In the heart of a Swedish winter, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of Swedish meatball soup wafting through the kitchen. Picture tender meatballs swimming in a rich, creamy broth, dotted with vibrant vegetables that add a pop of color and flavor. comforting lasagna soup The moment you lift the spoon to your lips, you’re greeted by the warmth of spices mingling with the comforting textures of potatoes and carrots. chicken with creamy sauce It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for warming both body and soul.
This dish brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter mingled with the clinking of spoons against bowls. I can still hear my grandmother’s voice, declaring that a good meatball soup could cure just about anything. Zuppa Toscana recipe Whether it’s a chilly day or you simply need comfort food after a long week, this recipe will become your go-to for those moments when only a hearty bowl will do.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Swedish meatball soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors combine beautifully for an unforgettable taste experience
- With its inviting appearance, it is sure to impress at any dinner table
- Enjoy it alone or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal
I remember the first time I made this dish; my kids’ faces lit up as they took their first bites, and I knew I had struck gold.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use high-quality ground beef for juicy meatballs; consider 80/20 blend for the best flavor and texture. For more inspiration, check out this savory beef stroganoff recipe recipe.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for optimal flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring depth; use minced garlic for an aromatic kick.
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Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs; plain breadcrumbs work well but feel free to use seasoned ones.
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Egg: One large egg acts as a binder; it helps keep your meatballs moist and fluffy.
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Potatoes: Diced potatoes add heartiness; use waxy varieties like Yukon Gold for better texture.
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Carrots: Chopped carrots provide sweetness and color; they should be cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
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Dill: Fresh dill imparts that classic Swedish flavor; if unavailable, dried dill can work in a pinch.
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Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp on it if you want richness.
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Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control saltiness; homemade broth can elevate the flavors further.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and egg. perfect garlic bread side Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
Sauté the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add formed meatballs and sauté until browned on all sides—about 5-7 minutes—then remove them from the pot.
Add Vegetables and Broth: To the same pot, add diced potatoes and carrots along with beef broth. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Create Creamy Base: Once boiling, reduce heat and stir in heavy cream along with fresh dill. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes until vegetables are tender but not mushy. For more inspiration, check out this creamy pumpkin alfredo recipe.
Return Meatballs to Soup: Gently place browned meatballs back into the pot. Simmer together for another 5 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Serve Hot & Enjoy!: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with extra dill if desired. Pair with crusty bread or enjoy on its own while basking in warmth!
You Must Know
- This delightful Swedish Meatball Soup warms your heart and soul
- The creamy broth, paired with tender meatballs and veggies, creates a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings
- The aroma wafting from your kitchen will have your loved ones gathering around the dinner table in no time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs first to enhance flavor, then sauté onions and carrots while they cook. Add broth and seasonings before simmering everything together for 30 minutes to meld flavors.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add spices like nutmeg and allspice for a flavor twist. You can also toss in some fresh herbs to brighten the soup’s richness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the soup’s richness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Swedish Meatball Soup, always taste before serving; you might need more seasoning!
- Ensure your meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking
- Lastly, don’t rush the simmering process—allow those flavors to develop fully!
Sharing my first attempt at this recipe brings back fond memories; my friends were blown away by how comforting it was. Their compliments made me feel like a culinary superstar!

FAQ
What can I substitute for heavy cream in Swedish Meatball Soup?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.
Can I freeze Swedish Meatball Soup?
Yes, freeze it in airtight containers for up to three months for easy meals later.
How do I make meatballs without breadcrumbs?
Try oatmeal or crushed crackers as a gluten-free alternative for binding.
Swedish Meatball Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Swedish Meatball Soup is a heartwarming dish that will envelop you in its rich, creamy broth, filled with tender meatballs and vibrant vegetables. This cozy soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave comfort food. With a delightful combination of flavors, it’s sure to become your family’s favorite. Serve it alone or with crusty bread for a complete meal that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill (or ½ teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, and egg until just combined to form meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté meatballs until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from pot.
- Add potatoes and carrots to the same pot with beef broth; bring to a gentle boil while scraping the bottom for flavor.
- Stir in heavy cream and dill; reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Return meatballs to the pot and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Serve hot with extra dill garnish if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Swedish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg




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