Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

These Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic favorite, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With their rich flavor and tender texture, they offer an inviting dish that rivals any restaurant version. Serve them over creamy mashed potatoes, alongside green peas, with a sweet touch of lingonberry jam for an authentic experience. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also ensures everyone at the table leaves satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of beef and spices creates a savory profile that keeps you coming back for more.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile serving options: Pair these meatballs with various sides like mashed potatoes or noodles for different meals.
• Perfect for occasions: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these meatballs fit right in.
• Homemade gravy: The creamy sauce enhances the dish, making it feel special without extra effort.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools for seamless cooking. Having everything ready will make preparation quick and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Whisk
• Kitchen towel
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows enough space to combine ingredients without spilling.
• Frying pan: Ensures even cooking and browning of meatballs.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth gravy by thoroughly mixing ingredients together.

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 brown onion
• 1 large garlic clove
• light oil
• 400g (14 oz) beef mince
• 250g (8 1/2 oz) beef mince
• 100g (3 1/2 oz) panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 5 tbsp milk
• 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• freshly ground black pepper
• light oil
• mashed potatoes, to serve
• green peas, to serve
• lingonberry jam, to serve
• 50g (1 3/4 oz) unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp (heaped) plain flour
• 600ml (2 1/2 cups) fresh chicken or beef stock
• 2 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• freshly ground sea salt and black pepper
• 2 tbsp single or double cream (optional)

How to Make Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Onion and Garlic

To make the meatballs:
1. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic clove.
2. Gently fry them in 1/2 tablespoon of light oil in a small frying pan over medium heat for about 6–8 minutes until they are soft and golden.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the cooked onion and garlic with both types of minced beef.
2. Add the panko breadcrumbs, egg, milk, sea salt, nutmeg, and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Mix everything well with your hands until combined but avoid compacting too tightly.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Using wet hands:
1. Shape the mixture into slightly smaller than average meatballs.
2. You should end up with about 44 meatballs. Set them aside.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

In a large frying pan:
1. Heat enough oil to cover the bottom over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning regularly until golden on each side and just cooked through.
3. Drain cooked meatballs on a kitchen towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

After removing excess oil from the pan:
1. Use a kitchen towel to gather any burnt bits while leaving brown bits for flavor.
2. Add butter to the pan and melt until frothy.
3. Whisk in flour vigorously for about 2 minutes until it turns nutty brown.
4. Gradually whisk in stock until smooth; add Worcestershire sauce and season to taste.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs with Gravy

Return cooked meatballs to the gravy:
1. Stir gently until they’re coated evenly.
2. Heat through for about 5 minutes; stir in cream if desired.
3. Serve alongside mashed potatoes, green peas, and lingonberry jam for a delightful meal experience!

How to Serve Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

These homemade Swedish meatballs are perfect for a cozy dinner. Pair them with delicious sides and garnishes for a complete meal everyone will love.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the rich gravy of the meatballs.

With Green Peas

• Freshly boiled green peas add a pop of color and a sweet, earthy flavor that balances the meal.

With Lingonberry Jam

• A dollop of lingonberry jam brings a sweet and tart contrast, enhancing the flavors of the meatballs and gravy.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve the meatballs over egg noodles for a heartier dish that soaks up all the savory sauce.

In a Meatball Sub

• For a fun twist, place the meatballs in a sub roll, top with gravy, and sprinkle with cheese for an indulgent sandwich.

How to Perfect Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

Creating the perfect Swedish meatballs involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance flavor greatly compared to dried versions.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine ingredients to keep the meatballs tender and light.
• Shape consistently: Make sure all meatballs are similar in size for even cooking throughout.
• Monitor cooking temperature: Frying at medium-high heat ensures they’re golden without burning.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning during cooking to achieve your preferred flavor profile.
• Let them rest: Allow cooked meatballs to sit in the gravy for a few minutes before serving; this helps meld flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

Pairing your Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs with complementary sides can create an unforgettable dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables, roasted until caramelized, adds depth and nutrition to your meal.
2. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
   Tossed in olive oil and sea salt, these sprouts offer a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft meatballs.
3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli provides freshness while contributing vibrant color to your plate.
4. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover gravy on your plate.
5. Cauliflower Mash
   A lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is creamy and flavorful when seasoned well.
6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the meatballs and gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making these Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs can be a breeze if you avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too much pressure on the meat mixture: Overworking the meat can lead to tough meatballs. Mix gently until just combined.
• Skipping the sautéing of onion and garlic: Not cooking these ingredients can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always sauté them until soft and golden.
• Not monitoring the oil temperature: Frying at incorrect temperatures can lead to greasy or burnt meatballs. Ensure the oil is shimmering before adding the meatballs.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can make your dish bland. Always taste your gravy before serving and adjust as needed.
• Rushing the gravy preparation: Cooking the flour for too short a time may not develop its flavor properly. Whisk until it reaches a nutty brown color for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

• Place meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs:

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef in this recipe. It will still be delicious!

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What sides pair well with Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green peas, or even noodles for variety.

Can I add more spices to my meatballs?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your spice mix by adding herbs like parsley or thyme according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for various meal occasions. Customize them with your favorite spices or side dishes, and enjoy the hearty comfort they bring. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs, a delightful twist on a classic dish that promises satisfaction for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Tender beef meatballs are enveloped in a creamy gravy, creating a savory experience that rivals your favorite restaurant. Serve them over fluffy mashed potatoes and pair with vibrant green peas and a touch of sweet lingonberry jam for an authentic taste that will leave everyone wanting more. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels, ensuring that every bite delivers rich flavor and warmth.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 brown onion
• 1 large garlic clove
• light oil
• 400g (14 oz) beef mince
• 250g (8 1/2 oz) beef mince
• 100g (3 1/2 oz) panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 5 tbsp milk
• 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• freshly ground black pepper
• mashed potatoes, to serve
• green peas, to serve
• lingonberry jam, to serve
• 50g (1 3/4 oz) unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp (heaped) plain flour
• 600ml (2 1/2 cups) fresh chicken or beef stock
• 2 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

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Instructions

1. Sauté finely chopped onion and garlic in light oil until golden.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked onion and garlic with ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, nutmeg, and pepper until just combined.
3. Shape into meatballs using wet hands.
4. Fry meatballs in hot oil until golden and cooked through; drain on towels.
5. For the gravy, whisk melted butter with flour until browned, then gradually add stock and Worcestershire sauce; season to taste.
6. Return meatballs to the gravy and heat through before serving with mashed potatoes, peas, and jam.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Swedish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 75mg