This Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe is the perfect dish for chilly days, offering a warm and satisfying meal that combines savory homemade meatballs with a creamy broth, vegetables, and tender noodles or potatoes. It’s great for family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you need some comfort food. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Meatballs:
- For the Soup:
- How to Make Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
- Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Step 3: Prepare the Soup
- Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Step 5: Finish the Soup
- Step 6: Serve
- How to Serve Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
- With Fresh Bread
- Accompanied by Salad
- Topped with Garnishes
- As a Family Meal
- How to Perfect Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
- Reheating Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use turkey instead of beef?
- How do I make this Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe dairy-free?
- What kind of vegetables can I add?
- How spicy is this soup?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together quickly with straightforward steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, spices, and creamy broth creates a deliciously comforting flavor profile.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your choice of vegetables or substitute egg noodles with diced potatoes to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The soup reheats well, allowing you to enjoy it over multiple meals without losing flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! This hearty soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential for efficient cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients evenly when preparing the meatballs.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning meatballs to enhance their flavor before adding them to the soup.
- Large pot: Essential for making the soup base and simmering all ingredients together harmoniously.

Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or beef (or a mix)
- ½ cup (60 g) breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Soup:
- 2 tbsp (28 g) butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 tbsp (24 g) all-purpose flour
- 4 cups (960 ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups (200 g) egg noodles or diced potatoes
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How to Make Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine:
1. Ground beef (or beef)
2. Breadcrumbs
3. Egg
4. Milk
5. Worcestershire sauce
6. Onion powder
7. Garlic powder
8. Salt
9. Black pepper
Mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter) and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
– Brown the meatballs in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden on all sides.
– Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Soup
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
– Add diced onion, carrots, and celery.
– Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
– Stir in flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
– Gradually pour in beef broth while whisking to combine and eliminate lumps.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a simmer.
– Add nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
– Gently add browned meatballs along with egg noodles (or diced potatoes).
– Continue simmering for 10-12 minutes until noodles or potatoes are tender and meatballs are fully cooked through.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
– Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Enjoy your delightful bowl of Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup!
How to Serve Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
This Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup is perfect for sharing and can be served in various delightful ways. Enhance your dining experience with these serving suggestions that complement the soup’s rich flavors.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Garlic Bread: For an extra kick, pair it with warm garlic bread, adding a wonderful aroma.
Accompanied by Salad
- Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch that balances the creamy soup.
- Mixed Greens: Simple mixed greens tossed in a vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast.
Topped with Garnishes
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and herbal flavor.
- Grated Cheese: Add some grated cheese, like Parmesan or Gruyère, for added richness.
As a Family Meal
- In Large Bowls: Serve in large bowls for family-style dining, encouraging everyone to dig in together.
- With Extra Noodles or Potatoes: Offer additional noodles or potatoes on the side for those who want a heartier meal.
How to Perfect Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
Perfecting this cozy recipe is all about balancing flavors and textures. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and quality beef for the best flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasonings as you go; every palate is different.
- Cook Meatballs Gently: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when browning meatballs to ensure even cooking.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer gently; this helps meld the flavors beautifully.
- Experiment with Noodles or Potatoes: Feel free to swap egg noodles for whole grain pasta or use sweet potatoes for a twist.
- Make Ahead of Time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead and store it in the fridge for enhanced flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
Pair your Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup with complementary side dishes for a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting addition.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add vibrant colors and flavors while remaining nutritious.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a touch of balsamic glaze provide a delightful crunch.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and herbs offer another hearty element to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks: Cheesy breadsticks are fun to pull apart and dip into the soup, enhancing the dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe from good to great.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the meatballs can lead to a lack of flavor. Always brown them in batches for better taste.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until they begin to soften for the best texture.
- Not Whisking the Broth: Pouring in broth without whisking can create lumps. Gradually whisk it in to ensure a smooth soup.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting before serving is crucial. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper for optimal flavor.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth can lower the soup’s temperature. Warm them slightly beforehand for a better result.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion.
Reheating Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe.
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that works well in this recipe while keeping it just as cozy and delicious.
How do I make this Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe dairy-free?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream. This retains creaminess without dairy.
What kind of vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add peas, green beans, or bell peppers based on your preference. They will enhance both flavor and nutrition.
How spicy is this soup?
This Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe is mild but flavorful. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe is a perfect dish for chilly days, offering warmth and satisfaction. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Try it today and experience the comfort in every spoonful!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Warm up with this Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup Recipe featuring savory meatballs and creamy broth. Perfect for cold days—try it now!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups egg noodles or diced potatoes
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined. Roll into small meatballs.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs for about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in flour and cook for another minute.
- Gradually add beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Add nutmeg, salt, pepper, browned meatballs, and egg noodles (or potatoes). Simmer for 10-12 minutes until tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Swedish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg





