Swedish Köttbullar

Swedish Köttbullar are small, savory meatballs traditionally made from a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with spices like allspice and nutmeg, and often served with a creamy gravy, lingonberry jam, and mashed potatoes. While typically formed into small spheres, they can sometimes be shaped into small loaves or patties. This beloved comfort food is a staple of Swedish cuisine, famously enjoyed in homes, cafeterias, and IKEA restaurants worldwide.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Köttbullar are a protein-rich dish, primarily providing energy from protein and fat, with minimal carbohydrates unless served with sides like potatoes or gravy. A typical serving of around 4-5 meatballs (approximately 100-150g) offers roughly 200-300 calories, along with iron and B vitamins from the meat.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	350 kcal
Protein	20 g
Carbs	15 g
Fat	24 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	600 mg
Iron	3 mg
Zinc	4 mg
Vitamin B12	2 mcg
Phosphorus	200 mg
Selenium	25 mcg
Niacin (B3)	5 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Calcium	50 mg

Per 6 meatballs (approx. 150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Swedish meatballs have sparked a playful national debate over their true origin, with some historical evidence suggesting they were inspired by a recipe brought back from Turkey in the 18th century. Nutritionally, the traditional inclusion of ingredients like soaked bread or milk in the meat mixture helps keep the meatballs tender and moist, a technique that also subtly adds to their carbohydrate content.