Swedish Meatballs with Rice
Swedish Meatballs with Rice is a comforting Nordic dish featuring small, seasoned meatballs (typically a blend of beef and pork) served in a rich, creamy gravy, traditionally paired with mashed potatoes but often enjoyed with rice for a heartier meal. The meatballs are flavored with spices like allspice and nutmeg, while the gravy is made from a roux, beef broth, and cream or sour cream. While originating from Sweden, this version with rice is a popular home-style adaptation worldwide.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in protein from the meatballs and moderate in fat from the creamy gravy and meat, with carbohydrates coming primarily from the rice. It provides key nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, with a rough calorie estimate of 450-550 kcal per typical serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Iron | 4.2 mg |
| Zinc | 5.8 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.8 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 7.5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Selenium | 22 mcg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) with rice and gravy · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Swedish meatballs are a staple of Swedish 'husmanskost' (traditional home cooking) and are often served during celebrations like Midsummer. Nutritionally, pairing the protein-rich meatballs with rice creates a more balanced meal with sustained energy from complex carbs.
