Description
Easy Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs
Ingredients
2 lbs frozen meatballs (beef, pork, or turkey)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 packet (1 oz) brown gravy mix
1 cup beef broth
1 cup sour cream
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
12 oz egg noodles, cooked (for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, gravy mix, beef broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the meatballs.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, stirring occasionally to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
Serve the meatballs and creamy sauce over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your slow cooker is clean and ready. Place the frozen meatballs directly into the crock; no need to thaw. In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, dry gravy mix, and beef broth until smooth. This prevents lumps. Then, stir in the sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Pour this creamy sauce evenly over the meatballs. Use a spoon to gently stir and ensure all meatballs are coated. Cover with the lid and set to your desired setting: LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Stir gently once or twice during cooking if possible. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to package directions.
Serving Suggestions
While egg noodles are classic, these meatballs are versatile. For a lower-carb option, serve over mashed cauliflower or zucchini noodles. They also pair wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice to soak up the sauce. Add a side of steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a simple lingonberry jam for authentic Swedish flair. Don’t forget the garnish—fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness.
How-to Summary
In summary: combine sauce ingredients, pour over frozen meatballs in a slow cooker, and cook on LOW for 6 hours. Serve over noodles with a parsley garnish. It’s a minimal-prep, high-reward meal perfect for busy days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade meatballs? Absolutely. If using fresh, raw meatballs, brown them in a skillet first for better texture, then reduce cooking time to 4 hours on LOW or until cooked through.
How can I make this recipe thicker? If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking on HIGH.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the meatballs and sauce in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before starting the cooker.
What’s a good substitute for sour cream? Full-fat plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute, but stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent curdling.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-stirring, especially early on, as it can break down the meatballs. Do not lift the lid frequently, as this releases heat and significantly increases cooking time. Using “light” or fat-free sour cream can cause the sauce to separate or become grainy. Finally, do not add the sour cream at the very beginning if substituting yogurt; add it late to maintain creaminess.
Conclusion
This Easy Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs recipe is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort food. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, it delivers a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying meal that pleases the whole family. It’s a foolproof classic that proves delicious dinners don’t have to be complicated.