Introduction
Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs is a beloved family recipe that has been passed down through generations. These tender meatballs are simmered in a rich and savory gravy, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices gives these meatballs a unique flavor profile that is sure to please everyone at the table.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be prepared in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together slowly over several hours. This method of cooking ensures that the meatballs are incredibly tender and flavorful, making them a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve them over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or on their own, Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your household.
In this article, we will walk you through the ingredients you will need, the steps to prepare these delicious meatballs, some variations you can try, helpful tips for perfecting the dish, and finally, some frequently asked questions to address any queries you may have. Let’s get started on making Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs!
Ingredients
To make Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon allspice
Steps
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice.
2. Mix the ingredients together until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, using about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture for each meatball.
4. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides until cooked through. You may need to do this in batches.
5. Transfer the browned meatballs to a slow cooker.
6. In the same skillet, prepare the gravy by combining beef broth, flour, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until the gravy thickens, then pour it over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
7. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the meatballs are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Variations
There are several ways you can customize Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs to suit your tastes:
– Add a splash of cream to the gravy for a richer sauce.
– Mix in some lingonberry jam for a sweet and tangy twist.
– Substitute ground turkey for the ground beef for a lighter version of the dish.
– Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or ginger, for a unique flavor profile.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you perfect Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs:
– Use a mix of ground beef and pork for the best flavor and texture.
– Be gentle when shaping the meatballs to prevent them from becoming tough.
– Browning the meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker adds extra flavor to the dish.
– Adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs are a classic dish that never fails to impress. With their tender texture, flavorful gravy, and comforting aroma, these meatballs are a true taste of home. Whether you enjoy them as a weeknight meal or as part of a special occasion, they are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the meatballs once they have been cooked. Simply let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of ground meat, such as chicken, turkey, or even lamb, to create variations of this dish.
Q: Can I prepare Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and gravy ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them in the slow cooker. This can be a great time-saving option for busy days.
Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs
Tender meatballs simmered in a rich and savory gravy, Grandma’s Slow-Cooked Swedish Meatballs are a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Made with a combination of ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices, these meatballs have a unique flavor profile that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice.
-
Mix the ingredients together until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
-
Shape the mixture into meatballs, using about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture for each meatball.
-
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides until cooked through. Do this in batches if needed.
-
Transfer the browned meatballs to a slow cooker.
-
In the same skillet, prepare the gravy by combining beef broth, flour, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until the gravy thickens, then pour it over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
-
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the meatballs are tender and the flavors have melded together.
