Aunt Rae’s Swedish Meatballs Recipe
Perfect for Holiday Gatherings, Family Meals, or Large Group Dinners
Description:
Aunt Rae’s Swedish meatballs have become a beloved family tradition, made for every holiday gathering at her house. These little meatballs always vanish in minutes, leaving everyone craving for more. Whether you are preparing for a festive meal or simply serving a crowd, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Simple to prepare and incredibly flavorful, these meatballs are the ideal party appetizer or main dish. Lightly seasoned with allspice, they offer the perfect balance of savory and aromatic flavors, making them a family favorite.
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Category: Pork
Servings: 25 meatballs
Calories per serving: 156.8
Ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ground Beef | 2 lbs |
Ground Pork | 1 lb |
Allspice | 1 tsp |
Milk | 1 cup |
Eggs | 2 large |
Onion (finely chopped) | 1/2 medium |
Salt | 1/8 tsp |
Sugar | 2 tsp |
Black Pepper | 2 tsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 156.8 kcal |
Fat Content | 10.3 g |
Saturated Fat | 4 g |
Cholesterol | 56 mg |
Sodium | 262.2 mg |
Carbohydrates | 4.1 g |
Fiber | 0.2 g |
Sugars | 0.7 g |
Protein | 11.2 g |
Instructions:
-
Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, allspice, milk, eggs, finely chopped onion, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, making sure the spices and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture. -
Shape the Meatballs:
Once the mixture is well blended, begin forming the meatballs. Take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into balls, roughly the size of melon balls. If you prefer slightly larger meatballs, you can adjust the size, but keep in mind that this will affect the cooking time. This recipe will make a large batch, perfect for a crowd or leftovers. -
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking during baking. Ensure the sheet is evenly coated. -
Bake the Meatballs:
Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow air to circulate around them. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes if you’re making smaller meatballs. If you’re opting for larger meatballs, you may need to bake them for an additional 5-10 minutes or until they are fully cooked through. -
Check for Doneness:
To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety. Once done, remove the meatballs from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
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Adjust the Size:
Depending on your preference, you can make the meatballs larger or smaller. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Larger meatballs will require a little more time in the oven. -
Freezing Option:
These meatballs freeze exceptionally well. You can prepare them ahead of time, bake them, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to serve. -
Flavor Variations:
For a slightly different flavor profile, you can add a small amount of garlic powder or onion powder to the mix. Some people also like to incorporate a bit of cream into the meat mixture for added richness.
Serving Suggestions:
Aunt Rae’s Swedish Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Try them as an appetizer with toothpicks at your next party, or serve them over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal. You can also pair them with a rich, creamy gravy for an even more indulgent treat. Either way, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Aunt Rae’s Swedish Meatballs are sure to be the star of your next holiday gathering or family dinner. With their irresistible flavor and easy preparation, you can enjoy this comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for large groups, these meatballs will be gone before you know it, leaving everyone satisfied and asking for the recipe. Happy cooking!