Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) with Cream Gravy
Quick answer
A medium portion of Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) with Cream Gravy (150 g) contains 368 kcal, with 11.6 g of net carbohydrates and 24 g of protein. Its glycemic index is 25 (Low) for how fast it raises blood sugar, while its glycemic load per portion is 2.9 (Low) for its actual effect.
- Carbs12.8 g13.8%
- Protein24 g26%
- Fat24.8 g60.2%
- Fibre1.2 g
Percentages of total energy (calories)
A Scandinavian favourite: beef meatballs gently seasoned with nutmeg and allspice in a rich Swedish cream gravy, high in protein and low in starch. The values here are for pure beef meatballs; note that the traditional Swedish recipe in restaurants and shops is often made with a mix of beef and pork.
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Their glycemic index and load are very low because the meat and sauce contain little carbohydrate, which suits stable glucose levels.
Best preparation methods
Serve them with roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash instead of large amounts of buttery mashed potatoes.
Important Nutritional Note
For people with diabetes or insulin resistance, it is always recommended to consider the total glycemic load (GL) of the meal rather than relying on the glycemic index alone.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (150 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 245 kcal | 367.5 kcal |
| Protein | 16 g | 24 g |
| Carbohydrate | 8.5 g | 12.8 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 7.7 g | 11.6 g |
| Fat | 16.5 g | 24.8 g |
| Dietary fibre | 0.8 g | 1.2 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
Among the foods in Meat, fish & eggs with a glycemic index (4), it ranks 1 (lowest first). This is one of the lowest-GI foods in its group.
Smart alternatives from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) with Cream Gravy good for weight loss?
It can fit a balanced plan with portion control: a 150 g portion gives 368 kcal, and what matters most is your total daily intake and the rest of the meal.
How does Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) with Cream Gravy affect blood sugar?
Its glycemic index is 25 (Low), a clinically reviewed estimate rather than a laboratory measurement. A typical 150 g portion has a glycemic load of 2.9 (Low), so the effect of this portion on blood sugar is limited.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) with Cream Gravy?
A typical 150 g portion of Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar) with Cream Gravy provides about 368 kcal, 24 g protein, 12.8 g carbohydrate, 24.8 g fat and 1.2 g fibre.
Read also
- Prediabetes: How to Stop the Train and Lower Your HbA1cGuide
- Gestational Diabetes Guide: Normal Levels and Foods to EatGuide
References & Scientific Sources
- The glycemic index of this food is a clinically reviewed estimate by the WiBo Health medical team, not a laboratory measurement from the International GI Tables (Atkinson 2021). GI bands (low ≤ 55 · medium 56–69 · high ≥ 70) follow: ISO 26642:2010. Food products — Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) and recommendation for food classification. International Organization for Standardization; 2010. www.iso.org/standard/43633.html
- Definition of available carbohydrate and glycemic load: FAO/WHO. Carbohydrates in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 66. Rome; 1998. www.fao.org/4/w8079e/w8079e00.htm
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.