ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients and Preparations
To make the best slow cooker creamy Swedish meatballs, you’ll need a combination of simple, flavorful ingredients. Start with a pound of ground beef or a mix of beef and pork for more depth in flavor. Add finely chopped onions and garlic to the meat mixture for an aromatic base. Season with salt, pepper, and allspice, which gives Swedish meatballs their distinctive taste.
In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk to create a moist binder for your meatballs. This step is crucial to ensure they remain tender and juicy. Once the breadcrumb mixture is ready, mix it into the meat along with an egg, which acts as a binding agent. Form small, evenly-sized meatballs and set them aside.
Cooking with the Slow Cooker
The beauty of using a slow cooker for this dish lies in its ability to infuse flavors over time, resulting in a succulent and rich meal. Begin by browning the meatballs in a skillet to give them a nice crust. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps them hold their shape during slow cooking.
Once browned, transfer the meatballs to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, prepare a roux with butter and flour, which will serve as the base for the creamy sauce. Gradually whisk in beef broth to create a smooth consistency. Add a dollop of sour cream and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a tangy, savory kick. Pour this sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated.
Slow Cooking Process
Set your slow cooker to low and let the meatballs simmer for 4 to 6 hours. This low and slow method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender meatballs that absorb the creamy sauce. If you’re short on time, you can opt for a high setting, reducing the cooking time to 2 to 3 hours, but the flavors might not be as developed.
While the meatballs cook, the sauce thickens and intensifies in flavor. If you find the sauce too thick towards the end of cooking, add a splash of milk or cream to achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a bit of cornstarch with water and adding it to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Once the slow cooker creamy Swedish meatballs are ready, it’s time to serve them in all their glory. These meatballs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Traditionally, they are served over egg noodles, which soak up the creamy sauce perfectly. However, feel free to get creative by serving them over mashed potatoes, rice, or even alongside roasted vegetables for a lighter option.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. If you want to add a touch of Swedish authenticity, offer lingonberry jam on the side. Its tart sweetness complements the creamy, savory meatballs beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
ADVERTISEMENT
