If you’re craving a hearty, creamy, and comforting meal that practically cooks itself, you’re going to love this Easy Crockpot Swedish Meatballs recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this slow-cooked meal brings all the cozy vibes of classic Swedish meatballs without the hassle. Made with frozen meatballs, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, onion soup mix, and beef broth, this dish comes together beautifully in your slow cooker. Serve it over tender noodles and you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s rich, flavorful, and super simple to make.
Whether you’re looking to feed a large family or want easy leftovers for lunch the next day, this dish has you covered. Plus, with just a few pantry and freezer staples, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this creamy crockpot Swedish meatballs recipe:
- Dump and go – Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work.
- Minimal prep – Using frozen meatballs saves tons of time and effort.
- Budget-friendly – Made with affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
- Ultra-creamy – Thanks to the sour cream and cream of mushroom base, it’s full of cozy, savory flavor.
- Family-friendly – Even picky eaters will go back for seconds!
- Perfect for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this rich and creamy slow cooker Swedish meatball recipe:
- 2 cans Cream of Mushroom Soup – This creates the savory, creamy base that coats the meatballs perfectly.
- 1 16 oz container Sour Cream – Adds tangy richness and velvety smooth texture.
- 2 bags Frozen Meatballs – No need to thaw! Just toss them in straight from the freezer.
- 1 packet Onion Soup Mix – Brings in deep, savory flavor with just one packet.
- Noodles – Egg noodles or your favorite pasta work great.
- Beef Broth – Adds depth and helps thin the cream of mushroom to a silky consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This is truly a no-fuss, hands-off recipe. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Make the Creamy Base
Start by emptying your two cans of cream of mushroom soup into your crockpot. Fill each empty can with beef broth and pour that in too. Add the packet of onion soup mix and stir until everything is well combined.
Step 2: Add the Meatballs
Next, add in your frozen meatballs. Stir everything together to coat the meatballs in the creamy mixture. Cover your crockpot with the lid.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. This gives the meatballs plenty of time to absorb all that rich flavor while staying juicy and tender.
Step 4: Stir in the Sour Cream
After 5-6 hours, stir in the sour cream until it’s fully incorporated. This final step takes the creaminess to the next level and gives the dish its signature Swedish meatball taste.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
While the meatballs finish, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your noodles according to package directions. Drain them well.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked noodles to the crockpot and stir everything together. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Swedish Meatballs
- Use quality frozen meatballs – The flavor of your dish will depend on the meatballs you choose. Look for homestyle or beef meatballs for best results.
- Don’t skip the sour cream – It makes a big difference in the flavor and texture of the sauce.
- Adjust the consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or milk. Too thin? Let it sit uncovered for a few minutes or add a bit of cornstarch slurry.
- Add extra flavor – Love garlic? Stir in some garlic powder or minced garlic. Want a bit of zing? A dash of Worcestershire sauce can elevate the flavor.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to make this dish your own? Here are some easy variations:
- Swap the soup – Instead of cream of mushroom, use cream of chicken or cream of celery for a slightly different flavor.
- Use fresh meatballs – If you have time, homemade meatballs work wonderfully, just make sure they’re cooked before adding to the crockpot.
- Add vegetables – Mushrooms, peas, or sautéed onions can add some freshness and texture.
- Low-carb version – Skip the noodles and serve the meatballs over cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower.
- Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and serve over gluten-free noodles.
What to Serve with Swedish Meatballs
These creamy meatballs are a complete meal on their own, but they pair well with a few sides if you’re feeding a crowd:
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
- Buttered peas for a pop of color and freshness.
- Garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
- Mashed potatoes as an alternative to noodles.
Storage and Reheating
Have leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a saucepan over medium heat, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring often. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken meatballs?
Absolutely! Any kind of meatball will work – beef, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based.
Can I cook this on high?
Yes, you can cook it on HIGH for about 3-4 hours, but low and slow yields the most flavorful and tender meatballs.
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Definitely! Just make sure they are pre-cooked before adding them to the crockpot.
Do I have to use noodles?
Nope! You can serve these meatballs over rice, mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread.
Final Thoughts
These Crockpot Swedish Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food: creamy, savory, and super satisfying. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’re the perfect solution for a cozy dinner that doesn’t require standing over the stove. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
So grab your slow cooker and give this recipe a try—you just might find yourself making it again and again.
