Betty Gilchrist'S Swedish Meatballs

Prep: 30 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Swedish

Juicy Swedish-inspired meatballs combining beef and pork, flavored with onion, toast, and cornflakes, simmered in tomato soup for a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lb. ground beef
  • 2 lb. ground pork
  • 3 1/2 c. milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 or 3 pieces toast, crumbled
  • 1 grated onion
  • 2 c. cornflakes
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 2 tsp. pepper

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together thoroughly.
  2. Shape the mixture into meatballs.
  3. Brown the meatballs in a skillet until evenly cooked.
  4. Simmer the browned meatballs in diluted tomato soup until fully done.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. If you're out of milk, substitute with a plant-based milk or broth. To enhance flavor, add minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Ensure the meatballs are well-formed for even cooking, and try using gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Swedish meatballs over a bed of egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Pair with a side of lingonberry sauce for a traditional touch. For a balanced plate, consider a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. This dish also pairs beautifully with Grandma's Swedish Meatballs for a festive gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or gently simmer in tomato soup for added flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Betty Gilchrist'S Swedish Meatballs contains roughly 732 calories, with 32g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (154% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

732 kcal 37% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 32.4g 65% DV
Total Fat 26.3g 34% DV
Carbs 95.4g 35% DV
Fiber 9.6g 34% DV
Sugar 30.9g 62% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 401mg 17% DV
Potassium 1218mg 26% DV
Cholesterol 107.7mg 36% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 141.2mcg 16% DV
Vitamin C 138.9mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 1.6mcg 8% DV
Calcium 353mg 27% DV
Iron 6.3mg 35% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for a day or two before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them raw, then cook straight from the freezer, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I use instead of cornflakes?

If you don’t have cornflakes, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free cereal or almond flour to bind the meat mixture.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Alternatively, they should be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear when cut.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

Beef recipes → Pork recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →