Mother Mac'S "Kottbullar"(Swedish Meatballs)
Savory Swedish meatballs with a hint of allspice, browned onions, and rich natural gravy, perfect for comforting family dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put bread crumbs in a large bowl.
- Cover with hot water and let stand a few minutes.
- Mix in remaining ingredients except onion.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Slice the onion into a little oil in a skillet and brown.
- Remove onion and add meatballs to the skillet to brown.
- Return onion to the skillet with meatballs, add water and whole allspice.
- Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the ground beef with ground pork. If you don't have allspice, a mix of nutmeg and cinnamon can work in a pinch. Ensure the bread crumbs are soft; stale ones can make the meatballs dry. Adding a bit of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the umami taste, reminiscent of dishes like Swedish Meatballs I.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of lingonberry sauce for a traditional touch. They also pair wonderfully with a green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside Cabbage-Sausage-Beef Goulash or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, covering the pan to steam them gently. They can also be reheated in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother Mac'S "Kottbullar"(Swedish Meatballs) contains roughly 631 calories, with 15g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 950mg per serving (41% 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 freeze the meatballs for later?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked meatballs. For uncooked, shape them, place on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked, let them cool completely before freezing. They can be reheated straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can be effective substitutes. You could also use panko for a crunchier texture. If you're avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free bread crumbs or ground nuts, which can also add a unique flavor.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer. They should also be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center. Simmering them in the sauce for 30 minutes helps ensure they are cooked through.
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).