Most weeks, I dedicate a day to prepping meals ahead of time. This practice allows me to get organized and have time for other responsibilities (like looking after 6 kids!). Swedish meatballs are an excellent option for meal prep if you have a family to feed. They are protein-rich and cooked in a creamy, flavorful sauce.
THE BEST SWEDISH MEATBALLS
When you think of Swedish meatballs, you might picture a family dinner at Grandma’s or a visit to Ikea. These meatballs have been a staple in Sweden for ages, traditionally served with lingonberry jam. In contrast, the Americanized version often comes with a creamy gravy made using a roux of cornstarch or flour.
These meatballs are typically crafted from a blend of ground pork and beef, with a touch of nutmeg, and served atop egg noodles. Ingredients like Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard may also be included.
A FRESH TWIST
My version of Swedish meatballs shakes things up a bit but retains all the flavor. I use all ground beef, seasoned breadcrumbs, and minced parsley, steering clear of nutmeg. For a creamier texture, I opt for a mix of cream cheese and Greek yogurt high in protein, rather than heavy cream. They are the epitome of comfort food!
While some recipes suggest using a crockpot or slow cooker, I prefer making these on the stove. The kids and I can devour the entire batch in one sitting, so you might want to double or triple the recipe for leftovers. If meal prep is your goal, form the meatballs in advance and freeze them. When ready to eat, reheat the frozen meatballs on the stove and simmer them in the cream sauce after they’ve thawed.
The added sour cream and Greek yogurt impart a tartness, which is perfectly balanced with enough seasoning.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH SWEDISH MEATBALLS
While egg noodles are a common pairing with these meatballs, they are not a must. My family loves them with mashed potatoes. For a lower-carb alternative, try them with creamy garlic mashed cauliflower “potatoes” or even spaghetti squash.
Swedish Meatballs Recipe
This revamped version of classic Swedish meatballs is both tender and flavorful. They are simmered in a creamy sauce for a comforting dish. Serve over mashed potatoes or enjoy as a delicious appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 TBSP olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely minced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 large egg
– ¼ cup seasoned bread crumbs (gluten-free or homemade)
– ½ tsp salt (Kosher)
– ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
– 2 cups beef broth (reduced sodium)
– 3 oz cream cheese (reduced fat)
– ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion and garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Stir in minced parsley and let cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat to cool.
3. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, the cooled onion-garlic mixture, egg, seasoned breadcrumbs, kosher salt, and black pepper thoroughly.
4. Shape the mix into small, bite-sized meatballs.
5. In the same skillet, brown the meatballs on all sides over medium-high heat, adding more olive oil if needed. Cook them through.
6. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
7. Pour beef broth or stock into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
8. Add cream cheese, stirring until it melts and the mixture is smooth.
9. Stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream until well-integrated.
10. Return the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they’re coated in the sauce.
11. Let the meatballs simmer over low heat until they’re heated.
12. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper.
13. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Nutrition Facts
Swedish Meatballs Recipe
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories: 237 Calories from Fat: 117
% Daily Value*
– Fat: 13g (20%)
– Saturated Fat: 5g (31%)
– Trans Fat: 0.5g
– Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
– Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
– Cholesterol: 85mg (28%)
– Sodium: 678mg (29%)
– Potassium: 409mg (12%)
– Carbohydrates: 7g (2%)
– Fiber: 1g (4%)
– Sugar: 2g (2%)
– Protein: 21g (42%)
– Vitamin A: 339IU (7%)
– Vitamin C: 5mg (6%)
– Calcium: 75mg (8%)
– Iron: 2mg (11%)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Notes:
– These pair exceptionally well with mashed potatoes.
– For breadcrumbs, dried and blended sourdough is a good choice.
Need more appetizer ideas? My family enjoys these bacon chicken bites. They’re also perfect for a quick lunch.
What’s your favorite way to serve Swedish meatballs? Share your ideas in the comments!
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