Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe – Creamy & Comforting

Warm, hearty, and comforting, this Swedish Meatball Soup is the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening. The rich, creamy broth combined with tender meatballs, vegetables, and a touch of nutmeg makes this recipe a true comfort food classic. This soup offers a delightful balance of savory flavors that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Swedish Meatball Soup is a dish that will quickly become a favorite.

The soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can make it with ground beef, pork, or a combination of both for the meatballs, creating a rich base for the soup. The addition of egg noodles or diced potatoes makes it filling and perfect for a hearty meal. The creamy texture, along with the subtle flavors of Worcestershire sauce and nutmeg, makes each spoonful comforting. You’ll be hooked after the first taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Its creamy broth combined with tender meatballs and vegetables creates a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s a simple recipe to prepare, perfect for those looking for an easy yet flavorful dish. The addition of egg noodles or potatoes makes it even more hearty, and the flavors are perfectly balanced with a subtle hint of nutmeg. Whether served for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• Ground beef or pork (or a mix)
• Breadcrumbs
• Large egg
• Milk
• Worcestershire sauce
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

For the Soup:

• Butter
• Medium onion
• Carrots
• Celery stalks
• All-purpose flour
• Beef broth
• Heavy cream
• Nutmeg
• Salt (or to taste)
• Black pepper
• Egg noodles or diced potatoes
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Variations

There are several ways to make this Swedish Meatball Soup your own:

• Meat choices: You can substitute the ground beef and pork with turkey, chicken, or even meatless options like lentils or plant-based meat for a healthier alternative.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn for more texture and flavor.
• Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
• Noodles vs. Potatoes: Choose between egg noodles or diced potatoes depending on your preference for texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or pork, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients together until fully incorporated. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set them aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Add the Flour and Broth

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour. Slowly add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Meatballs and Noodles

Add the browned meatballs back to the pot along with the egg noodles or diced potatoes. Simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the noodles or potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Stir in the Cream and Season

Add the heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to the soup. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the soup before serving for a touch of color and flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Be sure to brown the meatballs well before adding them to the soup to enhance their flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let the soup simmer longer or add a bit more flour when cooking the vegetables.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste; if you like a spicier soup, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika.
• For a smoother broth, use an immersion blender to blend the soup slightly before adding the meatballs and noodles.
• If using potatoes, make sure to cut them into small cubes to ensure they cook evenly with the meatballs and vegetables.

How to Serve

Serve this comforting Swedish Meatball Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The creamy texture and hearty meatballs make it a filling dish on its own, but a side of warm bread will complement it perfectly. You can also top the soup with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup will continue to thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little bit of broth or cream when reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat the soup, place it in a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a little more broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or pork?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative to beef or pork.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for later use.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as macaroni or small shells.

4. How do I make this soup spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or paprika to increase the heat.

5. Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, frozen meatballs can be used as a shortcut, though homemade meatballs tend to have a better flavor.

6. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make the soup dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.

7. How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, add a little more flour when sautéing the vegetables or use less broth.

8. Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Frozen vegetables can be used as a substitute for fresh ones; just be sure to adjust the cooking time.

9. What can I serve with this soup?

A side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad pairs wonderfully with this soup.

10. Can I use potatoes instead of noodles?

Yes, diced potatoes make a great alternative to noodles in this soup.

Conclusion

This Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory meatballs, a creamy broth, and vegetables into a satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and customizable with a variety of ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it with egg noodles or diced potatoes, this soup will keep you warm and full. Plus, it stores well for leftovers and freezes beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Try this recipe today for a heartwarming dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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