These easy Swedish recipes bring the best of Scandinavian flavors straight to your kitchen! From classic meatballs to crispy potato pancakes and indulgent desserts, these traditional dishes are sure to impress.
During my time in Sweden, I completely fell in love with the food.
From rich, spiced ginger cookies to delicate, nutty Semlor and tender meatballs with tangy lingonberry sauce, I was hooked from day one.
Luckily, my amazing Swedish friend, Susanna, introduced me to some incredible restaurants. We tried a mix of familiar dishes and others I could barely pronounce—but every bite was unforgettable.
One tradition I still hold onto? Fika! This Swedish “coffee and cake break” is practically a way of life, and trust me, I became a fan fast.
Whether you’re craving something sweet or want to shake up your dinner routine, this list of 25 Swedish recipes has plenty of delicious options to explore.
Smaklig måltid! Enjoy!
Contents
25. Healthy Homemade Swedish Meatballs Recipe
This is hands down the best keto Swedish meatballs recipe! Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are packed with flavor and smothered in the most incredible creamy gravy.
Swedish meatballs are the ultimate comfort food. Traditionally served over spaghetti or mashed potatoes, you can easily keep it keto by pairing them with zucchini noodles or creamy mashed cauliflower instead.
No matter how you serve them, they make for a hearty, satisfying meal the whole family will love.
The best part? They go from kitchen to table in under an hour but taste like you spent all day cooking!
Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it’s also budget-friendly and perfect for meal prep. It makes about 40 meatballs, so you’ll have plenty to feed a crowd—or stash some in the freezer for a quick, delicious meal later.
A must-try for any meatball lover!
24. Swedish Spinach Soup with Onion, Garlic, Rosemary, and Potatoes
With Sweden’s long, cold winters, it’s no surprise that Swedes love their soups. There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of comfort on a chilly, dark day!
At first, a soup made almost entirely from spinach might sound a little unusual, but trust me—this one is packed with flavor and totally satisfying.
Thanks to hearty potatoes, fragrant garlic, onion, and a touch of rosemary, this soup is both nourishing and filling. And let’s not forget the color—it’s a stunning, vibrant green that looks as amazing as it tastes!
23. Flavorful Potato and Anchovy Casserole (Jansson’s Temptation)
I’ve raved about my love for potatoes before, and dishes like this prove why they’re the ultimate side.
But this version? It’s on another level! I never would have thought to add anchovies to potatoes—especially with a creamy sauce—but trust me, it works.
As the dish bakes, the anchovies melt right into the sauce, leaving behind a subtle, savory saltiness that enhances every bite. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with unexpected flavor. If you’ve never tried it, you’re seriously missing out!
22. Amazing Traditional Swedish Saffron Buns (Lussekatter)
I’m pretty sure these buns make an appearance in every household during Christmas—they’re a total holiday staple!
Not only are they delicious, but they’re also so much fun to make. And the best part? No mixer needed!
I know saffron can be pricey, but trust me, there’s no real substitute. It gives these buns their signature golden color and delicate flavor, making them truly special.
The real fun begins when you start shaping the dough—the soft, fragrant dough practically comes alive in your hands. And here’s a little trick: soak your raisins in water before adding them to the buns.
This keeps them plump and prevents them from stealing moisture from the dough.
Warm, slightly sweet, and beautifully golden, these saffron buns are a must-bake for the holiday season!
21. Swedish Pastry Cheese Pie (Västerbottenostpaj)
Is it a cheese pie or a quiche? I’ll let you decide. Either way, it’s absolutely delicious!
This savory pie has everything I love—flaky, buttery pastry filled with an ultra-cheesy, creamy filling that’s just as good hot as it is cold.
To make sure the crust stays crisp, you’ll need to blind-bake it before adding the cheese mixture. I use parchment paper and dried beans to weigh it down, and it works like a charm!
Now, let’s talk about that filling—it’s loaded with three full cups of cheese, so you know it’s going to be rich and gooey.
It’s already pretty perfect, but feel free to tweak it to your taste. I personally love adding some sautéed onions and crispy bacon for an extra flavor boost. However you make it, this cheesy masterpiece is a guaranteed winner!
