"Very Best" Swedish Meat Balls
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Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the bread slices in milk until soft.
- Crumble the soaked bread into the ground beef and mix well with the beaten egg, salt, pepper, and chopped onion.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Roll the meatballs in flour and then simmer them in chicken broth with beef bouillon cubes and Kitchen Bouquet for an hour or longer.
- Optionally, use an electric frypan set at 200°F for cooking.
- These meatballs freeze well for future use.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating grated Parmesan cheese into the meat mixture. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of soaking bread. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and don't hesitate to experiment with herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Swedish meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside egg noodles for a hearty meal. A side of lingonberry sauce adds a delightful sweetness that complements the savory flavors. These meatballs also pair beautifully with an Oriental Chicken And Fruit Salad for a colorful and well-rounded dinner.
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 bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a simmering broth or microwave until heated through, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Very Best" Swedish Meat Balls contains roughly 1063 calories, with 22g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2704mg per serving (118% 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 use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef in this recipe. However, keep in mind that turkey may result in slightly drier meatballs, so consider adding a bit more milk or olive oil to maintain moisture.
How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Swedish meatballs, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that the chicken broth and any added seasonings are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?
Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with lingonberries and creamy mashed potatoes. You can also pair them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option. For a complete dinner, consider browsing more chicken recipes for complementary sides.
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).