Swedish Meat Balls(Slow Cooker)
Savory Swedish meatballs slow-cooked to perfection, with warm spices and rich broth, ideal for comforting family dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak bread crumbs in milk for 5 minutes.
- Combine the soaked bread crumbs with ground chuck, beaten eggs, chopped onion, salt, allspice, and nutmeg.
- Shape the mixture into balls about an inch in diameter.
- Heat shortening in a skillet and brown the meatballs on all sides.
- Place the browned meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Add beef broth, dill weed, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cakes. For a creamier sauce, mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving. Remember to brown the meatballs thoroughly for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Swedish meatballs over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. They pair beautifully with a side of lingonberry sauce and steamed vegetables for a complete dinner. For a twist, try them with a side of rice or in a sub roll for a delicious meatball sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Swedish meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep them moist. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, checking regularly to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Meat Balls(Slow Cooker) contains roughly 233 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding extra time to the slow cooker.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground chuck. You can also mix in some ground pork for added flavor. Just ensure the meat is well-seasoned to maintain the dish's authentic taste.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. Alternatively, remove the meatballs once cooked, and simmer the sauce on the stovetop to reduce it.
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).