Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Swedish Meatball and Egg Noodle recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget takeout – homemade is always better, and this recipe proves it. Get ready to experience the ultimate taste of Scandinavia in your own kitchen! This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes, all made with homemade cooking techniques.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
For the Noodles:
- 1 pound egg noodles
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Make the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Prepare the Sauce:
- While the meatballs are baking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Cook the Noodles:
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain well.
Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and gently stir to coat.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the saucepan and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for the Best Swedish Meatballs:
- Don't overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
- Use a good quality ground meat: The flavor of your meatballs will be directly impacted by the quality of the meat you use.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: This ensures even cooking and browning of the meatballs. Bake in batches if necessary.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your preference.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms into the meatball mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Use different noodles: Try substituting the egg noodles with other types of pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti.
- Make it creamy: Add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche to each serving for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This Swedish Meatball and Egg Noodle recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It’s a great example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy!