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Easy Pickle-Stuffed Meatballs

Easy Pickle-Stuffed Meatballs

These Easy Pickle-Stuffed Meatballs are a tangy, juicy twist on a comfort classic! Each tender meatball hides a crunchy dill pickle center, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. Baked or pan-seared to golden perfection, they’re perfect as a fun appetizer, game-day snack, or dinner served with creamy mashed potatoes or a zesty dipping sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Appetizer, main dish, Party Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley optional
  • For the Filling:
  • 6 –8 small dill pickles or pickle slices patted dry
  • For Serving optional:
  • Pickle juice drizzle or dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet or skillet
  • Parchment paper (if baking)
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Spoon or small scoop

Method
 

  1. Preheat Oven
  2. Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Mix the Meatball Base
  4. In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  5. Stuff the Meatballs
  6. Take a small portion of the meat mixture, flatten it, place a pickle piece in the center, and wrap the meat around it. Roll into a ball.
  7. Bake or Cook
  8. To Bake: Arrange meatballs on a sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  9. To Pan-Sear: Heat oil in a skillet and cook over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
  10. Serve & Enjoy
  11. Drizzle with pickle juice or serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Use finely chopped pickles for a more even texture inside.
Try spicy pickles or sweet gherkins for flavor variations.
Double the recipe for parties — they disappear fast!
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or pickle slaw for a full meal.