Dill Pickle Meatloaf Recipe

Name: Dill Pickle Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: cooking spray; 1 large egg; 1 small onion, chopped; 0.5 cup dill pickle juice; 0.75 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 slice bread, torn into small pieces; 1 pound lean ground beef; 0.25 cup chopped dill pickles; 0.25 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 0.5 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

Cooking spray
1 large egg
1 small onion, chopped
cup dill pickle juice
teaspoon salt
teaspoon ground black pepper
1 slice bread, torn into small pieces
1 pound lean ground beef
cup chopped dill pickles
cup ketchup
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon brown sugar
teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a mixing bowl, beat the egg until well combined. Add the chopped onion, pickle juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine.
Stir in the torn bread pieces until they are thoroughly soaked in the mixture.
Mix in the ground beef and stir until everything is evenly combined.
Form the beef mixture into a loaf shape and transfer it to the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the chopped dill pickles, ketchup, water, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well mixed.
Pour the sauce mixture over the meatloaf, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160F (70C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 300
Total Fat: 16g (20% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 6g (31% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 124mg (41% Daily Value)
Sodium: 842mg (37% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 13g (5% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 8g
Protein: 26g (51% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 4mg (4% Daily Value)
Calcium: 38mg (3% Daily Value)
Iron: 3mg (16% Daily Value)
Potassium: 352mg (7% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

This Dill Pickle Meatloaf recipe is a fun and creative spin on the classic comfort food. By incorporating the tangy and bold flavor of dill pickles, this meatloaf takes on a unique twist that makes it stand out from traditional versions. The combination of juicy ground beef, zesty pickles, and a delicious glaze creates a savory and slightly tangy dish that is sure to surprise and delight your taste buds.

Origin of Dill Pickle Meatloaf

While meatloaf is an iconic American dish, the addition of pickles to the recipe is a more recent innovation. The idea of using dill pickles likely originated from the growing popularity of pickles as a side dish or garnish in the mid-20th century. As cooks began to experiment with new flavors and textures, the combination of pickles and beef became a flavorful pairing. This Dill Pickle Meatloaf is just one example of how pickles have been incorporated into various recipes, adding their distinct taste to classic comfort food.

Regional Variations

Meatloaf itself has many regional variations across the United States. In the North, especially in the Midwest, it is often served with mashed potatoes and gravy, while in the South, you may find it served with sides like collard greens or cornbread. The addition of dill pickles, however, is a more modern twist, often seen in households that enjoy experimenting with new flavor combinations. Some variations include adding different types of pickles or even other types of pickle juice to enhance the flavor profile further.

How it Differs from Other Meatloafs

What sets Dill Pickle Meatloaf apart from other meatloaf recipes is its use of dill pickle juice and chopped pickles in both the meat mixture and the glaze. This imparts a tangy, briny flavor that is not commonly found in more traditional meatloaf recipes. Most meatloafs rely on ingredients like ketchup, breadcrumbs, and Worcestershire sauce to provide moisture and flavor, but this recipes inclusion of pickles makes it stand out with a unique, zesty punch. Additionally, the glaze, made with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar, complements the tartness of the pickles with a subtle sweetness.

Where It's Typically Served

Dill Pickle Meatloaf is often served in casual family settings or at gatherings where comfort food is the star of the meal. Its a popular choice for weeknight dinners, as it is easy to make and feeds a crowd. Youll also find this variation at potlucks, picnics, or any event where people enjoy sharing hearty, satisfying meals. Its tangy twist on the classic meatloaf makes it a conversation starter and a memorable dish at any gathering.

Interesting Facts About Dill Pickles in Cuisine

Pickles have a long history in American cuisine. Originally, they were used as a preservative to extend the shelf life of vegetables, particularly cucumbers. Over time, they gained popularity as a snack and accompaniment to many dishes. Dill pickles, in particular, became synonymous with classic American fare, appearing in burgers, sandwiches, and even served alongside fried foods. The brine used in dill pickles, which typically includes vinegar, garlic, and dill, adds a sharpness that pairs well with fatty or savory dishes like meatloaf. Interestingly, dill pickles are also believed to aid in digestion due to their vinegar content, which can stimulate the production of stomach acid.

