Description
This recipe for Swedish Meatballs features a wholesome blend of lean ground turkey and beef combined with aromatic vegetables and spices, simmered gently in a flavorful beef broth, then finished with a creamy sauce made from reduced-fat cream cheese. Perfectly tender and richly comforting, these meatballs make a delicious, lighter take on the classic Scandinavian dish, served garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatball Mixture
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 celery stalk, minced
- 1/4 cup minced parsley
- 1/2 pound 93% lean ground turkey
- 1/2 pound 95% lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or gluten-free crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
Broth & Sauce
- 2 cups reduced sodium beef broth
- 3 ounces reduced fat cream cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onions and garlic and sauté until the onions turn translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add the minced celery and parsley and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef and turkey with the cooled sautéed vegetable mixture. Add the egg, seasoned breadcrumbs, 1/4 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and allspice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Shape the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs.
- Simmer Meatballs in Broth: Pour the reduced sodium beef broth into the skillet and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering broth. Cover the skillet and cook the meatballs gently for about 20 minutes until they are fully cooked through.
- Prepare Creamy Sauce and Combine: Using a slotted spoon, remove the meatballs from the broth and place them in a serving dish. Strain the broth to remove any solids and transfer it to a blender. Add the reduced fat cream cheese to the broth and blend until smooth and creamy. Return this sauce to the skillet, add the meatballs back in, and let them simmer together briefly to meld flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Spoon the meatballs and creamy sauce onto serving plates or a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish as a main course with your choice of side.
Notes
- You can substitute the ground turkey and beef for all beef if preferred, but lean versions help keep the dish lighter.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, depending on the saltiness of your broth and broth alternatives.
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a simple green salad.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