20. Easy and Tasty Braised Swedish Red Cabbage
Braised cabbage is a staple side dish across Europe, and most countries keep it pretty simple.
I love using red cabbage, not just for its bold flavor but for the gorgeous color—it brightens up any table! Plus, cabbage is super affordable and stretches a long way, making it a budget-friendly favorite.
The process starts like most cabbage recipes: gently sauté the shredded cabbage, then add vinegar, water, sugar, and salt to balance the flavors.
But here’s where things get exciting—right at the end of cooking, this recipe calls for red currant jelly and applesauce, giving it the perfect sweet-tangy finish. It’s a simple twist that makes all the difference, turning a humble side into something truly special!
19. High Protein Vegan Yellow Split Pea Soup
Packed with protein and easy on the wallet, this thick and hearty soup is the ultimate way to stay cozy during those long, chilly Swedish winters.
I love using yellow split peas because they have a mild, slightly sweet flavor—and unlike green split peas, they won’t turn that unappetizing grey color after cooking!
You can keep things simple with just carrots, onions, and a few warming spices, or make it even heartier by adding potatoes and leftover chicken. However you customize it, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl!
18. Traditional Swedish Glogg for Christmas
Mulled wine and Christmas just belong together, right? I love making a big batch and keeping it warm in the Crockpot—the longer it sits, the richer and more flavorful it gets!
In Europe, you’ll find Glögg everywhere during the holidays, and you can even grab a pre-made bottle from the store. But for me, nothing beats homemade. That way, I can tweak the spices just how I like—extra cinnamon and orange, please!
And if you really want to level up your Glögg, take a cue from Sweden and spike it with a splash of bourbon. Not a bourbon fan? A good spiced rum would be just as delicious. Either way, it’s the ultimate cozy holiday drink!
17. Make at Home Authentic Swedish Waffles Recipe
While you can make these in a regular waffle iron, I absolutely love the delicate, heart-shaped waffles you get from a Swedish waffle iron.
Since they’re thinner than classic waffles, they cook much faster. I personally like mine on the softer side, so I only let them cook for a few minutes.
Traditionally, they’re served with lingonberry jam, but if you’re in the mood for something different, Nutella is a fantastic swap!
One thing to note—this batter is much thinner than standard waffle batter, so pour it carefully and avoid overfilling the waffle iron. A little goes a long way, and trust me, these crispy, golden beauties are worth it!
16. Buttery and Sweet Thumbprint Cookies (Hallongrotta)
I’m pretty sure almost every country has its own version of these cookies—and for good reason! They’re buttery, sweet, and disappear way too fast in my house.
In Sweden, they’re called Hallongrotta, which translates to “raspberry cave”—a fitting name since they’re traditionally filled with raspberry jam. But hey, feel free to swap in your favorite jam flavor!
The secret to achieving that perfectly crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture? Don’t overmix the dough! Be gentle, handle it as little as possible, and you’ll end up with the most delicate, delicious cookies ever.
15. Pretty Swedish Cinnamon Rolls
Cardamom has a one-of-a-kind flavor—just the right amount adds a lovely fruity warmth, but too much can be overpowering.
In these cinnamon rolls, it works perfectly, bringing a subtle depth that pairs beautifully with the warm, spicy cinnamon.
And the best part? They’re finished with Swedish pearl sugar—tiny, crunchy sugar pearls that take these rolls to the next level. Once you try it, you’ll want to sprinkle it on everything!
14. Visiting Cake – Traditional Swedish Recipe
This light and flavorful cake is packed with bright lemon and nutty almond notes, making it the perfect treat for a fika with a friend.
Simple yet delicious, the batter comes together effortlessly and gets topped with sliced almonds and a sprinkle of sugar. As it bakes, the topping forms a delicate, crispy crust that adds the perfect touch of texture.
Serve it warm or cold—either way, it needs nothing more than a hot cup of coffee to make your break feel extra special!
13. Delicious Swedish Almond Tart
If you love frangipane or a classic Bakewell tart, this one’s definitely for you!
