Savory Swedish Comfort Meatballs
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of these Savory Swedish Comfort Meatballs! These delectable bites combine perfectly seasoned ground beef and pork, enveloped in a creamy, luxurious sauce that's simply irresistible. Passed down through generations, this family recipe has garnered rave reviews from friends and relatives alike, eagerly anticipating its appearance at gatherings and special occasions. Each bite is a delightful experience, blending the richness of meat, the freshness of herbs, and a comforting touch of sour cream. Serve over egg noodles or as a standalone dish, and let the compliments roll in!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground beef
1 lb (raw)
ground pork
1/2 lb (raw)
chopped onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
breadcrumbs
3/4 cup (plain)
egg
1 (beaten)
milk
1/2 cup (liquid)
dried parsley
1 tablespoon (dried)
Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon (liquid)
salt
2 teaspoons (seasoning)
pepper
1 teaspoon (seasoning)
vegetable oil
1/4 cup (liquid)
all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (dry)
paprika
1 teaspoon (ground)
sour cream
3/4 cup (dairy)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Swedish Comfort Meatballs?
They are a heartwarming dish featuring seasoned ground beef and pork meatballs served in a luxurious, creamy sour cream sauce.
What meats are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a combination of 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of ground pork for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I use only beef for the meatballs?
Yes, you can use all beef, but the inclusion of pork adds a traditional moisture and richness typical of Swedish recipes.
What makes the sauce creamy?
The creaminess comes from a combination of milk, all-purpose flour for thickening, and 3/4 cup of sour cream added at the end.
What is the best way to serve these meatballs?
They are traditionally served over egg noodles, but they also work wonderfully as a standalone dish or with mashed potatoes.
Is this a good recipe for holidays?
Absolutely! It is a family favorite often prepared for gatherings, special occasions, and holiday meals.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of plain breadcrumbs to act as a binder for the meat mixture.
Why is an egg included in the meatball mixture?
One beaten egg is used to bind the meat and breadcrumbs together so the meatballs hold their shape while cooking.
Can I use fresh parsley instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute fresh chopped parsley for the dried parsley; generally, you should use three times the amount of fresh herbs.
What does Worcestershire sauce add to the recipe?
Worcestershire sauce provides a deep, savory umami flavor that complements the richness of the ground meat.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 14 ingredients in total, including meats, seasonings, and the components for the sauce.
What type of oil is used for frying?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of vegetable oil to brown the meatballs and provide a base for the flour roux.
Is the onion cooked before being added to the meat?
The recipe lists 1/2 cup of chopped onion to be mixed into the raw meat before shaping.
How is the gravy thickened?
The gravy is thickened using a roux made from the cooking oil and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the breadcrumbs for gluten-free crumbs and the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
What role does paprika play in the sauce?
One teaspoon of ground paprika adds a subtle warmth and a beautiful golden-red color to the creamy sauce.
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, meatballs can be frozen. It is best to freeze the cooked meatballs and the sauce separately for the best texture upon reheating.
How long do leftovers stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these meatballs will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild, savory flavor profile and creamy sauce make it a popular choice for children.
Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of plain?
Yes, panko can be used, though it may result in a slightly lighter and airier meatball texture.
How much salt and pepper are needed?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper for seasoning.
Can I use milk alternatives in the meatball mix?
Yes, unsweetened almond or soy milk can be used if you need to avoid dairy, though the flavor may vary slightly.
What if I don't have sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a common substitute for sour cream, though it is slightly more acidic and less fatty.
How do I ensure the meatballs are flavorful?
The mix of beef and pork, combined with Worcestershire, onions, and parsley, provides a deep flavor profile.
Should the meatballs be browned first?
Yes, browning them in oil ensures a good crust and leaves flavorful drippings for the sauce.
Is this recipe considered 'easy'?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special events.
What is the texture of the meatballs?
The combination of milk-soaked breadcrumbs and mixed meats results in a very tender and soft meatball.
Can I prepare the meatball mixture in advance?
Yes, you can shape the meatballs and keep them covered in the fridge for several hours before cooking.
Is this an authentic Swedish recipe?
It is a family-inherited version of traditional Swedish meatballs, focused on comfort and classic flavors.
What is the primary flavor of the sauce?
The sauce is primarily savory and tangy, thanks to the sour cream and meat drippings.