Mom’s Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Swedish meatballs are a beloved comfort food, known for their tender texture and flavorful gravy. This recipe for Mom’s Swedish Meatballs is a family favorite, bringing together perfectly seasoned meatballs with a rich, creamy gravy. Let’s explore how to make this classic dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Meatballs

• 3 lb ground beef
• 1 white onion, diced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup fresh chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 2 teaspoons coarse ground salt
• 1 teaspoon coarse ground pepper

Gravy

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) beef consomme
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon coarse ground salt
• 1 teaspoon coarse ground pepper

Serving/Plating

• 12 oz medium egg noodles, cooked according to package directions
• 1/4 cup butter
• 3 tablespoons fresh chopped flat-leaf parsley

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced onion, lightly beaten eggs, seasoned dry bread crumbs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the ground beef and mix lightly but thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Shape Meatballs: Shape the meat mixture into 1-1/2 inch meatballs. You should have about 36 meatballs.
3. Brown Meatballs: In a large skillet, brown the meatballs in batches over medium heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the browned meatballs and place them on paper towels to drain, reserving the drippings in the pan for the gravy.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

1. Create Roux: Stir the flour into the reserved drippings in the skillet. Cook and stir the mixture until it turns light brown, being careful not to burn it.
2. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Then, stir in the beef consomme and Worcestershire sauce. Add the salt and pepper.
3. Thicken Gravy: Bring the gravy to a boil, then cook and stir for about 2 minutes or until thickened.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs in Gravy

1. Simmer Meatballs: Return the browned meatballs to the pan with the gravy. Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and coating with the gravy.

Step 4: Prepare the Noodles

1. Cook Noodles: While the meatballs are simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain the noodles and toss them with the butter.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the meatballs and gravy over the buttered egg noodles. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley for a fresh, flavorful finish.

Tips for Perfect Swedish Meatballs

1. Mixing the Meat: Be careful not to overmix the meatball ingredients. Overmixing can result in tough meatballs.
2. Browning the Meatballs: Make sure to brown the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures that they brown evenly and develop a good crust.
3. Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more milk or beef consomme. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
4. Noodle Preparation: Tossing the noodles with butter not only adds flavor but also helps to prevent them from sticking together.

FAQs

Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time. Shape and brown the meatballs, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before continuing with the recipe. You can also freeze the browned meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding to the gravy.

What Can I Substitute for Beef Consomme?

If you don’t have beef consomme, you can use beef broth or beef stock as a substitute. Consomme has a richer flavor, so if using broth or stock, you might want to reduce it a bit to concentrate the flavor.

How Can I Make the Gravy Thicker?

If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water. Gradually stir the slurry into the gravy, cooking until it reaches your desired thickness.

Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the meatballs are fully cooked through.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to the gravy if it has thickened too much.

Conclusion

Mom’s Swedish Meatballs are a delightful, comforting dish that combines tender, flavorful meatballs with a rich, creamy gravy. Served over buttered egg noodles and garnished with fresh parsley, this meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Follow the steps and tips provided to create this classic dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!