flavorful meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic Swedish favorite, made entirely without meat. Perfect for a cozy dinner, they’re easy to prepare and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time30 min
Total Time40 min
Difficulty
Medium
Helpful Tips For Cooking
Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from ingredients like tofu or vegetables to help the meatballs hold together better.
Use a non-stick skillet or lightly oil the pan to prevent the meatballs from sticking while cooking.
Cook the meatballs over medium heat to ensure they brown evenly without burning on the outside.
Ingredients
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Why You'll Keep Making This
These meatballs offer a comforting twist on a classic dish, using plant-based ingredients that are both hearty and flavorful. They are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a traditional taste without meat, making them great for vegetarians and those wanting to eat more plant-forward meals.
Step 1
Lightly heat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a big bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, chopped onion, pepper, nutmeg, and milk. Then, add the burger-style crumbles and stir everything until it’s well combined. Shape the mixture into balls about 1 ½ inches wide.
Step 2
Melt some butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatless balls on all sides, then use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a casserole dish that holds about 2 quarts.
Step 3
In the same skillet, whisk the flour into the drippings and keep stirring until the mixture bubbles. Slowly add the broth and cream, stirring constantly, and cook until the sauce thickens and starts to boil—this should take about a minute. Pour this creamy sauce over the meatless balls in the casserole dish.
Step 4
Finally, pop the dish in the oven and bake everything for about 30 minutes. When it’s done, the sauce will be nice and thick, and the balls will be heated through and flavorful. Enjoy!
122
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
What To Serve With This Dish
Serve these meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam for an authentic Nordic experience. They also pair well with egg-free gravy or a simple dill and mustard sauce. Add a side of steamed green beans or pickled cucumbers to balance the flavors.
Leftover Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 2 months—just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bread instead of crumbled bread slices?
Yes, fresh bread works well. Just tear it into small pieces or pulse briefly in a food processor to get crumbs.
What can I substitute for burger-style crumbles?
You can use cooked lentils, finely chopped mushrooms, or your favorite plant-based ground meat alternative.
Is it necessary to use half-and-half cream in the sauce?
Half-and-half adds creaminess, but you can substitute with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
Can I make the meatless balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the balls and sauce separately, then assemble and bake when ready.
How do I know when the sauce has thickened enough?
The sauce should bubble and coat the back of a spoon before pouring it over the balls.
Can I freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating gently.
What sides go well with these meatless balls?
They pair well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or buttered noodles.
Can I bake the meatballs without browning them first?
Browning adds flavor and texture but you can skip it if short on time; just bake longer until heated through.
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