Conclusion

Dill Pickle Meatloaf is a flavorful and creative twist on the traditional meatloaf. It incorporates the briny tang of dill pickles, making it a unique dish that adds variety to your comfort food repertoire. Whether youre a pickle lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy meatloaf, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today for a hearty, tangy meal thats perfect for any occasion.

FAQ about Dill Pickle Meatloaf Recipe

Leftover Dill Pickle Meatloaf should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the meatloaf for longer storage; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

Yes, you can make Dill Pickle Meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare the meatloaf mixture and form it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This can help the flavors meld. If you prefer, you can also freeze the prepared meatloaf before baking and cook it later.

While dill pickles are the recommended choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of pickles, such as bread-and-butter or spicy pickles, to customize the flavor. Keep in mind that the sweetness or spiciness may alter the taste of the meatloaf.

If your meatloaf mixture is too wet, you can add more breadcrumbs or torn bread to help absorb the excess moisture. Alternatively, let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid before forming it into a loaf.

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

To keep your meatloaf moist, make sure you don't overcook it. An instant-read thermometer should read at least 160°F (70°C) in the center when it’s done. You can also cover the meatloaf with aluminum foil during the first part of baking to retain moisture, or add a bit of broth to the pan.

Yes, you can easily double this recipe. If you do, be sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F (70°C) in the center.

Dill Pickle Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. For a more comforting meal, serve it with some garlic bread or steamed green beans.

Yes, you can customize the glaze by substituting the ketchup with BBQ sauce or adding a touch of mustard or hot sauce for extra flavor. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste.

If your glaze is too runny, you can simmer it on the stove for a few minutes to reduce and thicken it. Alternatively, you can skip the water in the glaze recipe to create a thicker consistency.

Comments

Rhon

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I can dill pickles almost every year and thought I'd give this one a try. It is possibly the tastiest meatloaf I've ever made! I reduced the salt to 1/4 tsp.(plenty of salt in the pickle juice) and made an addition of 1/2 tsp. liquid smoke to the sauce recipie. Absloutely a delightful Meat loaf !!!!

John Young

04/18/2020 01:16:29 PM

I am not a fan of dill pickles but I thought I would try this just to try something different. It was really good. I did alter the recipe a couple of ways. I added some cheese because, well, I'm in Wisconsin, we put cheese in nearly everything. :) I also added some of the onion to the glaze with some mustard and mayonnaise for the flavors. I think that if I do this again, I would take the water out of the glaze as it was really thin. Oh, and when I bake a meatloaf, I always free form the loaf, place it on a sheet of aluminum foil that I crimp into a bowl so that I can pour water into the pan. This helps to ensure the meatloaf stays moist.

Bella

04/22/2017 05:32:53 PM

I doubled the recipe, used all organic ingredients, and added; 2 T. Mustard 2 T. Minced Garlic 1 C. Shredded Mexican-style Cheese I replaced bread slice to organic homemade French bread 2 thick sliced pieces I put half the meat mixture on the bottom of the casserole dish and shaped it to an oval, pressing a slight indentation up to half inch on the edges, added the cheese, and topped with remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges with my fingers. Lots of rave reviews!!!

Genia Hayes

04/13/2020 11:45:29 AM

Makes for an interesting meatloaf! I did one thing different, I added bacon to top of the loaf and the added pickle topping on in the last 15 minutes of cooking time.

imdogoflanders

03/25/2013 10:46:23 AM

This meatload is very tasty but way too salty! Adding pickle juice AND chopped pickles seems overkill. I think I will cut the pickle juice in half, and also use only 1/4 tsp salt. Also, I made this meatloaf in my microwave. It had too much liquid so I kept taking it out with a baster. After 16 minutes in my microwave (with carousel, so no need to turn...), and after removing lots of liquid with baster, I put it into my oven for ten minutes to brown/firm up the top. It really was very good, and I will definitely make it again. (Note: to the person who couldn't taste any pickle flavor, I used Claussen dill spears which produced a fresh, bright flavor.)

