This Easy Swedish Meatballs Recipe Will Be Your New Weeknight Hero!

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor, these Swedish meatballs are pure perfection. Soft, juicy meatballs smothered in a creamy, slightly sweet gravy make an ideal dinner over mashed potatoes or classic egg noodles. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for family meals or weeknight dinners.

Easy Swedish Meatballs

Ingredient Quantity
Ground beef 1 pound
Breadcrumbs 1/4 cup
Onion, finely chopped 1 small
Garlic, minced 1 clove
Dried parsley 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon
Ground allspice 1/8 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper To taste
Egg 1 large
Milk 1-2 tablespoons
Oil 1 tablespoon
Butter 3 tablespoons
Flour 3 tablespoons (or 2 for thinner gravy)
Beef broth 1 1/2 cups
Whole milk 1 cup
Smooth Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Grape jelly or lingonberry jam 1 tablespoon, or less to taste
Salt & black pepper To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs
    In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients except the oil. Knead thoroughly—using a handheld mixer with a dough hook makes it fast and easy. Take about 2 teaspoons of mixture and roll into firm meatballs. Optional: freeze for 5–10 minutes to help them hold their shape.
  2. Cook the Meatballs
    Heat oil in a wide, deep skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 6–8 minutes, until golden. Remove and set aside. Alternatively, bake on a lined baking sheet at 425°F for 10–12 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  3. Make the Gravy
    In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook while whisking until medium brown. Slowly pour in beef broth, whisking constantly, then add milk, Dijon mustard, and grape jelly. Simmer gently for about 1 minute until creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.
  4. Finish the Dish
    Return the meatballs to the skillet, gently warming them in the gravy. Serve immediately over mashed potatoes or classic egg noodles for a comforting, flavorful meal everyone will love.