Swedish Meatball Burgers Recipe

For Serving:

• 4 burger buns (or lettuce wraps for a low-carb version)
• Lingonberry jam (optional, for a Swedish touch)
• Pickled cucumbers (optional, for a tangy crunch)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Swedish Meatball Burgers

Making these burgers is easy, and the process can be broken down into a few simple steps. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, milk, egg, allspice, nutmeg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as that can make the patties tough.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Once the meatball mixture is well combined, divide it into 4 equal portions and shape each one into a patty about the size of a standard hamburger patty. You want them to be about 1/2 inch thick so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer—when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), the patties are ready.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

While the patties are cooking, you can prepare the gravy. In the same skillet (to take advantage of all the flavorful bits left behind), melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Stir the mixture constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour.

Gradually pour in 1 1/2 cups of beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the gravy for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream for richness, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a deeper flavor, you can add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Let the gravy simmer for a couple more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Once the patties are cooked and the gravy is ready, it’s time to assemble your Swedish Meatball Burgers. Place each patty on a burger bun (or use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version). Spoon a generous amount of the creamy gravy over the top of each patty. For an authentic Swedish touch, you can add lingonberry jam or a few slices of pickled cucumbers on top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Swedish Meatball Burgers with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this unique burger!

Tips for the Best Swedish Meatball Burgers

1. Use Ground Pork for Extra Flavor: While ground beef works perfectly in these burgers, adding ground pork (or using a beef-pork blend) will make them extra juicy and flavorful—just like traditional Swedish meatballs.
2. Adjust the Seasonings: If you love warm spices, feel free to adjust the allspice and nutmeg to your liking. These spices are the hallmark of Swedish meatballs and bring a unique flavor to the dish.
3. Make the Gravy Smooth: For a silky smooth gravy, be sure to whisk constantly while adding the broth, and make sure there are no lumps.
4. Serve with Swedish Sides: If you want to make the meal even more Swedish-inspired, serve your burgers with traditional sides like roasted root vegetables, Swedish potato salad, or a side of lingonberry jam for sweetness.
5. Customize the Toppings: Add other Swedish-inspired toppings like pickled red onions, dill, or crispy bacon for extra flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love Swedish Meatball Burgers

1. Comforting and Hearty: These burgers bring all the warmth and comfort of Swedish meatballs, making them the perfect dish for cozy dinners.
2. Quick and Easy: Unlike traditional Swedish meatballs, which can take a bit more time to prepare, these burgers are quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Fun Twist on a Classic: If you’re looking for something unique and fun, this recipe offers a creative spin on the classic Swedish meatball, bringing it into burger form.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: With tender, flavorful patties and creamy gravy, these burgers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, cookout, or family dinner.

Serving Suggestions

To complete your Swedish Meatball Burgers meal, consider pairing them with these sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food and pair perfectly with the rich gravy.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or parsnips would be a great accompaniment to these savory burgers.
• Swedish Potato Salad: For a classic Swedish touch, serve alongside a creamy potato salad with fresh dill and mustard.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the burgers and gravy.

Conclusion

Swedish Meatball Burgers are the perfect combination of two comfort food favorites: juicy burgers and the beloved Swedish meatball. With their tender, flavorful patties, creamy gravy, and just the right touch of spices, these burgers are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone at the table asking for more. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on your traditional burger night.

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Enjoy your Swedish Meatball Burgers—comforting, flavorful, and with a deliciously creamy twist!