Creamy Swedish Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes

Suggested Meal Time: Lunch or Dinner
Estimated Calories: ~650–720 kcal per serving

Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

For the Meatballs

• 500 g ground beef (or beef–pork mix)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 3 tbsp milk

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp nutmeg (optional but authentic)

• ½ tsp allspice (optional)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Gravy

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups beef broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Parsley for garnish

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped

• 3 tbsp butter

• ½ cup warm milk or cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until soft.

2. Drain and mash while hot.

3. Add butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper.

4. Mix until smooth and creamy.

5. Keep warm.

2. Make the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk and let them soak for 1 minute.

2. Add ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, allspice, and parsley.

3. Gently combine until just mixed (don’t overmix).

4. Shape into small meatballs, about 3–4 cm wide.

3. Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat butter/oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides (about 8–10 minutes).

3. Transfer meatballs to a plate while making the sauce.

4. Make the Creamy Gravy

1. In the same skillet, melt butter.

2. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.

3. Slowly pour in beef broth while whisking.

4. Add heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.

5. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

6. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Add meatballs back into the pan and simmer for another 5 minutes.

5. Assemble and Serve

1. Scoop mashed potatoes onto a plate.

2. Add meatballs on the side.

3. Spoon plenty of creamy gravy over the meatballs.

4. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Serving Notes

• Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

• Great with lingonberry jam for the traditional Swedish combo.

Who Will Benefit from This Dish

• Anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals.

• People wanting high-protein, balanced dinner options.

• Perfect for families, meal prep, and cozy weather days.

Energy-Saving Tips

• Boil potatoes with the lid on to reduce cooking time.

• Use residual heat of the pan to finish warming the gravy.

• Air-fry the meatballs for a quicker, energy-efficient method.