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Simple Swedish Meatballs with Cream Sauce for Family Dinner

This easy Swedish meatballs recipe delivers tender, flavorful meatballs made from scratch, simmered in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it combines simple pantry ingredients into a classic European dish that's approachable for beginner cooks.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 50 g
  • 1/4 cup milk 60 ml
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 lb ground beef 450 g
  • 1/2 lb ground pork 225 g
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp ground allspice
  • 2 tbsp butter 28 g
  • 2 tbsp olive oil 30 ml
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour 16 g
  • 2 cups beef broth 475 ml
  • 1 cup heavy cream 240 ml
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes until soft.
  • In a large bowl, combine the soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and allspice. Mix gently until just combined.
  • Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
  • Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove meatballs and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, sprinkle the flour over the fat and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Gradually whisk in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer.
  • Stir in heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  • Return the meatballs to the skillet and gently coat them in the sauce. Cook together for another 5 minutes to combine flavors.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.