Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs

There’s something magical about the aroma of slow-cooked Swedish meatballs wafting through the house. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting an elegant gathering, these meatballs are your go-to recipe. Imagine tender meatballs infused with rich flavors, all thanks to the slow cooker that does the heavy lifting for you. Perfect for busy weekdays or a sophisticated weekend meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Swedish meatballs are the epitome of comfort food. The slow cooker not only makes this dish effortless but also enhances the flavors, making each bite heavenly. With minimal cleanup, especially if you use Reynolds Kitchens’ Slow Cooker Liners, you can enjoy more time with your family or guests. Whether it’s a quick midweek meal or an impressive dish for a dinner party, this recipe has you covered.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Slow cooker (2.5 to 4 liters)
• Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liner (optional)

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound of lean ground beef
• 1/2 grated or finely chopped onion
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• 1 tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Swedish Meatballs in the Slow Cooker:

• 1 1/2 cups low sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup half and half
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon of chopped garlic
• 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 pinch of nutmeg

Step-by-Step Instructions

Baked Meatballs:

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, onion, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to over-mix.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Shape the mixture into 1-1.5 inch meatballs and place them 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. You should get approximately 35 meatballs.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. Set aside to cool slightly. You can freeze them for up to 3 months if desired.

Swedish Slow Cooker Meatballs:

1. Place a Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liner in the slow cooker. Add the baked meatballs.
2. In a bowl, combine the beef broth, half and half, cornstarch, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, parsley, salt, thyme, pepper, and nutmeg.
3. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2 hours, until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve the meatballs with sauce over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

Tips for Success

• For even meatballs, use a cookie scoop to portion out the meat mixture.
• If freezing the meatballs, flash freeze them on a tray before transferring to a bag to prevent sticking.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a creamier sauce, add a splash of cream cheese before serving.
• Try adding a pinch of allspice for a traditional Swedish flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 250, Protein: 17g, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 10g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be a leaner alternative and will still taste delicious.

Can I make the meatballs in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare and bake the meatballs, then freeze them. Thaw before adding to the slow cooker.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs are a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food with minimal effort. Give this recipe a whirl and let the slow cooker work its magic. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so feel free to share your experiences in the comments below. Enjoy!