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Swedish Meatballs

A close-up of traditional Swedish meatballs on a plate with small flags of Sweden on them

These Swedish Meatballs are a family classic, perfect for any holiday gathering. They’re small, packed with flavor, and easy to make, creating an ideal appetizer that everyone loves.

This version skips the creamy sauce, making these meatballs the perfect party finger food. Serve them warm with some sour cream and lingonberry sauce for a traditional touch.

Time
Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 30 mins Rest Time: 2 mins Total Time: 52 mins
Servings 24
Description

These Swedish Meatballs are small, flavorful bites traditionally served without sauce, ideal for holiday gatherings. Try them with a side of lingonberry sauce for a true Swedish experience.

Ingredients
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp minced onion
  • ⅓ cup fine dry bread crumbs
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup half-and-half
  • ¾ lb ground beef
  • ¼ lb ground pork
  • 2 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp ground white pepper
  • ⅓ tsp white sugar
  • 3 tbsp butter (for frying)
Instructions
  1. Melt 1 tbsp butter in a frying pan over low heat. Cook the minced onion until lightly browned, about 5-8 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs, water, and half-and-half. Let the mixture stand for 2 minutes.
  3. Add the browned onions, ground beef, ground pork, salt, white pepper, and sugar to the bowl with the bread crumb mixture. Mix until fully combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, roughly 48 in total.
  5. In a skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them slowly, shaking the pan occasionally to ensure even cooking. Cook for about 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
Nutrition Facts

Servings 24


Amount Per Serving
Calories 69kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 6g10%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Cholesterol 19mg7%
Sodium 231mg10%
Potassium 52mg2%
Total Carbohydrate 1g1%
Protein 4g8%

Calcium 11 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For best results, keep meatballs warm in a chafing dish if serving at a gathering.

Keywords: Swedish appetizer, holiday meatballs, Scandinavian recipes, lingonberry meatballs