This Slow Cooker Creamy Swedish Meatballs recipe is the ultimate comfort food made easy. Tender beef meatballs simmer in a rich, savory sauce made from mushroom soup, beef stock, and onion soup mix, finished with a swirl of sour cream for that classic creamy finish. Served over egg noodles, it’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Effortless preparation thanks to the slow cooker
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Rich and creamy sauce made with pantry staples
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Family-friendly and perfect for picky eaters
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Makes enough for leftovers—great for meal prep!
Ingredients Breakdown
Sauce Base
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400g can condensed mushroom soup – Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
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500ml beef stock – Deepens the savory flavor and thins the sauce to the perfect consistency.
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1 packet French onion soup mix (40g) – Boosts flavor with onions, herbs, and seasonings.
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy umami depth to the sauce.
Main Ingredients
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1kg frozen beef meatballs – The star of the dish; pre-cooked for convenience and slow-cooked until tender.
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400g egg noodles – Perfect base for soaking up the creamy, flavorful sauce.
Finishing Touch
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200ml sour cream – Stirred in at the end to create that signature creamy Swedish-style gravy.
Tips and Tricks:
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No sour cream? Use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as a substitute
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Extra creamy? Add a splash of heavy cream along with the sour cream
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Make it cheesy: Stir in shredded Swiss or Parmesan for a rich finish
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Use refrigerated or homemade meatballs if you prefer more control over ingredients
Variations and Customizations:
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Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: A lighter alternative to beef
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Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free noodles and soup mix
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to the sauce
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Vegetarian Option: Swap meatballs for veggie or lentil balls
Pairing Suggestions:
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Side Dishes:
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Steamed green beans
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Garlic roasted carrots
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Crisp garden salad
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Beverages:
- Sparkling apple cider
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Light lager or pale ale
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze cooled meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months
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Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of stock or cream if needed
Popular Questions:
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Yes! Just brown them first and add to the slow cooker for best texture.
Can I use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom?
Absolutely. It’ll slightly alter the flavor but still taste amazing.
Do I have to cook the noodles separately?
Yes. Cooking the noodles separately keeps them from getting mushy in the slow cooker.