slow cooker swedish meatballs recipe
- The Best slow cooker swedish meatballs recipe
- Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Sauce
The Best slow cooker swedish meatballs recipe
I love this recipe because it’s foolproof. You don’t have to be a chef to pull it off—just a little prep and a few hours of hands-off cooking. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can focus on other things while the meatballs and gravy simmer together. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers or stretch a meal further without sacrificing flavor. And the best part? It’s not just tasty—it’s also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a balanced choice for the whole family. No one has to feel guilty about enjoying something so delicious. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve done something good for your family, and that’s something worth celebrating.
Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Sauce
A comforting, hands-off dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners. The slow cooker ensures juicy, flavorful results with minimal effort.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1/2 cup finely diced carrots
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the meatballs separately. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, carrots, celery, allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. -
2
Form the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Transfer the meatballs to your slow cooker. -
3
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour the garlic mixture into the slow cooker with the meatballs. -
4
Add beef broth, crushed tomatoes, milk, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to combine. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until meatballs are tender and sauce thickens.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Sauce
How long do I need to cook the Swedish meatballs in the slow cooker?
Cook the meatballs on low for 3 to 3½ hours or on high for 2 to 2½ hours, until the meatballs are tender and the gravy has thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them. Reheat in the slow cooker on low for 1 to 1½ hours, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep the gravy moist.
What if my slow cooker doesn’t have a lid?
If your slow cooker lacks a lid, cover it loosely with a damp kitchen towel or aluminum foil to trap steam. Cook on low for 3 to 3½ hours or high for 2 to 2½ hours, adjusting time slightly if steam escapes frequently.
How do I adjust the recipe for a larger batch?
For a bigger batch, scale up the meatballs and gravy proportionally—each meatball should still weigh about 3 to 4 ounces. Increase the slow cooker’s capacity by about 25% to 33% for a fuller pot, and check for doneness with a meat thermometer (aim for 160°F for internal safety).
