This Swedish Meatball Meatloaf recipe is an original twist on the classic dish, combining the comforting flavors of Swedish meatballs with the convenience of a meatloaf. The result is a tender, juicy meatloaf that’s packed with savory spices and topped with a creamy gravy. Perfect for a family dinner, this meatloaf captures the essence of Swedish cuisine in an easy-to-make format that everyone will love.

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Swedish meatballs, or "köttbullar" as they are known in Sweden, are a beloved part of Swedish cuisine with a history that is as rich and flavorful as the dish itself. Traditionally made with a mixture of ground meats, typically beef and pork, these meatballs are seasoned with warm spices like allspice and nutmeg. The origins of Swedish meatballs are said to date back to the early 18th century, when King Charles XII of Sweden returned from his exile in the Ottoman Empire, bringing with him a taste for spiced meatballs, which were likely inspired by the kofte dishes he encountered during his time there. This culinary influence was adapted to Swedish ingredients and cooking methods, giving birth to what we now know as Swedish meatballs.

The unique appeal of Swedish meatballs lies not just in the blend of meats and spices but also in the way they are served. Traditionally, Swedish meatballs are paired with a creamy gravy and served alongside lingonberry jam, which adds a sweet and tart contrast to the savory meat. This Swedish Meatball Meatloaf takes these classic flavors and presents them in a new, family-friendly format that combines the best of both worlds. By transforming the beloved Swedish meatballs into a meatloaf, this recipe offers a convenient and satisfying way to enjoy all the comforting flavors of the traditional dish, making it perfect for a hearty dinner. The meatloaf captures the essence of Swedish cuisine, with the creamy gravy poured over the top, just as you would find in a traditional serving of Swedish meatballs.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up the rich gravy.

- Pair with a side of lingonberry jam for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory meatloaf.

- Add a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to round out the meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 10 servings):

• - Calories: 390
• - Total Fat: 25g
• - Saturated Fat: 10g
• - Cholesterol: 125mg
• - Sodium: 800mg
• - Total Carbohydrates: 15g
• - Dietary Fiber: 1g
• - Sugars: 2g
• - Protein: 28g

Classic Swedish MeatballsPhoto byDivya KotharionUnsplash

Storage Information:

- Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

- You can also freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Swedish Meatball Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• - 2 pounds ground beef
• - 1 pound ground pork
• - 1 cup mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
• - 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• - 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
• - 2 large eggs
• - 1 cup dried breadcrumbs
• - 2 teaspoons allspice
• - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• - 2 teaspoons salt
• - 1 teaspoon white pepper
• - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• - 1 teaspoon soy sauce

For the Gravy:

• - 2 cups beef stock or broth
• - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• - 1/2 cup sour cream
• - Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, mashed potatoes, fresh parsley, finely chopped onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, allspice, nutmeg, salt, white pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Mix until everything is well combined, being careful not to overmix.

3. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly.

4. Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the meatloaf loosely with aluminum foil during the last 20 minutes of baking.

5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the gravy. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned, creating a roux.

6. Gradually whisk in the beef stock, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the sour cream until smooth. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing.

8. Serve the sliced meatloaf with the prepared gravy, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Swedish-inspired dish.

This Swedish Meatball Meatloaf is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of Swedish meatballs in a new format. With its tender texture, warm spices, and rich gravy, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite.