Dill Pickle Meatballs

Dill Pickle Meatballs are a unique and flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, incorporating the tangy and savory flavors of dill pickles. These meatballs are typically made with ground meat, chopped dill pickles, and other seasonings to create a delicious and interesting dish. They can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or a fun addition to a party platter.

Key Components:

1. Ground Meat: Usually beef, pork, or a combination of both. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used.

2. Dill Pickles: Chopped finely and mixed into the meatballs for a burst of tangy flavor.

3. Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs together and add texture.

4. Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.

5. Seasonings: Typically include garlic, onion, dill, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Benefits:

• Flavorful: The dill pickles add a unique tangy taste that sets these meatballs apart.

• Versatile: Can be served in various ways—over pasta, in a sandwich, as an appetizer, or with a dipping sauce.

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 lb ground pork

  • 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely chopped

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)

  • 1/4 cup pickle juice

  • 1 egg

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

  • 1/4 cup pickle juice

  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

   1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped pickles, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dill, pickle juice, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

   3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   1. In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, pickle juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Serve:

   1. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.

   2. Serve the meatballs with the dill pickle sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling over the top.

   3. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired.

Tips:

• For a low-carb version, substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

• These meatballs can be served as an appetizer, or as a main dish with a side of rice, pasta, or vegetables.

Enjoy your dill pickle meatballs!