Swedish meatball soup is a comforting dish that you can easily make at home. This creamy soup is a hearty delight, featuring tender mini meatballs, flavorful broth, and delicious vegetables. The combination of spices and cream creates a rich taste that warms you from the inside out.
I remember the first time I tried to make this soup; I wanted something special for a family gathering. After testing various meatball recipes, I found the perfect mixture of beef and pork, seasoned just right with garlic and allspice. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up your own batch, especially when you see the smiles around the table as everyone digs in.
Whether you’re looking for a dinner idea or a unique dish to share, this Swedish meatball soup will become a favorite in your kitchen. With its kid-friendly appeal and satisfying flavors, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into the steps to make this mouthwatering dish!
Why You Will Love Swedish Meatball Soup
Swedish Meatball Soup is the perfect comfort food. It combines juicy meatballs with a creamy broth that warms you up on cold days.
You will enjoy the tender meatballs made from a mix of beef and pork. They are seasoned just right with spices like allspice and nutmeg, giving them a classic flavor.
The creamy sauce adds richness to the dish. This delicious broth is full of flavor and complements the meatballs beautifully.
This soup is family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will appreciate its hearty ingredients and comforting texture. It’s a great way to bring everyone together for a meal.
You can easily customize the soup with your favorite vegetables. Common choices include onions, carrots, and celery. They add extra nutrition and flavor.
Making Swedish Meatball Soup is simple. You can prepare the meatballs in advance, which makes it even more convenient for busy days.
How To Make Swedish Meatball Soup
Making Swedish meatball soup involves preparing flavorful meatballs and a rich broth. This delicious dish combines ground meats, spices, and a variety of vegetables, creating a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Gather these key ingredients for your Swedish meatball soup:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp allspice
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- For the Soup:
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced (yellow or white)
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard to taste
These ingredients create a flavorful and hearty soup.
Instruments
You will need several tools to make this dish:
- Cooking Equipment:
- Dutch Oven: Ideal for browning meatballs and cooking the soup.
- Baking Sheet: For baking the meatballs before adding them to the soup.
- Measuring Tools:
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy in ingredients.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the meatball ingredients thoroughly.
- Stirring Spoon or Whisk: For mixing the soup and ensuring even consistency.
Having these instruments ready will streamline the cooking process.
Step By Step Instruction
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, egg, and spices. Mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using your hands or a cookie scoop.
- Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until browned.
- Make the Soup: In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir until coated.
- Add Broth and Cream: Gradually pour in beef or chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer.
- Combine Meatballs and Cook: Gently add the baked meatballs into the soup. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve your soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips & Tricks
To enhance your Swedish Meatball Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Meat Selection: Using a mix of ground beef and ground pork can add interesting flavors. Aim for a lean blend for better texture.
- Spices: Use a mix of garlic powder, onion granules, nutmeg, and allspice. These spices give the meatballs their unique taste.
- Veggies: Add carrots, celery, and onions for extra nutrition and flavor. Sauté them at the beginning for added depth.
- Creaminess: Incorporating heavy cream or sour cream into the soup can create a richer texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last few minutes of cooking can boost flavor.
- Cooking Time: Make sure to cook the meatballs until they’re fully done. This usually takes about 20 minutes in a simmering soup.
For storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container. This will keep your soup fresh.
Heat your leftovers on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of broth if the soup thickens.
These tips will help you improve your Swedish Meatball Soup and enjoy it even more!
Ingredient Substitute
When making Swedish meatball soup, there are several ingredients you can substitute without losing flavor.
Sour Cream: You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, use a plant-based yogurt.
Milk: If you need a dairy-free option, almond milk or oat milk works well. You can also use soy milk if you prefer.
Frozen Meatballs: If you don’t have homemade meatballs, frozen meatballs are a quick substitute. Choose a brand that matches your dietary needs, like turkey or beef.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: This can be substituted with low-sodium vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. It still adds flavor to the soup.
Low-Sodium Beef Broth: If you want a richer taste, you can swap this with homemade beef broth. Just make sure it’s not too salty.
Feel free to mix and match these substitutes based on your dietary needs and preferences. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious bowl of Swedish meatball soup!
What To Serve With Swedish Meatball Soup
Swedish meatball soup is hearty and flavorful, making it a satisfying dish on its own. To complement this meal, consider serving a few sides that enhance the experience.
Here are some great options:
- Egg Noodles: Soft noodles are a classic choice. They soak up the soup’s broth nicely.
- Crusty Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread for dipping. This adds texture and a comforting element to your meal.
- Fresh Parsley or Dill: Use these herbs as a garnish. They add color and a hint of freshness to your soup.
- Potatoes: You might opt for red potatoes. Boil or roast them for a tasty side.
- Veggies: Pair your soup with steamed or roasted veggies. Options like carrots or broccoli work well.
- Lingonberry Jam or Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop on the side can add a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
- Brown Gravy: If you want more richness, serve a side of brown gravy. It can enhance the flavors of the soup.
These sides can help elevate your meal, making it more satisfying and enjoyable.
Nutrition Fact In List Form
- Calories: Approximately 505 per serving
- Serving Size: About 1 3/4 cups
Macronutrients
- Protein: 20-25g (varies by recipe)
- Total Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Total Sugars: 7g
- Added Sugars: Varies
- Cholesterol: 158mg
Vitamins and Minerals
- Rich in Vitamin B12
- Good source of Iron
- Contains Calcium and Phosphorus
Ingredients Impact
- Ground beef adds protein and iron.
- Creamy broth provides fat and calories.
- Potatoes contribute carbohydrates and fiber.
This soup is tasty and nourishing. The specific nutrition values may change based on the ingredients used. Check individual recipes for precise details.
