Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs: A Family Favorite

Welcome to the heartwarming world of Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs, where every bite is a comforting hug from the past. These tender, flavorful meatballs are not just a meal; they’re a family tradition that brings everyone together, especially when served over creamy mashed potatoes. Get ready to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food at Its Best: Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs offer a delightful blend of flavors that warm the soul.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner, these meatballs fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Leftover Friendly: These meatballs taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component contributes to the comforting taste, rich texture, and inviting aroma of the dish.

• Ground Beef: This provides the hearty base for the meatballs, ensuring they stay juicy and flavorful.
• Ground Pork: The addition of pork adds richness and a hint of sweetness to the meat mixture.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together while keeping them tender and moist.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion brings a savory depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste.
• Egg: This acts as a binding agent, helping the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the meat.
• Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg gives a warm aromatic flavor that is characteristic of traditional Swedish meatballs.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the overall taste of the meatballs.
• Beef Broth: Used in the sauce, it adds a savory depth that ties the dish together beautifully.
• Heavy Cream: This creates a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the meatballs wonderfully.

Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Variations for Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs

Don’t hesitate to make Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs your own! This recipe is easily adaptable based on your ingredients, dietary needs, or personal taste preferences.

• Turkey or Chicken: Swap the beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Herbs and Spices: Try adding fresh parsley, dill, or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based meat alternatives combined with a veggie broth for a meatless version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.

How to Make Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef and ground pork. Add breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Finally, crack in the egg and mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy transfer.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, and then remove them from the skillet.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add beef broth and scrape up the browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the meatballs to the skillet, gently coating them in the creamy sauce. Let them simmer together for an additional 10 minutes to absorb the flavors, then serve hot over creamy mashed potatoes.

Pro Tips for Making Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the meat mixture just until combined for tender meatballs.
• Chill Before Cooking: Chilling the formed meatballs for 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices elevate the dish significantly.
• Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to add more cream for a richer sauce or more broth for a lighter consistency.
• Double the Recipe: Make a larger batch to enjoy leftovers or freeze for later.

How to Serve Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs

Garnishes

For a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley or dill over the meatballs before serving. A dollop of sour cream can also enhance the creamy texture and add a tangy flavor.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, but also consider serving them with egg noodles, rice, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs on a large platter with toothpicks for a fun appetizer at parties. Alternatively, layer them in a casserole dish with mashed potatoes and sauce for an impressive family-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to keep them moist.

FAQs

Can I use just ground beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the combination of beef and pork adds depth, you can use only ground beef if that is your preference.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply let it simmer longer to reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) to achieve the desired consistency.

Are these meatballs suitable for freezing?

Yes! Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or quick dinners later on.

What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?

They pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Definitely! Feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your taste preference. Experimenting is part of the fun!

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the inside scoop on Grandma Prudy’s Swedish Meatballs, it’s time to gather your ingredients and create this family favorite. The warmth and comfort of this dish will surely bring a smile to your face and those you share it with. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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