Swedish meatballs, or 'köttbullar,' are a beloved dish with origins tracing back to Sweden. Traditionally served with lingonberry sauce and creamy gravy, these meatballs have become a staple in many households worldwide, thanks in part to their popularity at a certain Swedish furniture store. This slow cooker version allows you to enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

These savory Swedish meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up the creamy sauce. A side of steamed green beans or a crisp cucumber salad can add a refreshing contrast. For a traditional touch, don't forget a spoonful of lingonberry jam on the side.

Servings: 4-6 servings

1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.

Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides. Transfer the browned meatballs to the slow cooker.

In the same skillet, add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Serve the meatballs with the sauce over your choice of sides.

For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. To add a touch of sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar to the sauce.

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