Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

These Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings. With their tender texture and rich gravy, they’re bound to impress family and friends alike. Serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes, vibrant green peas, and a dollop of sweet lingonberry jam for a complete meal that will make you feel right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners.
• Flavorful Gravy: The homemade gravy elevates these meatballs, adding depth and richness to each bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them with mashed potatoes, rice, or even in a sandwich for a delicious twist.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These meatballs are ideal for gatherings and family dinners, ensuring everyone will leave satisfied.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish brings warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of dining at your favorite restaurant.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Small frying pan
• Whisk
• Kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining the meatball ingredients without spilling.
• Frying pan: Used to cook the meatballs evenly while providing the perfect surface for browning.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth gravy by blending the flour and stock seamlessly.

Ingredients

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, to serve
• green peas, to serve
• lingonberry jam, to serve

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: Cook the Onion and Garlic

To make the meatballs, peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Gently fry them in 1/2 tbsp of oil in a small frying pan over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes until soft and golden.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Place the cooked onion and garlic in a large bowl. Add both types of beef mince, panko breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, nutmeg, and a generous amount of black pepper. Mix everything well using your hands. Be careful not to over-scrunch the mixture as this can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Using wet hands to prevent sticking, shape the mixture into slightly smaller than average meatballs. You should get around 44 meatballs. Set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Fry the Meatballs

Heat enough oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning regularly so they become golden on all sides and are just cooked through. Drain them on kitchen towels after frying.

Step 5: Prepare for Gravy

Pour excess oil from the pan. Use another piece of kitchen towel to wipe away any burnt bits—these brown bits will enhance your gravy’s flavor.

Step 6: Make the Gravy

Return the pan to heat and melt butter until frothy. Add flour and whisk vigorously for about two minutes until it’s nutty brown. Gradually whisk in stock until smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce and season to taste before returning meatballs into the sauce. Heat through for about five minutes. Stir in cream if desired and adjust consistency with additional liquid if necessary.

Serve your Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs hot with mashed potatoes, boiled peas, and a good dollop of lingonberry jam! Enjoy!

How to Serve Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

Serving Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs is all about enhancing their rich flavor and creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Classic Pairings

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes are an ideal companion, soaking up the delicious gravy.
• Green Peas: A side of vibrant green peas adds a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich meatballs.

Unique Twists

• Lingonberry Jam: This sweet-tart jam complements the savory meatballs perfectly, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
• Pickled Cucumbers: Adding tangy pickled cucumbers brings brightness and crunch to your plate.

Complete Meal Ideas

• Swedish Salad: A light salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition to your meal while maintaining simplicity.

How to Perfect Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

To ensure your Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onion and garlic enhance the flavor of your meatballs significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix gently to keep the meatballs tender instead of dense.
• Check Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. This helps achieve a golden-brown crust without absorbing too much grease.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your gravy before serving. You might want to adjust salt or pepper for the best flavor.
• Let Them Rest: Allow meatballs to rest in the gravy for a few minutes before serving; this helps them absorb more flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw balances the richness of the meatballs while adding a refreshing texture.
2. Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy on your plate.
3. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty addition that complements the dish beautifully.
4. Buttered Noodles: Simple buttered noodles make for an easy side dish that pairs well without overpowering other flavors.
5. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add both color and nutrients, making them an excellent choice alongside meatballs.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed with vinegar offers a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meat: Overmixing will make your meatballs tough. Combine ingredients gently until just mixed.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meatballs can lead to bland flavors. Always fry them until golden for a rich taste.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your egg and milk are at room temperature before mixing.
• Neglecting seasoning: Underseasoning can leave your dish flat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Not letting the sauce thicken properly: Rushing the gravy can result in a thin sauce. Allow it to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Meatballs will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

• Place cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in intervals of 1 minute on medium power, checking often for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of stock or water to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will still yield delicious results while being lower in fat.

Are Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

How do I customize Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs?

You can add herbs like parsley or thyme, or mix in grated cheese for added flavor. Experiment with spices too!

What should I serve with Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green peas, and lingonberry jam for a traditional touch.

How long does it take to prepare Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs?

The total time is about 1 hour, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust flavors and sides based on your preferences, making this dish perfect for any occasion. Try making it today and enjoy the delightful blend of savory meat and creamy gravy!

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: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the heartwarming comfort of Better Than IKEA Swedish Meatballs, a delightful twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. These tender, beefy meatballs are enveloped in a rich, homemade gravy that elevates every bite. Serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant green peas for a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. The added zing of sweet lingonberry jam creates a perfect balance, making this dish not just a meal but an experience.

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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
• freshly ground sea salt and black pepper
• 2 tbsp single or double cream (optional)

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Instructions

1. Sauté finely chopped onion and garlic in oil until golden.
2. Combine cooked onion and garlic with both types of beef mince, panko breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, nutmeg, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently.
3. Shape into meatballs and fry in heated oil until golden brown.
4. Prepare the gravy by whisking flour into melted butter, then adding stock and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Return meatballs to the gravy and simmer until heated through.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 meatballs (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg