Healthy and Flavorful Swedish Meatballs

4 stars
3.81 (17)
Healthy and Flavorful Swedish Meatballs
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
40mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 14, 2023

Enjoy a healthier version of a classic comfort food with these flavorful Swedish meatballs. Made with lean ground beef, whole wheat bread crumbs, and a creamy yogurt sauce, these meatballs are packed with protein and nutrients. Serve them over whole grain pasta or with mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup low-fat milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine lean ground beef, whole wheat bread crumbs, chopped onion, chopped parsley, egg, milk, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Gradually stir the yogurt mixture into the sauce.
  7. Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is thickened.
  8. Serve the meatballs over cooked whole grain pasta or with mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Interesting Facts

  • Swedish meatballs are a traditional dish that originated in Sweden and have become popular worldwide.
  • The use of lean ground beef and whole wheat bread crumbs in this recipe helps reduce the fat and calories, while still providing great flavor.
  • The creamy yogurt sauce adds a tangy and rich taste to the dish, without the need for heavy cream.
  • Meatballs are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on their own, with pasta, or used in a sandwich.
  • Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spices like garlic powder, paprika, or thyme to the meatball mixture.