Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of Swedish meatballs. Soft, savory, and simmered in a creamy sauce, these little gems are perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Whether you’re serving them over a mountain of mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even on their own as a party snack, this slow cooker version simplifies the process while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. With a handful of ingredients, including perfectly seasoned ground chuck, you’ll have a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs are more than just a meal; they are a time-saver, a crowd-pleaser, and a comfort food classic. Cooking them in a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop richly without demanding much from you. Simply mix the ingredients, toss them in the pot, and let the magic happen. You’ll be left with tender meatballs enveloped in a lush, creamy sauce that is simply irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not just easy but oh-so-satisfying!

Ingredients

To make these delicious Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chuck
• ½ cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 small pinch of nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 10 ½ ounce can of condensed beef consommé
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 bay leaf

How To Make Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chuck, seasoned dry bread crumbs, milk, nutmeg, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Sear the Meatballs (Optional)

For added flavor, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil or butter until they are golden brown on all sides. This step is optional but adds a nice depth to the overall dish. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and directly add the raw meatballs to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the condensed beef consommé and bring to a simmer. Once the mixture is bubbly, remove it from heat and stir in the heavy cream and bay leaf.

Step 5: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the creamy sauce over them, ensuring they are well-coated. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are cooked through and tender, give them a gentle stir. Remove the bay leaf, then serve the meatballs with your favorite sides. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a simple green salad. Enjoy the compliments!

Expert Tips

• For variety, try adding finely minced onions or garlic to the meat mixture for more depth of flavor.
• Experiment with different spices. A pinch of allspice or cardamom can truly elevate your meatballs.
• To keep the meatballs from sticking together in the slow cooker, make sure to coat them well in the sauce.
• For a lighter version, feel free to substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

Variations and Customizations

• Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the meatball mixture for a fresh twist.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a cornstarch slurry instead of flour.
• For a zesty kick, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard to the sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious these are), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. The flavors will continue to meld, making them even tastier the next day!

FAQ

Can I freeze Swedish meatballs?

Yes, these meatballs freeze beautifully! After cooking, let them cool completely and portion them into freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can make Swedish meatballs on the stovetop. Simply cook the meatballs in a skillet, then prepare the sauce in the same pan. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce until they are cooked through.

What can I serve with Swedish meatballs?

Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles. You can also serve them with rice, on a sub sandwich, or over a bed of sautéed spinach for a lighter option.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can create a slurry using cornstarch and water. Stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and the sauce will thicken nicely. Alternatively, you can let the sauce reduce by cooking it uncovered for the last hour.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs are a wholesome, hearty dish that brings together the unique flavors of Sweden with the convenience of modern cooking. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can impress your family and friends with a meal that feels gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, special gatherings, or whenever you want something comforting and delicious. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this delightful classic. Happy cooking!