Swedish Meatballs with Cream Sauce and Wine Pairing

Swedish meatballs, or "köttbullar," are a classic dish known for their comforting, savory flavors. This recipe not only guides you through creating delicious homemade meatballs but also includes a carefully selected wine pairing to elevate your dining experience.

Whether you're preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this combination of rich meatballs, creamy sauce, and a perfectly matched wine is sure to delight.

Best Recipe for Swedish Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 500g ground beef
• 250g ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 100ml milk
• 50g breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
• 1 tbsp butter (for frying)

For the Cream Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 400ml beef broth
• 200ml heavy cream
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Wine Pairing Suggestion:

• A bottle of Pinot Noir or a lightly oaked Chardonnay (details below)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

   • In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with milk and let it soak for a few minutes.
     
     
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork with the soaked breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, allspice, and white pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
     
     
   • Shape the mixture into small, even-sized meatballs (about the size of a walnut).
     
     

2. Cook the Meatballs:

   • Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
     
     
   • Fry the meatballs in batches, turning them frequently to brown them evenly on all sides. Once browned, remove the meatballs and set them aside.
     
     

3. Make the Cream Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
     
     
   • Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
     
     
   • Gradually add the beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
     
     
   • Stir in the heavy cream and soy sauce. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
     
     
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
     
     

4. Combine:

   • Add the cooked meatballs back into the skillet with the sauce.
     
     
   • Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to soak up some of the sauce and heat through.
     
     

5. Serve:

   • Serve the Swedish meatballs hot, traditionally with mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and pickled cucumbers.

Wine Pairing:

To complement the rich flavors of the meatballs and the creamy sauce, a Pinot Noir is an excellent choice. This wine's bright acidity and red fruit notes cut through the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances every bite.

Alternatively, a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully, with its creamy texture and subtle oak flavors mirroring the cream sauce, creating a harmonious balance. Choose your preferred wine, pour a glass, and enjoy a truly satisfying meal.