Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. This recipe features tender homemade meatballs simmered in a creamy broth infused with traditional Swedish spices like nutmeg and white pepper. Enhanced with fresh dill and parsley, the soup offers a balanced, nourishing meal that combines rich flavors, creamy texture, and wholesome ingredients for ultimate comfort and warmth.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Scandinavian
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour are used)
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (fresh, finely ground)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Broth and Soup Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour alternative)
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream
Herbs and Spices
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Shape the mixture into small, uniform meatballs for even cooking.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat butter and olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add meatballs carefully and brown them on all sides until golden but not cooked through. Remove and set aside to finish in the soup later.
- Sauté Aromatics and Make Roux: In the same pan, add more butter if needed. Sauté chopped onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir continuously to create a roux, thickening the broth when added.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Slowly whisk in chicken or beef broth to the roux, avoiding lumps. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat, and let simmer to develop a rich, savory base.
- Finish the Soup: Return browned meatballs to the pot. Stir in heavy cream or sour cream along with chopped fresh dill, parsley, and season with white pepper. Simmer until meatballs are fully cooked and flavors are well combined.
Notes
- Keep meatballs small and uniform for even cooking and better texture in the soup.
- Browning meatballs adds depth of flavor and a beautiful golden color.
- Use fresh dill and parsley to brighten and enhance the traditional Swedish character.
- Add cream gradually and taste to avoid overpowering the broth’s delicate balance.
- The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1 1/2 cups)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Swedish meatball soup, creamy meatball soup, comfort food, Scandinavian soup, hearty soup, meatball recipe