It starts with a buttery pastry base (store-bought works just fine!) filled with a sweet almond mixture that bakes into a soft, tender, and slightly spongy texture.
I personally like to add a thin layer of jam for a little extra moisture and a hint of tartness, but even without it, this tart is absolutely delicious. Simple, elegant, and perfect for any occasion!
12. Classic Swedish Semlor Buns
I’ve spent years trying to perfect these little beauties, and let me tell you—they are so worth it!
These soft, slightly sweet bread buns are lightly spiced with cardamom and filled with the most heavenly mixture of marzipan and whipped cream.
After spending many winters in Stockholm with a friend, I can confidently say that nothing screams Christmas quite like these powdered sugar-dusted buns.
The magic happens when you scoop out the center, mix the crumbs with grated marzipan, cream, and a splash of almond extract, and then pile on a generous swirl of whipped cream.
It’s indulgent, festive, and absolutely irresistible!
11. Traditional Christmas Rice Porridge (Risengrød or Risgrynsgröt)
Traditionally served at Christmas, the cook adds an almond to the pot, and then the person who finds it is said to be married the next year.
Any leftovers are usually served as breakfast the next day.
Jasmine is the best rice to use, and you can switch out the milk for coconut milk if you’re making it dairy-free.
10. Swedish Pancakes – Great Little Dessert
These are a lot like crepes—thin, sweet, and wonderfully delicate. They make the perfect little snack or dessert, especially when topped with something delicious!
If you have the time, let the batter rest in the fridge before cooking. This helps develop the flavor and gives you an even better texture. You can even prep it the night before to save time!
And for the ultimate Scandinavian touch? Serve them with a generous spoonful of lingonberry sauce. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart!
9. Crispy Tender Hasselback Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic
If you try one thing from this list, let it be this!
Originally from a small tavern in Sweden, these potatoes are the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—seriously addictive.
For the best texture, stick with russet or Idaho potatoes. They crisp up beautifully while staying fluffy in the middle.
This recipe calls for bacon grease, which I always save when cooking bacon—it’s pure gold! If you’re lucky, you might even find it in the chiller section of some European supermarkets.
No bacon grease? No problem! Rosemary and garlic-infused olive oil works just as well for an herby, aromatic twist. Either way, you need these potatoes in your life!
8. Try Swedish Lingonberry Sauce
My first experience with lingonberry sauce was when my friend served it with homemade Swedish meatballs—and yes, she made the sauce from scratch (respect!).
At first, I wasn’t sure about pairing sweet-tart berries with savory meatballs and rich, salty gravy. But wow, was I in for a surprise!
The balance of flavors was perfect—a little sweet, a little tangy, and just what the dish needed.
If you haven’t tried it yet, trust me on this one. Give it a shot—you might just find your new favorite combo!
7. Swedish Blueberry Soup for Breakfast
It took me a minute to wrap my head around this one, but if gazpacho is totally acceptable for lunch, then why not blueberry soup for breakfast?
The key to making this incredible? Wild blueberries. Their flavor is next-level, especially when paired with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, plus a touch of maple syrup for natural sweetness.
A little cornstarch thickens it up just right, and you can enjoy it hot or cold, depending on your mood (or the weather). It’s a unique and delicious way to start the day!
6. Swedish Rye Bread with Carrot (Limpa)
Like many European countries, the Swedes love their bread dark, hearty, and packed with deep, rich flavors.
But this recipe has a little twist—it leans slightly sweet! With molasses, caraway, fennel, anise seeds, and a hint of orange zest, it has a unique depth while still being versatile enough for sandwiches.
A fun Swedish touch? Adding grated carrot and toasted coconut on top! It brings a little sweetness and texture that makes this loaf even more special. Whether served plain, with butter, or as the base for an open-faced sandwich, this bread is a must-try!
5. Swedish Potato Pancakes with Garlic (Raggmunk)
These crispy potatoes are the perfect snack or side, whether paired with juicy chicken, tender meatballs, or just enjoyed on their own. Crunchy, salty, and totally addictive, they’re impossible to resist!
