Craving a heartwarming, delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for classic Swedish meatballs and egg noodles! This dish is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you're looking for quick dinner ideas or want to impress your family with a delicious dish, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready to experience the joy of simple, healthy meals elevated to perfection!
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb 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 salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for added depth)
For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
Making the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Set aside.
Preparing the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar (if using). Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking the Noodles and Combining:
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Return the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the sauce and meatballs. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or dill, if desired. This easy recipe pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the meatball mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sauce for a little kick.
- Make it ahead: The meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce can also be made ahead and reheated.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef and pork with a vegetarian meat substitute.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This recipe for Swedish meatballs and egg noodles is a surefire way to enjoy a comforting and delicious meal. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that are both satisfying and flavorful, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this taste of home-cooked goodness!