Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Juicy Gluten-Free Stuffed Meatballs with Olives and BBQ Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 6 reviews

These Juicy Gluten-Free Meatballs are a delicious and simple main course option perfect for anyone avoiding gluten. Made from ground beef mixed with grated onion, gluten-free bread, garlic, BBQ sauce, Italian seasoning, and fresh dill, they are uniquely stuffed with green olives for an extra burst of flavor and a tender texture. Whether cooked in an air fryer or baked in the oven, these meatballs come out moist, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 meatballs

Ingredients

Meatball Mixture

  • 450 g ground beef
  • 55 g gluten-free white bread (about 1 ½ slices)
  • ½ onion, grated
  • 3 garlic cloves, grated
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Stuffed Filling

  • 25 green olives, pitted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions & Bread: Grate the onion finely and grate or finely chop the gluten-free bread into very small pieces so they incorporate easily and help bind the meatball mixture together.
  2. Prep the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, bread, grated garlic, BBQ sauce, Italian seasoning, fresh dill, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute all ingredients evenly.
  3. Shape the Meatballs: Line a tray with parchment paper. Using about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture, flatten it slightly in your hands, then place one pitted green olive in the center. Carefully roll the mixture around the olive to form a tight ball, ensuring the olive is sealed inside and no air pockets remain. If you prefer not to stuff your meatballs, simply roll the mixture into tight balls without olives.
  4. Chill: Place the shaped meatballs on the tray and chill in the freezer for 15 minutes or refrigerate for 2 hours. This helps the meatballs firm up so they hold together during cooking.
  5. Cook: Choose your preferred cooking method.
    • Air Fryer: Arrange meatballs in a single layer and air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 15 minutes.
    • Oven: Place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes; then increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes, flipping the meatballs halfway through. Ensure the meatballs are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Notes

  • You can skip stuffing the meatballs with olives if preferred and just roll them plain.
  • Using gluten-free white bread helps bind the mixture without gluten contamination.
  • Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps maintain their shape and juiciness.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
  • Serve with extra BBQ sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Gluten-free
  • Diet: Gluten Free