If you’re craving that iconic IKEA Swedish meatball experience but want to enjoy it right in your own kitchen, you’re in the right place! IKEA meatballs are beloved worldwide for their tender texture and rich, creamy sauce. Cooking them perfectly is easier than you might think, whether you have the frozen ready-made ones or want to make them from scratch. Let’s dive into how you can cook IKEA meatballs to delicious perfection.
Cooking IKEA Frozen Meatballs: Simple and Quick
If you’ve bought IKEA’s frozen meatballs, cooking them is straightforward:
– Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 225°C (about 437°F). Place the frozen meatballs on a baking tray in a single layer. Bake them in the middle of the oven for about 15 minutes until they’re heated through and golden brown.
– Pan Frying: Alternatively, you can heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the frozen meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned and hot inside. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
The oven method is great for convenience and even cooking, while pan-frying adds a nice crisp exterior.
Making the Classic Creamy Sauce
What truly makes IKEA meatballs special is their creamy gravy. Here’s how to make it:
- Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in about 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Gradually whisk in ½ cup each of beef broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously to keep the sauce smooth.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
- Season with salt, pepper, a teaspoon of soy sauce, and a bit of Dijon mustard for depth of flavor.
Once your sauce is ready, add the cooked meatballs to the skillet, gently coating them in the gravy. Let them simmer together for 5-10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Homemade IKEA Meatballs: DIY Swedish Classic
If you want to go beyond the frozen version and cook IKEA-style meatballs from scratch, here’s a simple recipe inspired by IKEA’s official ingredients and method:
Ingredients for Meatballs
– 500g ground beef
– 250g ground pork
– 1 finely chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 100g breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 5 tablespoons whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredients for Sauce
– 40g butter
– 40g plain flour
– 150ml vegetable stock
– 150ml beef stock
– 150ml thick double cream
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: Mix the beef and pork with onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Shape into small round balls and refrigerate for 2 hours to help them hold their shape.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat oil in a pan and brown the meatballs on all sides. Transfer them to an ovenproof dish, cover, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour, and cook for 2 minutes. Gradually add vegetable and beef stock, stirring continuously. Then add cream, soy sauce, and mustard. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer together briefly before serving.
Serving Suggestions for the Authentic IKEA Experience
To recreate the full IKEA meal vibe, serve your meatballs with:
– Creamy mashed potatoes or mashed cauliflower
– Lingonberry sauce for a sweet-tart contrast
– A sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness
This combination balances savory, creamy, and fruity flavors that make IKEA meatballs irresistible.
Tips for Perfect IKEA Meatballs Every Time
– Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning meatballs to ensure they sear nicely instead of steaming.
– Letting the meatball mixture rest in the fridge helps them keep their shape.
– The creamy sauce can be adjusted with more or less cream depending on your preference.
– Leftover meatballs freeze well, so make extra and enjoy them later.
With these tips and steps, you’re set to enjoy the famous IKEA meatballs anytime you want.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delicious results!