Creamy Nordic Comfort: Swedish Meatballs with a Twist

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Swedish meatballs are beloved for their tender texture, comforting cream sauce, and a hint of warm spices. They bring a cozy, homey feeling to any meal, whether served with mashed potatoes, noodles, or even on their own as a hearty snack. This recipe gives you the classic creaminess with a delightful twist—an extra touch of fragrant nutmeg and just a bit of tangy mustard to brighten every bite.

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Ingredients

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  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Optional: Lingonberry jam for a sweet-tart garnish

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, and egg. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Gently mix everything with your hands or a wooden spoon, being careful not to overwork the meat. Shape the mixture into bite-sized balls and set them aside on a plate.

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Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, taking care not to crowd the pan. Cook them on all sides until they’re deeply browned, about 8 to 10 minutes total. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

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Reduce the heat to low. Stir the flour into the remaining drippings in the skillet and cook for about a minute, whisking constantly so it doesn’t burn. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Increase the heat to medium and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, and then return the meatballs to the pan. Let them gently simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes, or until fully cooked.

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These Swedish meatballs are a delicious, comforting meal that fits nearly any occasion—from casual family dinners to cozy nights in with friends. They offer a wonderful balance of creamy richness, subtle spice, and, if you include a dollop of lingonberry jam, a sweet-tart counterpoint that lifts every bite. Feel free to adjust the seasonings for a slightly different flavor profile or swap in turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative. They’re easy, comforting, and perfect for anyone seeking a warm, home-cooked meal that satisfies every craving.

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.