Skandinavian Meatballs

You know, there’s something about cooking in my kitchen that makes me feel all cozy inside. Today, we’re diving fork-first into a delightful dish — Skandinavian Meatballs. Yes, “Skandinavian,” because why not add a little flair to this classic? This recipe is the heartwarming, belly-filling kind of goodness that instantly transports you to the Nordic lands, or at least to my kitchen table filled with my noisy little family. These babies are all about that rich, savory sauce hug and those melt-in-your-mouth meatballs that make you wanna do a little happy dance in your seat. Give it a whirl, you might just find a new family tradition.
I remember the first time I made these meatballs, the kitchen looked like a meat tornado had just torn through — total disaster zone, but hey, that’s how you know it’s gonna be good, right? My husband was skeptical (he’s more of a burger kind of guy) until he took one bite, eyes widened, and suddenly, he’s on his fifth meatball, muttering about how these must have magical properties. The kids? They doused theirs in ketchup, but it’s okay — no judgment here in my kitchen. Now, we can’t have a family gathering without these making a grand appearance!
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Why You’ll Love This Skandinavian Meatballs
– Because they’re like a hug from the inside. Seriously, who doesn’t need more excuses to eat meatballs dripping with deliciousness?
– Fool-proof dinner that doubles as instant happiness. Ask my dubious husband.
– Even picky eaters will be lured by the siren call of that caramelized aroma.
How to Make It
Alright, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this, shall we? Picture this: you, standing by a big ol’ bowl of ground meat, feeling just a tiny bit like a meatball wizard. Toss in spices like you’re casting a spell or just dumping them in because the measuring spoons have mysteriously vanished again — your call. Mix gently, let those flavors bond like new best friends. Use your hands, yeah? None of that dainty business.
Roll ’em into little balls and brown them up in a pan with a sizzle that’ll make you do a little stove-top jig. De-glaze that loveliness with broth and spices, while being super tempted to taste it directly out of the pot. (Disclaimer: it’s hot, so maybe wait a sec). Simmer them all in, and you know what? You just created something magical.
Ingredient Notes
– Ground Beef: This is the meaty foundation — like the sandy brick in my gingerbread building adventures.
– Breadcrumbs: Makes everything stick together like friendships over late-night karaoke.
– Broth: Adds depth. Or just more mess everywhere if the carton falls.
Recipe Steps
1. Mix ground meat, spices, and breadcrumbs in a bowl.
2. Roll mixture into small balls.
3. Brown meatballs in a pan until golden.
4. Add broth to de-glaze pan, creating a sauce.
5. Simmer meatballs in the sauce to fully cook.
What to Serve It With
Serve these beauties with a side of mashed potatoes or just a fluffy slice of bread to soak up all that awesome sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, maybe even some sautéed greens.
Tips & Mistakes
Forgetting to brown the meatballs? Yeah, totally done that. It’s not the end of the world, but it’s worth doing if you can manage it.
Storage Tips
Good luck having leftovers — seriously. If you manage to save some, pop them into a container and shove ‘em in the fridge. They’ll be eyeing you down for tomorrow’s lunch. And if you sneak a cold meatball as a midnight snack? Absolutely zero shame here.
Variations and Substitutions
Experiment with turkey if you’re feeling extra healthy, or go wild with some pork. I once used crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs when the pantry was bare — it was a wild ride but totally worked. Skipping the Worcestershire sauce? Not fatal, but put it on your list for next time.
Frequently Asked Questions

Skandinavian Meatballs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs preferably fresh
- 0.75 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tbsp butter for frying
- 2 tbsp flour for gravy
- 2 cup beef broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef, egg, salt, and pepper to the soaked breadcrumbs and mix gently until combined.
- Form mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides, about 7-8 minutes.
- Remove meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, add flour and whisk for 2 minutes to make a roux.
- Slowly whisk in beef broth, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens.
- Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer in gravy for 10 minutes until cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Featured Comments
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“New favorite here — family favorite. rich was spot on.”