Why You’ll Love Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
Swedish Meatball Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the classic flavors of Swedish meatballs into a warm, nourishing bowl of soup. It’s an easy-to-make meal that combines tender meatballs, vegetables, and a creamy broth, perfect for chilly days or whenever you want a satisfying yet light dinner. This soup is packed with flavor and protein, making it a balanced meal that your whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated onion
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1 large egg
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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4 cups beef broth
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2 cups water
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3 large carrots, sliced
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2 celery stalks, sliced
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1 cup pearl barley (optional)
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1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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Fresh parsley for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined and form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Brown meatballs in batches until cooked through and set aside.
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In the same pot, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
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Pour in beef broth and water, bring to a simmer.
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Add carrots, celery, pearl barley (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Simmer until vegetables and barley are tender, about 25-30 minutes.
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Return meatballs to the pot and stir in the cream or half-and-half.
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Heat through but do not boil after adding cream.
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Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 45 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
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Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream.
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Add potatoes: Dice potatoes and add with the vegetables for a heartier soup.
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Use ground turkey or chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
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Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little heat.
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Make it gluten-free: Omit the pearl barley or substitute with quinoa.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
FAQs
Can I freeze Swedish Meatball Soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze before adding the cream. Thaw and add cream when reheating.
What can I substitute for pearl barley?
You can use quinoa, rice, or omit grains altogether.
How do I keep meatballs from falling apart in the soup?
Make sure to mix gently and not overwork the meat mixture, and brown the meatballs well before adding to the soup.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, meatballs can be made and refrigerated or frozen before adding to the soup.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, it stores well and reheats nicely for lunches or dinners.
Can I use pre-made meatballs?
Yes, pre-cooked meatballs can be added directly to the soup.
Can I make this soup vegan?
You can substitute meatballs with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth and a non-dairy cream.
What’s the best way to reheat without curdling the cream?
Reheat gently over low to medium heat and avoid boiling.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add peas, green beans, or mushrooms.
How thick is the soup?
It has a moderately creamy broth with hearty chunks of meatballs and vegetables.
Conclusion
Swedish Meatball Soup is a cozy, flavorful dish that transforms a classic comfort food into a warming soup perfect for any time of year. Easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for family meals or when you want something satisfying without the fuss. Try this recipe to bring a taste of Sweden to your kitchen in a comforting bowl.