I love adding garlic for extra flavor, and honestly, I’ve even thrown in some bacon—because, well, bacon makes everything better.
For the crispiest results, always drain the potatoes well and squeeze out any excess moisture. This helps them fry up beautifully instead of steaming. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll be on repeat in your kitchen!
4. Decadent Swedish Apple Pie
This rich and comforting pie is almost like an apple cobbler—but even better!
Instead of rolling out a pastry crust, you’ll make a delicious topping and spoon it right over the apple filling. As it bakes, the juices from the apples seep into the topping, creating a beautifully golden, slightly crisp crust.
For the best texture, cut your apples into uniform pieces—go bigger for chunkier bites or smaller for a softer filling. And don’t be afraid to play around with the spices! I always add freshly grated nutmeg for an extra warm, cozy flavor.
3. Delicious Swedish Cream Recipe
This dessert is nothing short of a dream. If crème brûlée and panna cotta had a love child, this would be it!
It’s ultra-creamy, perfectly sweet, and silky smooth—just firm enough to scoop, especially with a spoonful of strawberry compote on top.
What makes this recipe unique? Sour cream! It adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully while also giving the custard a slightly denser, richer texture. It’s unexpected, but trust me—it works. One bite, and you’ll be hooked!
2. Pepparkakor – Swedish Ginger Cookies with Dark Corn Syrup
Usually enjoyed around the holidays but just as delightful year-round, these cookies have a deep, rich flavor thanks to dark corn syrup.
If you don’t have any on hand, molasses makes a great substitute—just keep in mind that it’ll slightly change the texture.
One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the addition of orange zest in the dough. It adds a subtle brightness that balances the warm spices perfectly.
And if you love an extra kick, try using freshly grated ginger for even more bold, spicy goodness. These cookies are simple, flavorful, and totally addictive!
1. Make at Home Ikea Swedish Meatball Recipe
I was so excited to watch my friend make homemade meatballs—because if there’s one place that knows how to do them right, it’s Sweden!
These aren’t just any meatballs. They’re a perfect blend of pork and beef, with the added goodness of potato and onion mixed right in.
And let’s not forget the rich, savory gravy, made even better with a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Talk about flavor-packed!
For the best crispy coating, toss the meatballs in a little flour before frying. It gives them that perfect golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Absolute perfection!
25 Delicious Traditional Swedish Recipes: Must-Try Swedish Dishes
Discover 25 mouthwatering traditional Swedish recipes, from classic meatballs to delightful desserts. Experience the essence of Swedish food right at home!
Ingredients
- Keto & Low Carb Swedish Meatballs
- Swedish Spinach Soup
- Swedish Potato and Anchovy Casserole (Jansson’s Temptation)
- Traditional Swedish Saffron Buns (Lussekatter)
- Swedish Cheese Pie (Västerbottenostpaj)
- Braised Swedish Red Cabbage
- Vegan Yellow Split Pea Soup
- Traditional Swedish Glogg
- Authentic Swedish Waffles Recipe
- Thumbprint Cookies (Hallongrotta)
- Swedish Cinnamon Rolls
- Swedish Visiting Cake
- Swedish Almond Tart
- Swedish Semlor Buns
- Rice Porridge (Risengrød or Risgrynsgröt)
- Swedish Pancakes
- Crispy Hasselback Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic
- Swedish Lingonberry Sauce
- Swedish Blueberry Soup
- Swedish Rye Bread (Limpa)
- Swedish Potato Pancakes (Raggmunk)
- Swedish Apple Pie
- Swedish Cream Recipe
- Pepparkakor (Swedish Ginger Cookies)
- Ikea Swedish Meatball Recipe
Instructions
- Choose any Traditional Swedish Recipes from the post that you like
- Click on the link below the photo to get the full recipes and instructions.
- Try the best Traditional Swedish Recipes and share your photo under my pin on Pinterest!
I’m Anastasia and I’m a full-time blogger, online entrepreneur, and Pinterest marketing strategist. I help digital entrepreneurs and bloggers drive targeted traffic from Pinterest either through my online courses or through Pinterest consultancy.