Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and your home, these Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy are just what you need! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s incredibly easy to whip up and always delivers that comforting flavor we crave. Imagine coming home after a long day to the delightful aroma of tender meatballs simmering in a rich, creamy gravy—pure bliss! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

What I love most about these meatballs is how they bring everyone together around the dinner table. They’re perfect for serving over egg noodles or enjoying on their own with crusty bread. Plus, they make fantastic leftovers—if there are any left!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone loves meatballs, and this creamy gravy takes them to the next level!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.
• Comforting and Satisfying: This dish wraps you in warmth with each bite, making it ideal for chilly evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delicious meal. You probably have most of these items on hand already!

For the Meatballs

• 26 ounces frozen meatballs (precooked)

For the Creamy Gravy

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 dash allspice
• 1 dash nutmeg
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Serving

• Egg noodles (for serving)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some frozen peas or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick that will elevate the gravy!
• Change the noodles: Try serving over rice or mashed potatoes if you’re in the mood for something different.

How to Make Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by spraying your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. This little step makes cleanup much easier later on! Next, place the frozen meatballs at the bottom. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; they’ll cook perfectly as they soak up all that creamy goodness.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Gravy

In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt your butter. Once it’s bubbling away, whisk in your flour to create a roux. This step is crucial because it helps thicken your gravy beautifully! Slowly pour in the beef broth and heavy cream while whisking continuously until everything is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Seasonings

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, allspice, and nutmeg into your gravy mixture. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. These spices add depth to your sauce, making every bite memorable.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour that luscious creamy gravy over the meatballs in your crockpot. Give everything a gentle stir so those flavors meld together perfectly!

Step 5: Cook It Up

Cover your crockpot and cook on high for about 2 hours or low for 4–5 hours. The longer you cook them, the more flavorful they become! The smell will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking bites before dinner.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once done, serve your Crockpot Swedish Meatballs over egg noodles. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Making the perfect Crockpot Swedish Meatballs is all about a few helpful techniques that can elevate your dish from good to fantastic!

• Use frozen meatballs: Starting with frozen, precooked meatballs saves time and simplifies the process. They’ll soak up all that delicious gravy as they cook without requiring any pre-cooking.
• Whisk continuously: When making the roux, whisking continuously helps prevent lumps from forming in your gravy. A smooth sauce ensures every bite is creamy and delightful.
• Adjust seasonings to taste: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings, especially salt and pepper. Everyone has different preferences, and this step helps tailor the dish to your liking.
• Cook low and slow for tender meatballs: If you have the time, cooking on low for 4–5 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in incredibly tender meatballs that practically melt in your mouth.
• Add veggies for extra nutrition: Consider tossing in some frozen peas or diced carrots during the last hour of cooking. Not only do they add color and nutrition, but they also enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How to Serve Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy

Serving your Crockpot Swedish Meatballs should feel as comforting as eating them! Here are some delightful ways to present this hearty meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the rich gravy.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: While not traditional, a light dusting of grated Parmesan can add a savory depth that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy little gems provide a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the meatballs.
• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy gravy; it’s an irresistible combination!
• Steamed green beans: Lightly steamed green beans offer a fresh crunch that balances out the meal’s heaviness while adding a splash of color on your plate.
• Mashed potatoes: For an ultimate comfort food experience, serve these meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes instead of egg noodles; it’s pure bliss!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy comforting Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy whenever you crave a hearty dish. You can prepare it in advance and store it for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs and gravy to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the meatballs and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delightful meatballs? Here are some common queries!

Can I use homemade meatballs for the Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy?

Yes! While this recipe calls for frozen precooked meatballs, feel free to use your favorite homemade version. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot.

What can I serve with Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy?

These meatballs pair beautifully with egg noodles, but you can also serve them over mashed potatoes or rice for a deliciously comforting meal.

How do I make the gravy thicker in my Crockpot Swedish Meatballs?

If you prefer a thicker gravy, try adding an extra tablespoon of flour when whisking it together. You can also mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) into the gravy during the last hour of cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful recipe! The combination of tender meatballs enveloped in creamy gravy is truly special and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, it’s sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Enjoy making your own Crockpot Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy, and don’t forget to share your experience!