The creamy broth makes an ideal base for the soup.

Use a small ice cream or cookie scoop, if you have one, to portion the meatballs.

Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and browns, about 6 minutes.

a recipe photo of the Swedish Meatball Soup

Photo:Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall , Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

Transfer to a large bowl; let cool for 5 minutes.

Let the panko soak for 3 minutes.

Add ground beef; mix gently until well incorporated.

the ingredients to make the Swedish Meatball Soup

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall , Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

Refrigerate, uncovered, until slightly firm, about 20 minutes.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet.

a step to make the Swedish Meatball Soup

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall , Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

(Do not wipe the pot clean.)

Reduce heat to medium; add the remaining 2 tablespoons oil and the remaining 1 cup onion.

Add flour; cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute.

a step to make the Swedish Meatball Soup

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall , Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

Gradually stir in broth.

Return the seared meatballs to the pot.

Reduce heat to low; stir in cream.

a step to make the Swedish Meatball Soup

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall , Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

Top with parsley and serve.

To make ahead

Prepare meatballs through Step 2.

Wrap the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap; refrigerate for up to 2 days.

a step to make the Swedish Meatball Soup

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall , Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

Proceed with Step 3.

Refrigerate soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

a step to make the Swedish Meatball Soup

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall , Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless