RECIPE: https://www.thecountrycook.net/crock-pot-swedish-meatballs/ About Me: I’m a newlywed who recently married the love of …
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Crock Pot Swedish Meatballs Recipe: Easy & Budget-Friendly
When it comes to comfort food that is easy to prepare and budget-friendly, few dishes can rival the deliciousness of Swedish meatballs. This classic dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy get-togethers with friends. By utilizing a crock pot, you can let the flavors meld together without spending hours in the kitchen. Below, you’ll find a simple and affordable Crock Pot Swedish meatballs recipe that will make your taste buds sing.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). This recipe should make approximately 20-24 meatballs.
Brown the Meatballs (optional but recommended): For added flavor, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown on all sides. This step enhances the taste, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
Transfer to Crock Pot: Place the meatballs into the bottom of your crock pot.
Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and all-purpose flour (if using). Whisk until smooth and well incorporated. Pour the mixture over the meatballs in the crock pot.
Cook: Set your crock pot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatballs should be cooked through, and the sauce will be thickened and flavorful.
Final Touches: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it up.
- Serve: Once the meatballs are ready, serve them hot over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or with a side of roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor and color.
Tips for Success
Budget Variations: For a more economical version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also make the meatballs smaller; this recipe is flexible!
Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made ahead of time and frozen. Just thaw them in the refrigerator the night before cooking, and they’ll be ready to go for your crock pot.
- Additions or Substitutions: Feel free to add spices or herbs like allspice or nutmeg to the meatball mixture for an extra flavor boost. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or dairy-free sour cream.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Swedish meatballs are a quintessential comfort dish that is as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering meal that is sure to please anyone around your dining table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, this easy and budget-friendly recipe will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy the warm, hearty flavors of this classic dish without breaking the bank!
