Pot Swedish Meatballs: 10-Minute Comfort Food Delight

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Pot Swedish Meatballs is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. These tender meatballs are cooked in a creamy Swedish-style gravy, all made quickly in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, these meatballs can be served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, garnished with fresh parsley. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Pot Swedish Meatballs

These Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Here are a few reasons to love this recipe:

Quick cooking time of just 40 minutes.
One-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
Flavorful creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with various sides.
Customizable to suit dietary preferences, including Keto Swedish Meatballs recipe.
Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday gatherings.

This dish falls under the Swedish cuisine category, making it a delightful addition to any menu.

Ingredients for Pot Swedish Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 lb ground beef (or beef/pork mix)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 small onion (finely grated or minced)
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning)
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water
1/2 to 1 cup heavy cream (to taste)
Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)

How to Make Pot Swedish Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 2: Add ground meat, grated onion, egg, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg to the bowl; mix gently until just combined.
Step 3: Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1½ tablespoons each.
Step 4: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat olive oil.
Step 5: Brown meatballs in batches, then remove and set aside.
Step 6: Add butter to the pot, then pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Scrape the bottom to deglaze.
Step 7: Return meatballs to the pot, seal the lid, and cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes.
Step 8: Allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Step 9: Set Instant Pot to Sauté. Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into the sauce; simmer 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
Step 10: Stir in heavy cream and heat gently until sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 11: Serve meatballs hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pot Swedish Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Use a mix of beef and pork for richer flavor.
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Ensure to deglaze the pot thoroughly to prevent burning.
Adjust the amount of heavy cream according to your taste.

Best Ways to Serve Pot Swedish Meatballs

These meatballs shine when served with:

Mashed potatoes, providing a classic comfort meal.
Egg noodles, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Rice, for a lighter option.

How to Store and Reheat Pot Swedish Meatballs

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This makes for an excellent meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pot Swedish Meatballs

What are Swedish Meatballs made of?

Swedish meatballs are typically made from ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices such as allspice and nutmeg, combined in a creamy gravy. Learn more about the traditional ingredients here.

Can I make Pot Swedish Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and form the meatballs ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pot Swedish Meatballs?

Avoid overcooking the meatballs to prevent them from becoming tough. Also, ensure the sauce is thickened properly before serving.

Variations of Pot Swedish Meatballs You Can Try

Here are a few delicious variations:

Gluten-free Swedish Meatballs options: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Keto Swedish Meatballs recipe: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb option.
Quick Swedish Meatballs with lingonberry sauce: Serve with sweet lingonberry sauce for a traditional twist.