Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

Swedish meatballs are a comforting classic known for their tender texture and rich cream sauce. This slow cooker version makes it easy to enjoy the flavors with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Ingredients

• Frozen or homemade meatballs, about 24 pieces
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the meatballs in the slow cooker in a single layer, if possible, to ensure even cooking.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the meatballs.
3. Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the meatballs are heated through and tender.
4. Step 4: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the sour cream to create a creamy, rich sauce. Avoid boiling after adding sour cream to prevent curdling.
5. Step 5: Serve the Swedish meatballs hot over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a classic meal.

Tips & Variations

• For a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce before serving.
• Use ground beef and pork blend for homemade meatballs to replicate traditional flavor.
• Add chopped fresh parsley or dill as a garnish for brightness and color.
• Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or chicken soup for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs directly in the slow cooker?

Yes, frozen meatballs can be used directly without thawing. Just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are heated through.

Is it possible to make this recipe without cream of mushroom soup?

Absolutely. You can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, and milk or cream seasoned with herbs for a fresher taste.

Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 125 reviews

This Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs recipe features tender, flavorful meatballs simmered slowly in a rich and creamy sauce, making for a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any day of the week.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Swedish

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Cream Sauce

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, salt, black pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small, uniform meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring they are tightly packed to hold together during cooking.
3. Add Meatballs to Slow Cooker: Place the meatballs evenly in the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible to cook evenly.
4. Prepare Cream Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth and flour until smooth to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard.
5. Combine and Cook: Pour the cream sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.
6. Finish Sauce: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream, then cover and cook for the remaining time to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
7. Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve the Swedish meatballs hot, traditionally over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Notes

• You can substitute ground pork with more ground beef if preferred.
• For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• If sauce is too thin at the end, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir into the slow cooker to thicken.
• Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze nicely.

Keywords: Swedish meatballs, slow cooker recipes, creamy meatballs, comfort food, easy dinner