Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that won't derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further than our recipe for 1 serving of Swedish meatballs with pasta! With only 470 calories, you can indulge in this classic dish without any guilt.
These meatballs are packed with flavor and protein, and when paired with pasta, make for a well-rounded and filling meal. But what about the nutritional breakdown? Our recipe provides 31 grams of protein, 50 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of fat. It's a great source of iron, vitamin B-12, and vitamin D.
In this article, we'll provide you with step-by-step instructions, variations, and tips to help you create the perfect batch of Swedish meatballs with pasta.
Ingredients
To make the Swedish meatballs, you'll need: 1/2 pound ground beef, 1/2 pound ground pork, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup finely chopped onion, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg. For the pasta, you'll need: 1 cup cooked pasta, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper to taste.
As previously mentioned, one serving of this dish provides 470 calories, 31 grams of protein, 50 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of fat. In addition, you'll get 3 grams of fiber, 3 grams of sugar, and 458 milligrams of sodium. While this isn't the lowest calorie meal option out there, it's definitely a filling and satisfying option that provides a good source of protein and other nutrients.
How to Prepare Swedish Meatballs With Pasta
1. In a large bowl, combine the beef, pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until thoroughly combined. 2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs (approximately 1 inch in diameter). 3. Heat a little bit of oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
Variations of Swedish Meatballs With Pasta
While our recipe is a classic Swedish meatball recipe, there are plenty of ways you can switch things up to suit your taste preferences. Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork for a leaner option, or experiment with different seasoning blends (think Italian seasoning or paprika). You can also swap out the pasta for a bed of greens or roasted vegetables to increase the nutrient density of the dish.
Health Benefits of Swedish Meatballs With Pasta
Aside from being a delicious and satisfying meal, Swedish meatballs with pasta also offers up some health benefits. As previously mentioned, this dish is a good source of iron, vitamin B-12, and vitamin D, all of which are important for maintaining overall health and wellness. In addition, the protein and carbohydrates in this dish make it a great post-workout meal option.
Tips for Making Swedish Meatballs With Pasta
- Be sure to not overmix the meatball mixture or the meatballs will become tough. - Use a mix of beef and pork for the best flavor. - When cooking the meatballs, be sure to not crowd the pan so that they can brown evenly.
Best Wines to Pair with Swedish Meatballs and Pasta
For a full-bodied wine that can stand up to the bold flavors of this dish, we recommend a red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah. However, if you prefer a white wine, a crisp Chardonnay would pair nicely as well. If you're not a wine drinker, a cold beer or sparkling water with a slice of lemon would also make a refreshing beverage choice.
Leftover Swedish Meatballs and Pasta Ideas
- Toss any leftover pasta with some olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh veggies for a light and refreshing pasta salad. You can also add some feta cheese or olives for an extra burst of flavor. - Use any leftover meatballs to create a hearty meatball sub. Top with some melted cheese, tomato sauce, and grilled onions for a flavor-packed sandwich.
Swedish Meatballs and Pasta Recipe for Kids
Kids love meatballs and pasta, so this dish is sure to be a hit with even the pickiest eaters. To make it more kid-friendly, try shaping the meatballs into fun shapes (like hearts or stars), or use small pasta shapes (like macaroni or mini wagon wheels). You can also sneak some extra veggies into the pasta sauce to up the nutrition factor.
Serving Suggestions for Swedish Meatballs and Pasta
To make this dish feel a little more fancy or special, we recommend serving it up in a nice big bowl or on a large platter family-style. Garnish the dish with some fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or even some sliced almonds for some added texture. You can also serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a more filling meal.
One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well. - Virginia Woolf
FAQs About Serving Swedish Meatballs With Pasta (470 calories)
1. What are Swedish meatballs?
Swedish meatballs are small, tender meatballs made with a combination of ground beef and ground pork. They can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, and are usually served with a creamy gravy.
2. How do I make Swedish meatballs?
To make Swedish meatballs, you will need ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and allspice. Mix all of the ingredients together in a large bowl, then shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs. Brown the meatballs in a skillet, then finish cooking them in a flavorful sauce or gravy.
3. What kind of pasta should I serve with Swedish meatballs?
Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with egg noodles, but you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, spaghetti, or fusilli are all good choices. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package directions before serving it with the meatballs.
4. How can I make this dish healthier?
If you want to make this dish healthier, you can use lean ground beef and turkey instead of pork, and bake the meatballs in the oven rather than frying them. You can also use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta to add some extra fiber to the dish.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Swedish meatballs and pasta ahead of time and then reheat them when you're ready to serve. Just store the meatballs and pasta separately in the refrigerator, and then reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop when you're ready to eat.