If you crave comfort food that warms your soul, you’ve come to the right place. Creamy Swedish meatballs served with fluffy mashed potatoes is a dish that never fails to impress. In this blog, I’ll guide you through each step, from crafting tender meatballs to making that irresistible sauce. Ready to bring a taste of Sweden into your kitchen? Let’s dive in and create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce Ingredients
– 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Mashed Potato Ingredients
– 2 lbs (900g) russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Making tender meatballs is a key step. I like to mix ground beef and pork for flavor. The breadcrumbs and milk help keep them moist. Always add onion, garlic powder, and onion powder. These spices add a lovely taste. Don’t forget salt and pepper for seasoning.
For the creamy sauce, you need to start with olive oil and butter. They create a rich base for the flour. Whisk the flour in to make a roux. Next, add beef broth slowly to avoid lumps. Stir in sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
Fluffy mashed potatoes are a must. Use russet potatoes for the best texture. Peel and cube them before boiling. After cooking, drain and return them to the pot. Add milk and butter for creaminess. Mash until smooth, and season with salt and pepper.
This mix of ingredients makes for a satisfying meal. It’s comforting and full of flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meatball Mixture
First, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, mix ground beef and ground pork. Add breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, and the egg. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to blend everything well. This step is key for tasty meatballs.
Cooking the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Shape the mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs. Place them in the hot skillet, but don’t crowd them. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning them to brown all sides. Once browned, set the meatballs aside on a plate.
Making the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once it melts, whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking to keep it lump-free. Stir until the sauce thickens, which takes about 3-5 minutes. Mix in sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Let this sauce simmer for another 5 minutes.
Preparing and Mashing the Potatoes
While the meatballs simmer, prepare your mashed potatoes. Fill a pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes, then place them back in the dry pot.
Combining Meatballs with Sauce
Return the browned meatballs to the sauce in the skillet. Gently coat them in the creamy sauce. Let them simmer for 10 minutes on low heat. This allows the meatballs to soak up all the wonderful flavors.
Serving Suggestions
On a plate, scoop a generous amount of fluffy mashed potatoes. Top with a hearty serving of meatballs and sauce. For a finishing touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This adds color and a bit of freshness to your dish. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Best Cooking Techniques for Meatballs
To make great meatballs, start with cold ingredients. Cold meat helps keep the meatballs firm. Mix gently to avoid tough meatballs. You want a soft, light texture. When shaping, keep them about 1 inch wide. This size cooks evenly. Cook the meatballs in batches. Overcrowding leads to steaming, not browning. Sear them in hot oil until golden brown. This locks in flavor and keeps them juicy.
How to Achieve Fluffy Mashed Potatoes
For light and fluffy mashed potatoes, use russet potatoes. They have a high starch content, perfect for mashing. Cut them into even cubes for quick cooking. Boil in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well to remove excess moisture. Add warm milk and butter for creaminess. Use a potato masher for a smooth texture. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make them gummy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Presentation Tips for Serving
When serving, choose a large white plate. This helps the colors pop. Start with a generous mound of mashed potatoes. Spoon the creamy meatballs on top, letting the sauce flow. Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color. For extra contrast, serve with a crisp green salad. This adds freshness and makes the dish look inviting.

Variations
Alternative Meat Combinations
You can mix meats for your meatballs. Try using ground turkey or chicken. They provide a lighter taste. You can also use just ground beef for a classic flavor. Mixing beef and pork gives a juicy bite. Adjust the seasoning based on your meat choice. You may need more or less salt and pepper.
Vegetarian or Vegan Options
If you want a meat-free meal, use plant-based ground meat. Many brands offer options that mimic beef or pork. You can also make meatballs from lentils or chickpeas. Just mash them up and add breadcrumbs, onion, and seasonings. For a richer taste, add nutritional yeast to your mixture. This gives it a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Flavor Additions or Substitutions
You can add fun flavors to your meatballs. Herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill can brighten the dish. For a spicy kick, mix in red pepper flakes. If you like a sweeter taste, add a bit of maple syrup to the sauce. Using different mustards can also change the flavor. Try spicy brown or whole grain mustard for a twist. Experiment with these options to find your favorite flavor.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, first let the meatballs cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. I recommend separating the meatballs from the sauce to keep their texture. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This method helps keep the meatballs tender and the sauce fresh.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing works well. Place the cooled meatballs and sauce in freezer-safe containers. You can also freeze them in portions for easy meals. They will last up to three months in the freezer. To prevent freezer burn, make sure to seal them tightly.
Reheating Tips
When ready to eat, thaw the meatballs in the fridge overnight. You can reheat them in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to keep the sauce creamy. Stir gently to avoid breaking the meatballs. If you prefer, you can use a microwave to warm them. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until they are hot throughout.
FAQs
Can I make Swedish meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Swedish meatballs ahead of time. Prepare the meatballs and cook them as directed. Once they cool, store them in a sealed container in the fridge. You can also freeze them for later use. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the sauce. This will keep them moist and tasty.
What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?
Swedish meatballs pair well with several sides. Fluffy mashed potatoes are a classic choice. You can also serve them with egg noodles or rice. For a fresh touch, add a crisp green salad. Lingonberry sauce is another tasty option. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the meatballs nicely.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce for your Swedish meatballs, use a simple method. Start by creating a roux. Cook equal parts butter and flour in the skillet before adding the broth. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. If the sauce is still thin, mix together a bit of cornstarch and cold water. Add this mixture to the sauce while stirring. Let it simmer until it thickens to your liking.
We explored the key ingredients for meatballs, sauce, and mashed potatoes. I provided clear steps to make each part and shared cooking tips. You can also try variations like veggie options or different meats. I covered how to store extras and reheat them properly. With these insights, you can create a delicious meal that impresses everyone. Enjoy cooking, and remember, practice makes perfect!