Majoretta Gallaher

07/12/2017 06:48:41 PM

I used ketchup and shedded cheddar cheese as a topper. After it cooked the last half hour I finished Lipton's fried onions.used same recipe 3 ingredients. Mashed potatoes.lined bottom of dish added green beans ( cooked balked in oven 350 for 25 minutes.

WileyP

12/08/2011 07:57:10 PM

I hope you don't mind if I review this recipe since I made it word for word as written. I know, it seems I'm supposed make substitutions or leave things out or add things to the recipe, but I did note a rare couple of folks below that made it as written, so I thought I might, too. This meatloaf does have an interesting and new twist to it. Like most meatloafs (meatloaves?) it is easy enough to assemble. CaraMeg does not mention that the mixture is very wet and requires some finesse to get it shaped and into the pan. The pickle juice in the mixture adds just a tounch of flavor to the loaf, but I think it needs just a little something more to tie it in with the creative and very good sauce. Maybe a tablespoon of tomato paste and another quarter cup of diced pickles would do it. The finished loaf turned out quite nice looking and firm enough to plate without falling apart. A good recipe, CaraMeg - Thanks for posting it!

Tn44magnum

06/30/2015 07:50:07 PM

I've made this as the recipe is stated and made some alterations as well. To the loaf mixture I like to add a dash of garlic powder, green Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire and about 1/3 cup of sweet Chow Chow. I also used breadcrumbs instead of bread because I usually have it on hand. I double the sauce as recommended by other reviewers. I ran out of ketchup by a few tablespoons the last time I made it and finished the amount with bbq sauce. I thought it might be strange, but it was actually delicious. Thanks for sharing this recipe. I love the pickles!

Emily Ajkic

05/13/2016 01:19:53 PM

I love dill pickles and I loved this meatloaf. The only changes I made were to leave out the onion (allergic), used prepackaged bread crumbs, and I put half my mixture down, dent in the center, fill the dent with American cheese and top it with the rest of the meat pinching to close it. A perfect tangy cheeseburger loaf.

Paul III

03/30/2023 01:37:31 AM

I used twice the onions and two pounds of ground beef. I also substituted the ketchup for Chipotle ketchup for a little zing. It was amazing.

DREGINEK

11/25/2022 12:50:27 AM

Pickles and beef have been an amazing pairing dating back to Minnie and Mickey! Followed as is but only added the sauce - per another reviewer, the last 10-15 minutes. In hindsight, would have added another slice of bread. While meatloafs are not always the most “attractive” thing on your dinner table, they are economical, easy to prepare and this one IS DELICIOUS! Would and will absolutely make again! Thanks CaraMeg!

LaDonna Langwell

03/30/2025 06:01:41 PM

This was fantastic! We did a tiny bit different spin on the glaze and I used breadcrumbs in my mix instead of bread. Was really, really flavorful. Keeperk!

Eric Carter

03/28/2025 01:21:49 AM

This is insane, I can’t get enough.

Cuppycakes

05/27/2024 04:00:26 AM

Tasted too much of pickles.

Janet Dee Cee

03/03/2024 02:08:40 PM

The original recipe came from a Family Circle Publication "Great Ground-Beef Recipes". Here is the original...

Jimmie Johnson

02/18/2024 02:02:27 PM

GREAT

SpeedyFish2567

11/30/2022 10:48:39 PM

Have made this recipe a few times now. Absolutely delicious. Has turned into a weekly thing around our house! This last time I tried leaving the water out of the glaze. Wasn't really much different just slightly thicker. Meatloaf always holds together well and tastes so good! Can't get over it. Thanks! Edit:Got asked to make this for a birthday party. Going to attempt doing a 3 lb meatloaf with this recipe in a couple of days! Excited to say the least 😁

DREGINEK

11/25/2022 12:50:27 AM

Lynne Bamford

04/06/2022 09:15:26 PM

Just the right mix of tangy and sweet. Loved the combination of taste. It will be the one I go to when I want a great meatloaf. Now I am not one to change a recipe but I did mix a little ground pork in because I had it and it tasted just fine.

MsLewie3-Nancy

09/03/2021 08:48:14 PM

Simple to make, great favor and everyone enjoyed it. I doubled the topping but otherwise made as directed.

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