Description
Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) are a comforting, savory dish featuring tender meatballs in a rich, creamy gravy. Made with a blend of ground beef and chicken, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for a cozy meal. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, and a side of lingonberry jam for a traditional touch.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce
Instructions
-
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix until just combined (avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender).
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
-
Cook the Meatballs:
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.
-
Prepare the Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
-
Combine and Serve:
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and spoon the gravy over them.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the meatballs through and let the flavors meld.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve with lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce.
Notes
- Spice Adjustment: If desired, add 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice and nutmeg for a more traditional Swedish flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free milk and butter substitutes to make this dish dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Swedish
