Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

These Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With a rich gravy and tender meatballs, this recipe brings comfort food to your table without the need for a trip to the store. Ideal for any occasion, these meatballs can be served with mashed potatoes, peas, and tangy lingonberry jam, making them a standout choice for both everyday meals and special events.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills, making it accessible for everyone.
• Flavorful Gravy: The homemade gravy elevates the meatballs, adding depth and richness that store-bought options can’t match.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair these meatballs with various sides like mashed potatoes or pasta, adapting to your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family dinners or parties, these meatballs are sure to impress guests of all ages.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust seasoning or add your favorite herbs to personalize the flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Small frying pan
• Kitchen towel
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Provides enough space to cook multiple meatballs at once while ensuring even browning.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spilling, making preparation smooth and tidy.
• Whisk: Essential for achieving a smooth gravy; it helps incorporate flour into the butter without lumps.

Ingredients

These easy IKEA-style Swedish Meatballs are really easy to make at home with a traditional gravy, delicious served with mashed potatoes, peas, and Swedish lingonberry jam.

For the Meatballs

• 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

For Serving

• mashed potatoes
• green peas
• lingonberry jam

For the Gravy

• 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 Aromatics

Begin by peeling and finely chopping the brown onion and the garlic clove.

Step 2: Cook Onion and Garlic

Heat 1/2 tablespoon of light oil in a small frying pan over medium heat.
* Gently fry the onion and garlic for about 6-8 minutes until soft and golden.

Step 3: Mix 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 black pepper.
3. Mix well using your hands to ensure everything is combined but do not overwork the mixture.

Step 4: Shape Meatballs

Using wet hands:
– Shape the mixture into slightly smaller than average meatballs. Aim for about 44 meatballs in total.

Step 5: Fry Meatballs

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

Step 6: Make Gravy

Pour excess oil from the pan:
– Use another piece of kitchen towel to remove any burnt bits while retaining brown bits for flavor.
– Return pan to heat; melt butter until frothy.
– Add flour; whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
– Gradually whisk in stock until smooth; then mix in Worcestershire sauce. Season as needed.

Step 7: Coat Meatballs in Gravy

Add fried meatballs back into the gravy:
– Stir gently to coat each meatball well. Heat through for about 5 minutes.

Step 8: Final Touches

If desired:
– Stir in cream along with water or more stock for preferred consistency. Adjust seasonings before serving alongside mashed potatoes, green peas, and lingonberry jam.

Enjoy your homemade Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs!

How to Serve Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

These delightful meatballs are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you want a cozy dinner or a fun lunch, here are some great serving suggestions.

Classic Swedish Style

• Serve with mashed potatoes for a traditional pairing that complements the rich gravy.
• Add green peas on the side for a pop of color and sweetness.

With Lingonberry Jam

• A generous spoonful of lingonberry jam adds a sweet-tart contrast that enhances the meatballs’ flavor.

Meatball Sub Sandwich

• Place meatballs in a sub roll and top with gravy for an easy and satisfying sandwich option.

Meatball Salad Bowl

• Create a salad bowl by adding greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers, topped with sliced meatballs drizzled with gravy.

Pasta Dish

• Serve over cooked pasta, like tagliatelle or spaghetti, for an Italian twist that’s sure to please.

How to Perfect Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

Perfecting your Swedish meatballs is all about technique and ingredient quality. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, spices, and produce enhance flavor and make a noticeable difference.
• Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix gently to keep the meatballs tender instead of tough.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before cooking; adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your palate.
• Cook in batches: Fry meatballs in small batches to ensure even cooking and browning without overcrowding the pan.
• Let them rest: Allow cooked meatballs to rest in the gravy for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

Pairing your Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs with delicious sides can elevate the meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Rich and buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting base for the meatballs.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrients while being easy to prepare.
3. Crispy Garlic Bread – Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up extra gravy.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture that contrasts nicely with the savory meatballs.
5. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a light counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli offers bright color and nutrition alongside your hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overmixing the meat – Mixing too much can lead to tough meatballs. Combine ingredients until just blended for tender results.
• Not using wet hands – Shaping meatballs with dry hands can be challenging. Wet your hands to prevent sticking and make uniform meatballs.
• Skipping the resting period – Allowing the meatballs to rest helps them hold their shape while cooking. Let them sit for about 15 minutes before frying.
• Ignoring flavor adjustments – Seasoning is crucial. Taste the mixture before cooking and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Rushing the cooking process – Cooking on high heat may brown the outside without fully cooking inside. Use medium heat for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the meatballs are cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet with a bit of stock or water, cover, and heat over medium until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs answered.

How do I make Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs gluten-free?

You can replace panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats for a gluten-free option.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, substituting turkey for beef works well and creates a lighter version of these meatballs.

What should I serve with Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs?

They pair excellently with mashed potatoes, peas, or a fresh salad for balance.

How do I ensure my meatballs stay juicy?

Avoid overcooking and ensure you do not pack the mixture too tightly when forming them.

Can I customize the seasoning in Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs are an irresistible dish that brings comfort and flavor to any dinner table. Their versatility allows you to customize seasonings or sides as you wish. Give this recipe a try for a delightful meal that everyone will love!

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: Aileen
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Experience the joy of homemade Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs, a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This delightful recipe features tender beef meatballs coated in a rich, savory gravy that elevates your meal without the need for store-bought options. Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes and tangy lingonberry jam for a classic Scandinavian experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, these meatballs promise to impress with their flavor and simplicity.

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Ingredients

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• 1 brown onion
• 1 large garlic clove
• light oil
• 650g beef mince
• 100g panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 5 tbsp milk
• 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• freshly ground black pepper
• 50g unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp plain flour
• 600ml fresh chicken or beef stock
• 2 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 2 tbsp cream (optional)

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Instructions

1. Finely chop the brown onion and garlic. Sauté in light oil over medium heat until soft and golden.
2. In a large bowl, mix sautéed onion and garlic with beef mince, panko breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, nutmeg, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs and fry in batches until golden brown.
4. For the gravy, melt butter in the frying pan, whisk in flour, then gradually add stock and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
5. Coat fried meatballs in gravy and heat through before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Scandinavian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs (210g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 80mg