3 Ingredients Crockpot Swedish Meatballs

Try making these incredibly simple 3-ingredient crockpot Swedish meatballs for dinner tonight! This recipe is a timeless favorite, featuring a rich and velvety gravy that is incredibly easy to make. With the assistance of pre-cooked frozen meatballs, it’s a breeze to whip up.

Swedish meatballs are typically enjoyed as a main course dish, unlike meatball sliders or classic meatballs and gravy, which are often served as appetizers.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to try something new in the kitchen! Preparing this dish is a breeze, taking just around 10 minutes of your time. Once done, simply let the crockpot handle the rest while you carry on with your day.

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What are Swedish Meatballs?

Swedish meatballs have a smooth and creamy texture, complemented by a rich brown gravy sauce. The sauce has a unique seasoning that gives it a delicious taste, different from traditional meatballs. Sometimes, people use onion soup mix instead of gravy to make them.

What is the difference between Italian meatballs and Swedish meatballs?

Spices make all the difference. These meatballs have a variety of spices and are served with a rich, creamy brown sauce instead of a red sauce. The seasonings for the Swedish Meatballs have a stronger flavor compared to a regular meatball, and the cream sauce enhances their taste. What makes them Swedish is the creamy sauce.

Recipe Ingredients

3 Ingredients Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs

Meatballs – I’m using frozen meatballs to save time, but you have the option to make your own meatballs from scratch. I absolutely love Costco Italian meatballs, but any homestyle or Italian style will be perfect. Ground beef is typically used to make these.
The Gravy – I’ve used Heinz HomeStyle Gravy, but you can use any brand you prefer or make the gravy at home using Water, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, brown gravy mix, and Worcestershire sauce.
Sour cream – Plain Greek yogurt can be substituted for the sour cream if desired.

Step by Step Directions

Step One – Pour the entire jar of Savory Beef-flavored gravy into the slow cooker. Add the container of sour cream and mix them until they form a smooth blend.

Step Two – Add the frozen meatballs, filling about two-thirds to three-quarters of the slow cooker. Stir well to coat the meatballs with the sauce.

Step Three – Cover and cook on low for at least 5 hours or until the meatballs are thoroughly heated. Give the meatballs a gentle stir every now and then.

Step Four – Once fully cooked, serve the meatballs with your choice of sides and enjoy!

What do I serve with this?

Wide egg noodles are a favorite pairing with crockpot Swedish meatballs. Instead of mixing them into the slow cooker, allow each guest to decide how many noodles and meatballs they prefer.
Mashed Potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to any dish that calls for gravy!
I absolutely love serving this dish with rice. This option absorbs more gravy than any of the other choices.

3 Ingredients Crockpot Swedish Meatballs

Recipes FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones. If using fresh meatballs, you might want to brown them in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot to enhance their flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover Swedish meatballs?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Can I cook the meatballs on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook the meatballs on high for about 2-3 hours instead of low for 5-6 hours. Just make sure to stir occasionally and check for doneness before serving.

Can you overcook meatballs in a slow cooker?

With time, frozen meatballs become even more delicious as they retain their moisture and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce during cooking. Make sure not to cook the dish for too long, as it may overcook and burn. Stick to the suggested cooking time.

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