• Small skillet

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Whisk

• Baking sheet with parchment paper

• Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)

• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by sautéing your finely chopped onion in a tablespoon of butter until it’s soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. Let it cool slightly to prevent curdling the egg later.

In a large bowl, combine your ground meats, sautéed onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, allspice, and parsley. Mix with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Tip: Don’t overmix—this leads to dense meatballs!

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Scoop the mixture into small, even balls (1 to 1.5 inches in diameter). Use damp hands or a cookie scoop for consistency. Place on a lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, about 4–5 minutes per side, or until they’re fully cooked (internal temp of 160°F/70°C). Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Gravy

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those drippings are gold), add another tablespoon of butter. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 2 minutes until light golden.

Slowly whisk in beef broth, then the heavy cream and soy sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the meatballs to the pan and spoon the gravy over them. Let them simmer together for 2–3 minutes. Now they’re ready to serve.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Breadcrumb swap: Use crushed crackers or gluten-free panko for dietary needs.

• Dairy-free: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk; use a dairy-free cream or thickened coconut milk for the gravy.

• Make ahead: You can fully cook and freeze the meatballs. Just reheat in the gravy when ready to serve.

• Baking option: Bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes if you prefer to avoid pan-frying.

• Herb twist: Add a pinch of thyme or rosemary for a modern flair.

What to Serve with Swedish Meatballs

Swedish meatballs are delicious with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes (a classic!)

• Egg noodles or buttered pasta

• Steamed green beans or roasted carrots

• Lingonberry jam: A tart-sweet balance to the savory dish

• Crusty sourdough bread to mop up that gravy

Drink pairings: Try with a glass of chilled Riesling or a Swedish beer like Nils Oscar or Oppigårds Golden Ale.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

These meatballs store beautifully:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze meatballs and gravy separately or together for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use only beef instead of a beef-pork mix?
Yes, but pork adds richness and tenderness. If using only beef, consider increasing the fat content slightly.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken will work, but the flavor will be lighter. Increase seasoning accordingly.

Why are my meatballs tough?
Overmixing the meat or packing it too tightly when shaping are common culprits. Mix gently and shape loosely.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales easily. Just use a larger skillet or cook in more batches.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Very! The mild spices are usually a hit, but you can reduce nutmeg and allspice if preferred.

Final Thoughts

Swedish meatballs with creamy gravy are the definition of cozy indulgence. They’re easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for entertaining. The savory, spiced meatballs paired with silky gravy make this a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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