THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Slow Cooker Recipe for Swedish Meatballs
This comforting dish brings tender meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy meal. Using a slow cooker makes it easy to prepare and lets the flavors develop beautifully with minimal effort.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Slow Cooker Recipe for Swedish Meatballs
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
In a medium bowl, combine the beef, oats, egg, garlic, allspice, ginger, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Then, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 2 tablespoons each—you should get around 17.
02
Step 2
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt a couple of tablespoons of butter. Brown the meatballs in batches, cooking them for about 4 to 6 minutes until they develop a nice crust. Flip them over and cook for another 3 minutes. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to your slow cooker, leaving the butter and juices in the skillet.
03
Step 3
Turn the heat back to medium-high and add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the flour and cook for about 30 seconds, then slowly whisk in the water, beef base, and steak sauce. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan and let the sauce come to a boil, whisking until it thickens, which should take about a minute. Pour this sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
04
Step 4
Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 to 5 hours. When it’s done, scoop out about a quarter cup of the cooking liquid into a small bowl. Stir in the yogurt gradually to temper it and avoid curdling, then mix the yogurt back into the slow cooker. Give it a taste and add more salt and pepper if you think it needs it.
Why you’ll love it
These meatballs are tender and full of rich, comforting flavors. Cooking them slowly allows the sauce to deepen and the meat to stay juicy. It’s a hands-off meal that fills your home with a wonderful aroma.
How to serve
Serve the meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles. A side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad pairs well to balance the richness. Lingonberry jam is a traditional addition that adds a sweet-tart contrast.
Storage & leftovers
Allow the meatballs and sauce to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating gently.
