How many calories are in Ikea veggie balls?

November 12, 2025 •

3 min read

Over one billion meatballs are sold at Ikea stores each year, and their HUVUDROLL veggie balls offer a popular, plant-based alternative for those seeking a vegetarian or vegan meal option. The question of how many calories are in Ikea veggie balls is a common one for health-conscious diners.

Quick Summary

A standard serving of 5 Ikea HUVUDROLL veggie balls contains approximately 220 calories, making them a lighter alternative to traditional meatballs. Made with a mix of vegetables, they offer a nutritious and satisfying meal component.

Key Points

Calories per serving: A standard 5-ball serving of HUVUDROLL veggie balls has about 220 calories.
Vegan-friendly: These veggie balls contain no animal ingredients, making them a suitable option for vegans and vegetarians.
Rich in vegetables: The balls are made with noticeable pieces of chickpeas, carrots, corn, kale, and peppers, contributing to their nutritional value.
Distinct from plant balls: Ikea's veggie balls differ from the pea protein-based plant balls, which are designed to mimic meat more closely.
Best preparation: For the lowest calories, prepare them by baking or microwaving instead of adding oil via pan-frying.
Nutrient benefits: They are a good source of fiber, and the included vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.

The Nutritional Profile of Ikea Veggie Balls

Ikea's HUVUDROLL veggie balls, a key offering in their Swedish Food Market and bistros, are made from a hearty mix of vegetables and plant-based ingredients. For many years, these have been the go-to option for vegetarian and vegan customers, or anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption. The nutritional information is a significant point of interest for those tracking their caloric intake.

According to nutritional data, a typical serving of five HUVUDROLL veggie balls contains around 220 calories. It is important to note that calorie counts can vary slightly depending on the specific product batch, serving size, and preparation method (for example, whether they are baked or pan-fried, or if served with sauces). The frozen Huvudroll Vegetable Balls sold in the grocery section may have slightly different values compared to those served in the restaurant, though they share the same core recipe.

Breaking Down the Calories and Macronutrients

Beyond just the calorie count, the macronutrient breakdown offers a fuller picture of the veggie balls' nutritional value. A five-ball serving provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein:

Protein: ~9 grams
Fat: ~14 grams
Carbohydrates: ~13 grams
Fiber: ~3 grams

This balance, along with the included vegetables, contributes to making the veggie balls a more nutrient-dense option than some other prepared foods. They also contain zero cholesterol and are free of animal products, making them suitable for vegan diets.

Veggie Balls vs. Plant Balls vs. Meatballs: A Comparison

Ikea offers a few different ball varieties, and understanding the differences is key for a nutritional comparison. The main varieties are the traditional Swedish meatballs (KÖTTBULLAR), the veggie balls (HUVUDROLL), and the newer plant balls (HUVUDROLL, but made with pea protein).


Feature	Veggie Balls (HUVUDROLL)	Plant Balls (HUVUDROLL)	Traditional Meatballs (KÖTTBULLAR)
Key Ingredients	Chickpeas, carrots, corn, kale, peppers	Pea protein, oats, potatoes, onion, apple	Beef and pork
Vegan/Vegetarian	Yes (Vegan)	Yes (Vegan)	No
Approx. Calories (per 5 balls)	220 kcal	~220-250 kcal	Significantly higher
Texture & Flavor	Vegetable-forward, softer, visible chunks of veggies	Meat-like taste and texture, juicy bite	Traditional meatball flavor and density

The veggie balls are a great option for those who enjoy a vegetable-forward flavor profile and want a product that is clearly full of plant-based goodness. The plant balls are specifically engineered to mimic the traditional meatball experience, making them ideal for people transitioning away from meat or for those who simply prefer that kind of texture. You can read more about the specific ingredients and nutritional information on IKEA's website for the HUVUDROLL veggie balls.

What Makes the Veggie Balls a Good Choice?

The ingredients in the veggie balls, such as chickpeas, kale, and corn, bring a range of health benefits to the table. This vegetable mix is a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health. Furthermore, kale is a vitamin powerhouse, providing vitamins A, C, and K, along with other essential minerals. The simple, natural ingredient list can also be a comfort to those who prefer less processed foods.

How to Enjoy Your Ikea Veggie Balls Healthily

To keep your meal as healthy as possible, consider your preparation method and what you serve them with. Baking or microwaving the veggie balls is generally a healthier option than pan-frying, as it avoids adding extra oil. Pairing them with a healthy, whole-food side dish will complete the meal nutritionally.

Classic style: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam, but opt for less cream or butter in the potatoes.
In a wrap: Use a whole-wheat wrap and fill with cut veggie balls, fresh salad greens, and a light dressing for a quick lunch.
Over salad: Slice them and top a large salad of mixed greens, quinoa, and other vegetables for a high-fiber, high-protein meal.
With pasta: Add them to a tomato-based sauce and serve with whole-wheat pasta for a wholesome, filling dinner.

Conclusion

Ikea veggie balls offer a delicious and relatively low-calorie vegetarian option for shoppers and diners. At approximately 220 calories for a 5-ball serving, they provide a lighter alternative to traditional meatballs while still delivering a satisfying flavor profile and a good dose of protein and fiber. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, the veggie balls are a solid choice. Just be sure to pay attention to serving sizes and preparation to get the most accurate calorie count for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Ikea's HUVUDROLL veggie balls are made without any animal ingredients, making them a suitable and tasty option for both vegetarians and vegans.

The main ingredients are vegetables including chickpeas, carrots, corn, red peppers, and kale, which gives them a distinct vegetable-forward flavor and texture.

Ikea's veggie balls are primarily made of vegetables like chickpeas and kale, while the plant balls are newer and use pea protein to create a texture and flavor profile that more closely resembles traditional meat.

The veggie balls are generally lower in calories and fat than the traditional Swedish meatballs, offering a lighter option for your meal.

No, the calorie count varies depending on the serving size. For example, a 5-ball serving has a different calorie count than a 9-ball serving, so it's important to check the packaging or menu for the specific portion.

According to some information, the ALLMENSRÄTTEN veggie meatballs (an older version or localized product) were suitable for coeliacs, but you should always check the current product packaging to confirm the gluten-free status of the HUVUDROLL veggie balls, especially for severe allergies.

Yes, frozen HUVUDROLL veggie balls can typically be purchased in the Swedish Food Market section of most Ikea stores, allowing you to prepare them at home.

As part of a balanced meal, the veggie balls are a healthy option. They are a good source of protein and fiber, though nutritional benefits depend on the overall dish and preparation method.