Swedish Meatballs (Homemade Ikea Meatballs)

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Swedish meatballs, those delightful morsels of savory joy, have captured the hearts and appetites of food lovers around the globe.

Inspired by the iconic Ikea dish that many have come to adore, today I present to you a homemade version that is not only easy to recreate but also bursting with authentic flavor.

Imagine tender, juicy meatballs smothered in a creamy gravy, served alongside buttery mashed potatoes or lingonberry sauce.

Ready to take your taste buds on a Scandinavian adventure? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your craving for something delicious.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something undeniably homey about Swedish meatballs.

They’re comforting, flavorful, and, best of all, they’re relatively simple to make.

This recipe leads you through creating those iconic meatballs with a blend of ground beef and turkey, combined with warm spices that elevate the dish to new heights.

The use of fresh ingredients, combined with a quick cooking method, ensures you’ll have a dish worthy of being the centerpiece of any meal.

Plus, they freeze wonderfully, making them a great option for meal prep.

Whether you serve them during the colder months or on a cozy family night, these meatballs are sure to please.

Ingredients

To make these delicious meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds (680 g) 80% lean ground beef or a mix of ground beef and ground turkey
• ½ cup dried breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ½ medium yellow onion (grated or very finely diced)
• 1 large egg
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (not extra virgin)

How To Make Swedish Meatballs (Homemade Ikea Meatballs)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients.

Grate the yellow onion until you have a fine texture that will easily blend into the meat mixture.

You can use a box grater or a food processor for this step.

Step 2: Mix the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (and ground beef if using), grated onion, dried breadcrumbs, egg, ground allspice, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and salt and pepper.

Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until everything is well incorporated but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into meatballs.

Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

You can use a tablespoon to scoop out the mixture for uniformity.

Place the formed meatballs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to crowd the pan.

Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Step 5: Make the Gravy (Optional)

For that true Ikea experience, prepare a creamy gravy.

In the same skillet where you cooked the meatballs, remove excess oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan.

Sprinkle in some flour (about 2 tablespoons).

Whisk for about 1 minute until it’s golden.

Gradually add in 2 cups of beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

Season with salt and pepper.

Let it simmer until the gravy thickens.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Place the meatballs on a serving platter, drizzle with the gravy, and serve with creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite sides.

A dollop of lingonberry sauce adds a sweet tang that perfectly complements the savory meatballs.

Expert Tips

• To keep the meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
• If the mixture is too wet, add a touch more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
• To ensure uniform cooking, try to make the meatballs the same size.
• You can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them before cooking. Just thaw and cook when you’re ready to enjoy them!

Variations and Customizations

• For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and turkey.
• Try adding fresh chopped parsley or dill for extra flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• For a richer flavor, consider sautéing the onions in a bit of butter before adding them to the meat mixture.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze them; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or stovetop until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I make Swedish meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and form the meatballs ahead of time.

Store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking.

Alternatively, cook them fully and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.

What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?

Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and a side of steamed vegetables.

You can also serve them over egg noodles or even in a sub sandwich for a hearty meal.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the meatballs on a lined baking tray, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer.

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).

If you don’t have a thermometer, cut one open to check that it is no longer pink inside.

Conclusion

Now that you have this fantastic recipe for homemade Swedish meatballs, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! These meatballs are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, bringing a taste of Sweden to your table.

Whether you’re sharing them with family, friends, or savoring them solo, there’s no denying the joy that comes from a plate of warm, hearty meatballs.

So gather your ingredients, follow this guide, and create a dish that is not just food, but an experience.

Enjoy!