Why Make This Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup is the perfect bowl of comfort for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something warm and hearty. This delicious soup combines tender, savory meatballs with a rich broth, creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly flavorful. As the meatballs simmer in the broth, they release their savory goodness, enriching every spoonful with comforting flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
How to Make Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
Making Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup is a simple process that results in a hearty meal. Start by making the meatballs, which blend flavorful ingredients mixed just right. You’ll then sauté vegetables to build the soup base before combining everything into a soothing broth. The steps are straightforward, and the results are just too good to pass up. As you cook, your kitchen will fill with the enticing smells of spices and simmering goodness, setting the perfect mood for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- 1/2 tsp allspice
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for browning meatballs)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 2 carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 stalks celery (sliced)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup (1 can)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh dill or parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, allspice, nutmeg, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
While the vegetables are cooking, heat the olive oil or butter in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per batch. This step is optional but adds great flavor.
Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables in the pot and stir to coat. Cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce.
Bring the soup to a simmer, then add the browned meatballs to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have melded.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approx. 1 cup):
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 26g
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 950mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Serve Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
Serve Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup with a hearty slice of crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth. It also pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad for some added crunch and color. For a cozy evening, enjoy it with a glass of red wine or hot apple cider.
How to Store Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
You can store leftovers of Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a pot on the stove, adding a little extra broth or water if it seems too thick.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
- Use a mix of beef and pork for meatballs for a richer flavor and juiciness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans for added nutrition.
- If you prefer a creamier soup, increase the amount of heavy cream.
- For added depth of flavor, consider seasoning the broth with herbs like thyme or bay leaves while simmering.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for the best flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Turkey Meatball Soup: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meatballs with chickpea or lentil patties, using vegetable broth instead.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Swedish Style: Incorporate lingonberry sauce for a sweet and tart contrast that pairs beautifully with the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove before serving. Letting the soup sit overnight allows the flavors to meld even further.
Can I substitute other ingredients?
Absolutely! You can replace beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat. If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work just fine, but panko adds a nice texture.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you want to avoid canned soups, you can create a homemade version by sautéing fresh mushrooms with butter, then blending them with cream and broth. This adds a fresh, earthy flavor to your soup.
Conclusion
Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines the comforting flavors of homemade meatballs with a creamy, rich broth. Perfect for family dinners, it’s easy to make and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of this delightful soup that will surely bring smiles to your table. Don’t forget to share your experience and tag your friends who would love this recipe! Happy cooking!
Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, allspice, nutmeg, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the vegetables are cooking, heat the olive oil or butter in a separate skillet and brown the meatballs in batches for about 2-3 minutes on all sides.
- Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then add the browned meatballs. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley.