Classic Frugal Swedish Meatballs

These budget-friendly Swedish meatballs are the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in!

Ingredients:

Meatballs:

500 g ground beef (or substitute with half pork for variety)

100 g breadcrumbs (or use stale bread soaked in milk)

1 small onion, finely diced

1 egg

125 ml milk or water

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1/2 tsp allspice (optional)

Cream Sauce:

2 tbsp butter (or margarine)

2 tbsp flour

500 ml broth (chicken or beef)

100 ml milk (or replace with a splash of sour cream)

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Serving:

Boiled potatoes or pasta

Lingonberry jam (or cranberry sauce as a cheaper alternative)

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and allspice if using. Mix well until the ingredients bind together.

Shape the mixture into small meatballs (about the size of a walnut).

Heat a frying pan over medium heat and brown the meatballs in batches, turning them to ensure even cooking. Set aside.

In the same pan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Slowly add the broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer until thickened.

Stir in the milk or sour cream and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Add the meatballs back to the pan and coat them with the sauce. Let them simmer for another 5 minutes.

Serve with boiled potatoes or pasta, and if desired, a spoonful of lingonberry or cranberry sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4