If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than slow cooker Swedish meatballs. These little morsels pack a punch of flavor and are the star of many family dinners.
I can still remember the first time I tasted them. The blend of tender meat, savory sauce, and a hint of tang showcased everything wonderful about home cooking. Imagine coming home after a long day to a house filled with the fragrant aroma of these delicacies. Intrigued? Well, let me take you through an unforgettable journey of a simple yet satisfying recipe sure to please!
What are Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs?
Slow cooker Swedish meatballs are a delightful dish, typically consisting of ground meat mixed with breadcrumbs and spices. They are cooked low and slow in a luscious sauce, often made with cream and broth. It’s like a cozy Scandinavian hug on a chilly day.
While they originate from Sweden, many people across the globe have embraced this comfort food, making it their own. The best part? You can toss everything together in a slow cooker, let it work its magic, and come back to a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs Recipe
There are a multitude of reasons this recipe steals the show at dinner time. First, it’s incredibly easy. You simply combine ingredients, set your slow cooker, and forget about it! That means more time for you to kick up your feet with a good book or catch up on your favorite show.
Second, the flavor is off the charts. The combination of beef stock, cream of mushroom soup, and tangy A1 sauce creates a rich and flavorful gravy that coats each meatball perfectly. Trust me, you’ll be licking your plate clean!
Lastly, versatility is the name of the game. Enjoy these meatballs over noodles, rice, or on their own. You can even invite friends over for a fun meatball sandwich night! Once you’ve made them, they can easily fit into multiple meals throughout the week.
The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs Recipe
To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2-pound bag of frozen meatballs
- 10 ¾ ounce can of low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet of dehydrated onion soup mix
- 14 ounce can of low-sodium beef stock
- 2 tablespoons of A1 steak sauce
- 16 ounce package of egg noodles
- 1 cup of tangy sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup of freshly chopped parsley
Directions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In your slow cooker, combine the frozen meatballs, cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, beef stock, A1 sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sour cream. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 2: Cook
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Prepare Noodles
About 20 minutes before serving, cook your egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Serve
When the meatballs are done, give them a gentle stir. Serve the meatballs over the noodles with plenty of sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to brighten up the dish.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley adds vibrance and taste. Always go for the fresh over the dried when you can.
- Don’t Skip the Sauce: That creamy sauce is what makes this dish shine. Make sure to have enough for generous plating.
- Customize Your Meatballs: If you want a firmer meatball, you can add breadcrumbs and an egg to the mix before cooking.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to jazz up the flavor with garlic, or a bit of nutmeg for that Swedish kick.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free version, and use non-dairy sauces if required.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have a large batch, consider freezing portions for quick future meals. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly!
Nutrition Information
slow cooker swedish meatballs recipe nutrition facts
Serving Suggestions
Here are some ways to serve this delicious recipe:
- Over Egg Noodles: This is the classic combo. The meatball sauce seeps beautifully into the noodles.
- With Rice: Serve the meatballs on a bed of rice. The grains soak up the sauce wonderfully.
- In a Sub: Make a meatball sub by placing them in a hoagie roll and topping with cheese.
- With Mashed Potatoes: A comforting pairing. The smooth potatoes pair beautifully with the rich sauce.
- Alongside a Salad: A light green salad brings freshness, balancing out the hearty meatballs.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs Recipe?
When cooking, it’s great to know that substitutions are possible:
- Ground Turkey: You can swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute regular egg noodles for gluten-free ones if needed.
- Different Soups: Instead of cream of mushroom, use cream of chicken or a homemade creamy version.
- Vegetable Stock: For a vegetarian take, replace the beef stock with vegetable stock.
- Sour Cream Alternatives: Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream can add creaminess if you’re watching calories or are dairy-free.
Conclusion
Slow cooker Swedish meatballs are a true testament to simple, hearty cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and little prep, you deliver a meal that warms the heart. Whether you enjoy it with noodles, rice, or simply on its own, the flavor is sure to impress.
By diving into this recipe, I hope you feel inspired to whip up a pot and enjoy it with family or friends. Ain’t nothing like gathering around the table to share good food and good conversation. Happy cooking!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs Recipe – Easy Family Meal
Description
When serving slow cooker Swedish meatballs, you’ll want to create a memorable dining experience with some delightful sides. Start with creamy mashed potatoes; their smooth texture and buttery flavor pair perfectly with the savory meatballs, especially when topped with a dollop of rich gravy.
For a different touch, consider rice pilaf, which adds a fragrant, nutty flavor that balances the meatballs' savoriness—sprinkle on some fresh herbs for extra brightness. Simple steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, provide a colorful and nutritious contrast, adding a crisp element to the tender meatballs.
Don’t forget crispy bread rolls; they’re perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce and completing your meal in a delightful way. Finally, a light side salad dressed with vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, helping to balance the richness of the meatballs. With these pairings, your Swedish meatball dinner will be both satisfying and enjoyable!
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
-
In your slow cooker, combine the frozen meatballs, cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, beef stock, A1 sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sour cream. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 2: Cook
-
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours. If you're in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Prepare Noodles
-
About 20 minutes before serving, cook your egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Serve
-
When the meatballs are done, give them a gentle stir. Serve the meatballs over the noodles with plenty of sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to brighten up the dish.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 637kcal
- Calories from Fat 366kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 40.8g63%
- Saturated Fat 15.5g78%
- Trans Fat 0.9g
- Cholesterol 139mg47%
- Sodium 1071mg45%
- Total Carbohydrate 41g14%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley adds vibrance and taste. Always go for the fresh over the dried when you can.
- Don’t Skip the Sauce: That creamy sauce is what makes this dish shine. Make sure to have enough for generous plating.
- Customize Your Meatballs: If you want a firmer meatball, you can add breadcrumbs and an egg to the mix before cooking.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to jazz up the flavor with garlic, or a bit of nutmeg for that Swedish kick.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free version, and use non-dairy sauces if required.