If you are craving a heartwarming dish that feels like a warm hug from Scandinavia, this Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Lingonberry Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly tender meatballs blended from beef and pork, enriched by the delicate sweetness of lingonberry jam, and wrapped in a silky, creamy gravy make this a meal that tastes like tradition on a plate. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating those tender, flavorful meatballs and that rich, luscious gravy which defines this classic Swedish favorite.
- 1 small onion (finely minced): Adds a subtle sweetness and moisture to the meatballs.
- 1/2 pound lean ground beef: Provides a rich, savory base with just the right amount of fat.
- 1/2 pound ground pork: Adds juiciness and tenderness to balance the beef.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Essential for binding the meat mixture without making it dense.
- 1 large egg: Helps hold the meatballs together for perfect shape and texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out the flavors and seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper: Offers a mild heat that complements but doesn’t overpower.
- 1 stick butter (or ½ cup oil): For sautéing and frying, giving a beautiful golden crust.
- Cornstarch (if needed): Optional thickener for the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To create the base of the creamy gravy.
- 2 cups beef stock: Builds a deep, savory sauce foundation.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess and balances the gravy’s texture.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: A subtle umami boost enhancing the sauce complexity.
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream (optional): For an extra silky finish in the gravy.
- 1 tablespoon lingonberry or red currant jam: The signature sweet-tart accent that defines the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To season the gravy perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper: To season the gravy gently.
How to Make Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Lingonberry Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Onion and Meat Mixture
Begin by sautéing the finely minced onion in half a tablespoon of butter over medium heat until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the onion, which will blend beautifully into the meatballs. Once cooked, let the onion cool to room temperature before adding it to your mixing bowl.
Step 2: Combine the Meat Ingredients
To the cooled onions, add the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and white pepper. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on medium-low speed, or simply your hands, gently blend everything just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the meatballs tender and not dense.
Step 3: Shape and Brown the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into medium-sized balls about an inch in diameter for perfect bite-sized portions. In a skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat until bubbly but not smoking. Fry the meatballs evenly, turning often, until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This browning contributes incredible flavor and texture. Remove and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate while you prepare the gravy.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Lingonberry Gravy
Drain excess fat from the skillet, leaving just a tablespoon of butter. Over medium-low heat, whisk in the flour and cook until it turns a delicate light brown, which will form a roux, thickening your sauce perfectly. Gradually add beef stock and milk, whisking consistently to avoid lumps. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, then stir in soy sauce and heavy cream if using for added smoothness.
Step 5: Season and Finish the Sauce
Add salt and white pepper to taste, then gently fold in the lingonberry jam, which gives this gravy its signature fruity tang. Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, coating them thoroughly in the luscious, creamy sauce. Warm everything together just until heated through, so each meatball is juicy and soaked with flavor.
How to Serve Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Lingonberry Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich meatballs and gravy. You might also try a few whole lingonberries on the side for a charming, traditional touch.
Side Dishes
The classic accompaniments are buttery mashed potatoes or creamy mashed rutabaga, which soak up every bit of that creamy lingonberry gravy. Alternatively, buttered egg noodles or steamed green beans provide a fresh, light counterpart that balances the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, serve your Swedish meatballs over a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice or alongside roasted root vegetables. A rustic wooden board with small bowls of gravy and lingonberry jam invites your guests to customize their bites—making dinner interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatballs with creamy lingonberry gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool them before sealing to help maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked meatballs separately on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze the gravy in a separate airtight container. This method keeps the integrity of both components and allows you to enjoy this Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Lingonberry Gravy Recipe anytime.
Reheating
Gently warm the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add the meatballs and cook until heated through. Avoid microwave reheating as it may toughen the meatballs or curdle the gravy.
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free flour substitute like rice flour or cornstarch for the gravy. This way, you keep all the taste and texture of the Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Lingonberry Gravy Recipe while accommodating dietary needs.
What can I use if I don’t have lingonberry jam?
If lingonberry jam is unavailable, red currant jam or cranberry sauce are excellent substitutes. Both maintain that essential sweet and tart contrast that complements the rich savory meatballs beautifully.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
You can prepare and shape the meatballs a day ahead, storing them uncooked in the refrigerator covered tightly. When ready, fry them and make the gravy for freshest results.
Is this dish traditionally served with any type of bread?
While traditional servings focus on potatoes or noodles, you can always serve crusty rye bread or buttered rolls on the side to soak up extra gravy and add a hearty element to your meal.
How spicy are Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Lingonberry Gravy Recipe?
These meatballs have a mild, comforting flavor profile. The white pepper adds just a gentle warmth that complements rather than overpowers. It’s a perfect dish if you prefer mild flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something deeply satisfying about making and sharing this Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Lingonberry Gravy Recipe. It’s a meal that connects you to centuries of tradition and brings joy to every bite. Whether you’re treating yourself or gathering loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
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Authentic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Lingonberry Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Svenska Köttbullar is an authentic Swedish meatball recipe featuring a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with onions, white pepper, and salt. The meatballs are pan-fried to a golden brown and served with a rich cream gravy made from beef stock, milk, and lingonberry jam for a traditional Scandinavian flavor. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy family meal and delivers an irresistible combination of tender meatballs and velvety sauce.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 small onion, finely minced
- 1/2 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 stick butter (or ½ cup oil)
- Cornstarch (if needed)
Cream Gravy
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lingonberry or red currant jam
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
Instructions
- Sauté onions: In a large cast-iron or non-stick skillet, heat ½ tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add finely diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from pan and let cool to room temperature in a bowl.
- Prepare meat mixture: Add ground beef and pork blend, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and white pepper to the cooled onions in the bowl. Using a paddle attachment or hands, mix on medium-low speed until the mixture is just blended – avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form meatballs: Roll the mixture into medium-size balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
- Fry meatballs: In the same skillet, heat the remaining butter until bubbly but not smoking. Fry meatballs over medium heat, turning frequently, until golden brown on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make cream gravy base: Drain off excess butter from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Over medium-low heat, whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute until lightly browned to remove raw flour taste.
- Add liquids to gravy: Gradually whisk in beef stock and milk, continuing to stir constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Season gravy: Add soy sauce and heavy cream if using. Return to simmer and cook for a couple more minutes, stirring until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Finish gravy: Season with salt and white pepper. Stir in lingonberry or red currant jam until fully incorporated for a characteristic sweet and tangy flavor.
- Combine meatballs and sauce: Return the fried meatballs to the skillet with the cream gravy, gently stirring to coat and warm through for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy the classic taste of Swedish meatballs!
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
- Use lean meats to reduce fat, but some fat improves the texture and flavor of meatballs.
- Lingonberry jam is traditional; if unavailable, red currant or cranberry jam make good substitutes.
- Do not overmix the meat to keep meatballs tender rather than dense.
- Heavy cream in the gravy is optional but adds richness and velvety texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt and pepper in the gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Swedish
