Irresistible Swedish Meatballs with Frozen Meatballs Recipe

Name: Swedish Meatballs with Frozen Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Swedish
Ingredients: 1 lb frozen meatballs; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried thyme; Lingonberry jam (optional)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

February 18, 2026

Updated:

February 18, 2026

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of Swedish meatballs fills the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. These delightful morsels, often served with creamy gravy and lingonberry sauce, are comfort food at its finest. Imagine sinking your fork into a tender meatball, the savory flavors dancing on your palate like a waltz at a midsummer festival.

Growing up, my family would whip up Swedish meatballs with frozen meatballs on chilly evenings when we craved something hearty and satisfying. The laughter around the dinner table as we devoured these bites of joy is a cherished memory I hold dear. Perfect for a cozy family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish promises to warm both your belly and your heart.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Swedish meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

The flavor profile is rich and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the gravy
They look gorgeous on any plate, creating an inviting presentation for guests

Versatile enough for various occasions, they can be served as an appetizer or main course

I remember the first time I made these Swedish meatballs; my kids were ecstatic and devoured them in record time.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Frozen Meatballs: Choose quality frozen meatballs for convenience; they save time while keeping flavor intact.

Butter: Use unsalted butter for cooking; it adds richness without overwhelming the dish.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the gravy to achieve that perfect velvety texture.
Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth to control saltiness while enhancing the savory elements.

Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the gravy its creamy consistency and luxurious mouthfeel.
Onion Powder: A sprinkle of onion powder provides depth without having to chop any onions.
Garlic Powder: This adds a fragrant touch; feel free to adjust according to your garlic love level!

Dried Thyme: Thyme adds an earthy aroma that complements the meatballs beautifully.
Lingonberry Jam (optional): A dollop of lingonberry jam balances out the savory flavors with sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Sautéing the Meatballs: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding butter until melted. Toss in frozen meatballs and brown them evenly for about 8-10 minutes until golden.

Making the Gravy: Once browned, remove meatballs from the skillet. In the same pan, whisk flour into melted butter until combined—this will create a roux. Gradually add beef broth while stirring continuously until smooth.

Adding Flavor: Stir in heavy cream, onion powder, garlic powder, and thyme into the mixture. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened, allowing all those delightful aromas to meld together.

Returning Meatballs: Add browned meatballs back into the pan with gravy. Coat them well and let everything simmer together for another 5-7 minutes so flavors can fully marry.

Serving Suggestions: Serve your Swedish meatballs hot over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Don’t forget that optional lingonberry jam on top; it’s like a sweet hug for each bite!

Now you have an irresistible plate of Swedish meatballs with frozen meatballs ready to impress not just yourself but anyone lucky enough to join you! Enjoy every last savory bite as you reminisce about those delightful family gatherings around your own dinner table.

You Must Know

Swedish meatballs with frozen meatballs make life easier
They save time while still delivering delicious flavor
This shortcut allows you to whip up a comforting meal without the fuss of homemade meatballs, perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions in butter, then cook the frozen meatballs until browned. Prepare the creamy sauce while they cook for seamless timing.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice to enhance authenticity.

Storing & Reheating

Store meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs and spices to elevate your dish; they bring vibrant flavors that dried versions can’t match
Don’t overcrowd your pan while browning the meatballs; this ensures even cooking and better texture
Make sure to taste your sauce before serving for optimal seasoning balance

Creating Swedish meatballs with frozen meatballs reminds me of family gatherings where everyone devoured them, leaving only memories of laughter behind.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other types of frozen meatballs?

Yes, turkey or veggie options work great in this recipe too.

What sides pair well with Swedish meatballs?

Mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce are traditional favorites that complement the dish.

How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or omit them entirely for a lower carb option.

0 Shares