Let me tell you, this Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf recipe came about one chilly Tuesday evening when my kids were circling the kitchen like little sharks. The kind of night where you glance at the clock and realize dinner should’ve been on the table, like, fifteen minutes ago. My pantry looked like it had been raided by hungry raccoons, and I was down to the basics. Ground beef, a box of Stove Top stuffing I’d bought on sale ages ago, and some random condiments.
I figured, why not? Meatloaf was always a hit in my house, and stuffing? Well, my family devours that stuff at Thanksgiving like it’s their last meal. So, I tossed them together, whispered a little prayer to the dinner gods, and popped the whole mess in the oven. What came out was pure magic. A meatloaf so flavorful and moist, it was like Thanksgiving dinner and Sunday supper rolled into one delicious bite. Now, it’s become a regular request in my house. Plus, it’s so simple to make, I can throw it together even on the craziest of weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Ridiculously Easy To Make: Seriously, this recipe is a lifesaver on hectic weeknights. It’s a simple mix-dump-and-bake situation, which means less time cooking and more time putting out the never-ending fires of motherhood.
- Flavor Explosion: Thanks to the Stove Top stuffing mix, you’re getting a truckload of herbs and spices without having to measure out fifteen little jars. It’s basically like cheating, but in the most delicious way.
- Moist and Juicy Every Time: You know how some meatloaves end up dry and sad? Not this one. The stuffing mix helps lock in all that moisture, so every bite is tender and satisfying.
- Customizable to Your Heart’s Content: Prefer turkey over beef? Swap it out. Want to add some shredded cheese or sautéed onions? Go for it. This recipe is your canvas.
- Kid-Approved: If my picky eaters are cleaning their plates and asking for seconds, you know it’s a winner. And that’s a rare thing in my household.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This meatloaf somehow gets even better the next day. Slice it up for sandwiches, crumble it over a salad, or just heat it up and enjoy all over again.
Ingredients for the Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe
- 2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 box Stove Top stuffing mix (any flavor, but chicken or turkey works best)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch works great)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Cooking Instructions for the Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan lightly with nonstick spray or butter.
- Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Stove Top stuffing mix, eggs, milk, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined. Try not to overmix, or you’ll end up with a tough meatloaf.
- Shape and Place: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down gently to form an even shape.
- Top It Off: Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. You can also use barbecue sauce if you’re feeling fancy.
- Bake: Pop the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let It Rest: Once it’s done, let it sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those delicious juices right where they belong – inside your meatloaf.
Notes
- Use Turkey For a Leaner Option: If you’re watching your calories, swapping beef for turkey is a great option. It’s just as tasty, especially with the stuffing mix’s added flavor boost.
- Play With The Toppings: Ketchup is classic, but barbecue sauce or even a tangy tomato glaze can make things interesting. Get creative!
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prep the meatloaf mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for when you want to get a head start.
- Add Veggies For Extra Flavor: Diced onions, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots can sneak some veggies into the dish without anyone complaining.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or even a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Leftover Perfection: Crumble up leftover meatloaf into a skillet with scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast or slap a slice between two pieces of bread for an amazing sandwich.
Macronutrients Count Per Serving
Here’s a rough estimate of the macronutrient count per serving (assuming 8 servings from the recipe):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
Pro Tips for the Recipe
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can result in a tough, dense meatloaf, and nobody wants that.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid the heartbreak of an overcooked or undercooked meatloaf, use a meat thermometer. Your target temperature is 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for turkey.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and easier to cut.
- Add Cheese For Extra Flavor: Mixing in shredded cheddar or mozzarella adds a rich, gooey element that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
- Double The Recipe For Meal Prep: Make two loaves and freeze one for later. Perfect for those nights when cooking feels like a monumental task.
Let’s Dish! (Q & A Section)
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with this meatloaf?
A: Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, green beans, or even a simple side salad work beautifully. For something a little heartier, try mac and cheese.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Or, bake it and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also add finely chopped veggies like zucchini or carrots to sneak in some extra nutrition.
Q: What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or heat gently in a skillet for a little crispiness.
Q: Can I use a different stuffing mix flavor?
A: Yes! Feel free to experiment with flavors like cornbread or savory herb stuffing. They’ll each add their own unique twist to the meatloaf.
