Swedish meatballs and noodles is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender, flavorful meatballs with a side of noodles.
The meatballs are typically made from a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with spices like nutmeg and allspice, and often served with a creamy gravy.
Paired with noodles, this dish creates a hearty meal that’s both delicious and filling.
The combination of savory meatballs and the smooth texture of noodles makes it a popular choice for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients:
FOR MAKING THE SWEDISH MEATBALLS, I USED:
2 Tbsp.Of olive oil.
A diced onion.
500 grams.Of lean ground beef.
500 grams.Of ground pork.
½ Cup.Of breadcrumbs.
2 egg yolks.
¼ Tsp.Of ground allspice.
¼ Tsp.Of ground nutmeg.
1½ Tsp.Of kosher salt.
¾ Tsp.Of fresh ground black pepper.
THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THE GRAVY:
¼ Cup.Of unsalted butter.
⅓ Cup.Of all-purpose flour.
3¾ Cups.Of low-sodium beef broth.
¾ Cup.Of sour cream.
2 Tbsp.Of fresh chopped parsley.
500 grams.Of cooked egg noodles, or brown rice for serving.
PREPARATION:
1st Step
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
After adding the onion, continue to cook while turning it constantly for approximately two to three minutes, until the onion becomes translucent, and then remove it from the pan.
2nd Step
Mix the ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, egg yolks, allspice, and nutmeg together in a large bowl.
Add in the onion, you can add few pinches of salt and black pepper to taste as a seasoning.
3rd Step
Use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture until it is completely mixed. Make meatballs of about 1 1/2 inches in diameter by rolling the ingredients with clean hands into balls.
4th Step
To the pan, add the olive oil that is left over, which is one tablespoon.
After adding the meatballs in batches, fry them for about four to five minutes on each side, or until they are browned, then place on a lined platter with paper towels.
5th Step
In a pan, melt the butter to make the sauce for the Swedish meatballs.
After approximately one minute of whisking, the flour should have a light golden color.
6th Step
After gradually whisking in the beef stock, continue cooking while continuously swirling the mixture for approximately one to two minutes, or until it has become somewhat thicker.
7th Step
Stir in the sour cream, and then season it to taste with salt and pepper.
After adding in the meatballs, continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, continuing to stir every so often, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
8th Step
Serve immediately, and if wanted, garnish with parsley before serving.
Swedish meatballs and noodles are a classic comfort dish, but you can customize it in many ways to make it even more exciting.
Here are some variations and tips to elevate this dish:
Variations
Meatball Options:
Beef and Pork Blend: While traditional Swedish meatballs use a mix of beef and pork, you can add or replace with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for different flavor profiles.
Vegetarian Meatballs: Use plant-based ground meat or create meatballs from a combination of lentils, mushrooms, and breadcrumbs for a vegetarian option.
Spices and Flavorings:
Classic Spices: The traditional flavor includes allspice and nutmeg. For a twist, try adding cardamom, cinnamon, or even paprika for a hint of warmth.
Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill into the meatballs for added brightness.
Sauce Variations:
Creamy Sauce: The rich, creamy sauce made from sour cream and beef broth is a hallmark of Swedish meatballs. Add a dash of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the depth of flavor.
White Wine or Sherry: For extra richness, deglaze the pan with a bit of white wine or sherry before adding the broth and cream.
Mushroom Sauce: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor that pairs well with the creaminess.
Noodle Options:
Egg Noodles: Traditional egg noodles are the most common pairing, but you can switch it up with pappardelle, fettuccine, or even mashed potatoes for a more comforting version.
Grain Alternatives: For a healthier twist, serve the meatballs over quinoa, farro, or rice.
Zoodles or Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, use zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice.
Toppings and Sides:
Lingonberry Jam: A traditional Swedish accompaniment, the sweet and tart jam balances the rich cream sauce. If lingonberry jam isn’t available, try cranberry sauce or red currant jelly.
Pickled Cucumbers: Serve with a side of quick-pickled cucumbers for added crunch and acidity.
Grated Cheese: Sprinkle some Parmesan or Gruyère over the finished dish for a cheesy finish.
Tips for Making the Best Swedish Meatballs and Noodles
Keep the Meatballs Moist:
Soak the breadcrumbs in milk or heavy cream before adding them to the meat mixture to ensure the meatballs stay tender and moist.
Don’t overwork the meat mixture—gently mix to avoid tough meatballs.
Browning the Meatballs:
Sear the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures they brown evenly and develop a nice crust while locking in moisture.
Use the browned bits left in the pan (fond) to add extra flavor to the sauce.
Making the Sauce Smooth:
Whisk the sauce continuously when adding the broth and cream to prevent any lumps from forming.
If the sauce gets too thick, thin it out with additional broth or cream until it reaches the desired consistency.
Make-Ahead:
You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of extra liquid to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Balancing the Flavors:
Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning.
A splash of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can brighten up the sauce if it feels too heavy.
With these variations and tips, you can personalize your Swedish meatballs and noodles to suit your tastes or dietary needs while still enjoying the comforting essence of the dish.
Enjoy !