100 g of Swedish meatballs has 220 calories. It contains 11.2 g of carbs, 13.5 g of protein, 13.5 g of fat and 1.1 g of fiber. Its 1.1 µg of B12 covers 46% of the Daily Value. Its glycemic index is 45 (low), so it raises blood sugar slowly.

What is Swedish meatballs?

Swedish meatballs are small, browned meatballs traditionally made with a mixture of beef and pork, breadcrumbs, onion, egg and spices. In Sweden they’re often served with a creamy gravy, mashed potatoes and tart-sweet lingonberry jam. Their tender centre and savoury, lightly spiced crust make the contrast with the smooth potatoes and sharp berries part of the appeal.

They work as a hearty main meal, whether enjoyed in Sweden or made at home elsewhere, and pair well with peas or a crisp salad. They provide protein, while the gravy and usual sides add richness and carbohydrates. For a lighter plate, use less gravy and balance the potatoes and meatballs with extra vegetables.

Swedish meatballs Nutrition Facts

Selected: 100 g

220

KCAL / 100G

Carbs

11.2g

· 4% DV

Protein

13.5g

· 27% DV

Fat

13.5g

· 17% DV

Fiber

1.1g

· 4% DV

DV is the share of the daily value covered, on a 2,000 kcal reference diet.

Calories come from: Carbs 20% · Protein 25% · Fat 55%

Swedish meatballs Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamins

B12

1.1µg · 46% DV

3.1mg · 19% DV

Biotin

4.5µg · 15% DV

0.18mg · 14% DV

Minerals

Selenium

11µg · 20% DV

Phosphorus

140mg · 20% DV

Zinc

2mg · 18% DV

Sodium

420mg · 18% DV

How Nutritious Is Swedish meatballs?

Nutrient density

Medium

45/ 100

How many vitamins, minerals and how much fiber this food carries per calorie. A high score means a lot of nutrition for few calories.

Satiety score

Medium

44/ 100

An EatBetter score computed from fiber, protein and calorie density. A high score means staying full longer on the same calories.

Both scores are calculated per 100 g and do not change with the selected portion. The satiety score is EatBetter's own calculation, not a clinical measure.

Swedish meatballs Glycemic Index

GLYCEMIC INDEX

Low

0 Low5570100

GLYCEMIC LOAD

Low

Accounts for portion size — a more realistic measure than GI alone.

How to Burn Off Swedish meatballs

To burn the 220 calories in 100 g:

🚶

54min

Walking (5 km/h)

🏃

22min

Running (8 km/h)

🚴

30min

Cycling

🏊

26min

Swimming

Times are calculated with the MET equation for a 70 kg adult. Actual burn varies with your weight, age and pace.

Is Swedish meatballs Processed?

NOVA 3

Processed

1. Unprocessed

2. Minimally Processed

3. Processed

4. Ultra-Processed

NOVA classifies foods into 4 groups by industrial processing. NOVA 1 (unprocessed) is the healthiest.

Does Swedish meatballs Contain Allergens?

Contains these allergens:

Gluten yes

Dairy yes

Eggs yes

Peanuts free

Tree nuts free

Fish free

Soy free

Sesame free

Which Diets Is Swedish meatballs Good For?

Vegan

— Not suitable

Vegetarian

— Not suitable

Gluten-Free

— Not suitable

Dairy-Free

— Not suitable

Mediterranean

✓ Suitable

Paleo

— Not suitable

Whole30

— Not suitable

DASH

— Not suitable

Keto

— Not suitable

Low FODMAP

— Not suitable

Swedish meatballs Fat Profile

SATURATED

5.1g

MONOUNSATURATED

5.7g

POLYUNSATURATED

1.1g

⚖️

Omega 6:3 ratio 3.6:1

Below the ideal 4:1 — a good omega balance.

Compare Swedish meatballs

🥩vs🥩

Swedish meatballs vs Ground Beef30 kcal fewer per 100 g

→🥩vs🍢

Swedish meatballs vs Chicken Skewer80 kcal more per 100 g

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Swedish meatballs vs Sauteed Lamb10 kcal fewer per 100 g

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Swedish meatballs vs Smoked Turkey110 kcal more per 100 g

→

Foods Similar to Swedish meatballs

🥩

Ground Beef

250 kcal

🍢

Chicken Skewer

140 kcal

🥩

Sauteed Lamb

230 kcal

🍗

Smoked Turkey

110 kcal

🥩

Beef Kavurma

230 kcal

🍆🍖

Meatballs with Eggplant Purée

155 kcal

🥩

Beef Cubed

250 kcal

🍗

Chicken (Sauteed)

165 kcal

Frequently Asked Questions About Swedish meatballs

What are Swedish meatballs made of?

Swedish meatballs are commonly made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, and seasonings. The mixture is shaped into small balls and browned, then often served with a creamy gravy.

What do you serve with Swedish meatballs?

Swedish meatballs are traditionally served with mashed or boiled potatoes, creamy gravy, and lingonberry jam. Pickled cucumber is another common accompaniment, adding a crisp, tart contrast to the rich sauce and meat.

How are Swedish meatballs different from Italian meatballs?

Swedish meatballs are usually smaller and served with creamy gravy, potatoes, and lingonberry jam. Italian-style meatballs are often larger, seasoned differently, and served with tomato sauce, commonly alongside pasta.

How do you make the creamy sauce for Swedish meatballs?

The creamy sauce for Swedish meatballs is typically made in the pan used to brown them. Stir in stock and cream, loosening the browned bits, and simmer until the sauce thickens; some recipes use a little flour.

Are Swedish meatballs actually Swedish?

Yes, Swedish meatballs are a well-known dish in Sweden, where they are called köttbullar. Their familiar traditional accompaniments are creamy gravy, potatoes, and tart lingonberry jam.

Why is lingonberry jam served with Swedish meatballs?

Lingonberry jam gives Swedish meatballs a sweet-tart contrast to their savory meat and rich creamy gravy. It is usually served on the side, so diners can add as much as they like to each bite.

Are IKEA Swedish meatballs the same as homemade Swedish meatballs?

IKEA Swedish meatballs are a convenient prepared version of the dish, while homemade ones can vary in meat blend, seasoning, texture, and sauce. The familiar pairing with gravy, potatoes, and lingonberry jam is common to both.

Can you make Swedish meatballs without pork?

Yes, Swedish meatballs can be made with all beef instead of a beef-and-pork mixture. The result may be a little leaner or firmer, so avoid overmixing and overcooking to help keep the meatballs tender.

How long do cooked Swedish meatballs keep in the refrigerator?

Cooked Swedish meatballs keep for about 3–4 days in a covered container in the refrigerator. Refrigerate leftovers promptly, and reheat the meatballs and gravy thoroughly before serving.

Can Swedish meatballs be frozen with the gravy?

Yes, Swedish meatballs can be frozen with their gravy in an airtight container. The cream sauce may separate slightly after thawing, so reheat it gently and stir until smooth; thaw the dish in the refrigerator first.

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Nutrition data compiled from USDA FoodData Central and scientific sources.

· Last updated: September 24, 2026