Grandma Gwen'S Swedish Meatballs
Juicy Swedish meatballs with a tender, flavorful mixture of beef and pork, coated lightly in flour and fried to perfection—ideal for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak bread crumbs in half the milk for 1/2 hour.
- Mix ground beef, ground pork, sautéed onion, egg, salt, pepper, and mustard in a bowl.
- Add remaining milk and soaked bread crumbs to the mixture and combine well.
- Oil your fingers and shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- Roll the meatballs in flour or sprinkle a little flour on them.
- Fry the meatballs lightly at medium heat until cooked through and lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, pre-made bread crumbs or even crushed crackers can work as a substitute. For a gluten-free alternative, use almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs instead of traditional flour for rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Swedish meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside egg noodles for a comforting meal. They also pair beautifully with a side of lingonberry sauce for a traditional touch. For a complete dinner, consider serving with steamed green vegetables or a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pan-fry them on medium heat until warmed through or microwave them for quick reheating. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Gwen'S Swedish Meatballs contains roughly 904 calories, with 26g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 956mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
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 Swedish meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape the meatballs ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also cook them and freeze for later use, making it easy to enjoy this dish anytime.
What's the best way to adjust the seasoning?
Taste the mixture before shaping the meatballs. If you prefer more flavor, consider adding more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder. Keep in mind, though, that the meatballs will be cooked, which can slightly mellow the seasonings.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef and pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative that can be used in place of the beef and pork. While the texture might vary slightly, you can enhance the flavor by adding spices or herbs to the mixture.
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).