There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of a freshly baked meatloaf wafting through the kitchen. This Stove Top stuffing meatloaf recipe takes a beloved classic to the next level by incorporating the rich flavors of seasoned stuffing mix. The result? A moist, flavorful dish that’s sure to win hearts around the dinner table.
The beauty of this meatloaf with Stove Top stuffing recipe lies in its simplicity. The pre-seasoned stuffing mix eliminates the need for multiple seasonings, while its texture keeps the loaf tender and cohesive. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, prepping meals for the week, or looking for an easy crowd-pleaser, this recipe delivers every time.
With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a flavor profile that screams nostalgia, this meatloaf is as practical as it is delicious. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive in!
Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes45
minutes280
kcalThis easy meatloaf with Stove Top stuffing recipe transforms a classic comfort dish into a flavorful masterpiece. Packed with seasoned breadcrumbs and savory spices, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 box Stove Top stuffing mix (any flavor)
1 cup water
2 large eggs
1/3 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
1/4 cup milk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions
- Preheat oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine Stove Top stuffing mix and water. Let sit for 3 minutes to soften. Add ground beef, eggs, ketchup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until evenly combined.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it firmly to form an even loaf shape.
- Add the topping: Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Cool and serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Stuffing Flavor: You can use any flavor of Stove Top stuffing mix, such as savory herb or cornbread, to customize the meatloaf.
- Lean Beef: Opt for 85% lean ground beef to ensure the meatloaf is moist but not overly greasy.
- Optional Glaze: For a sweeter topping, mix ketchup with a tablespoon of brown sugar and a teaspoon of mustard.
Tips for Perfect Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe
- Use the Right Pan: A loaf pan works best for shaping and cooking the meatloaf evenly. For a crispier exterior, bake it free-form on a lined baking sheet.
- Prevent Sticking: Grease your pan or use parchment paper to avoid any sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
- Even Baking: Pat the meatloaf mixture into an even shape to ensure it cooks uniformly.
- Moisture Balance: If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of milk or water; if too wet, mix in a handful of breadcrumbs.
- Ketchup Topping Hack: For extra caramelization, brush the ketchup topping on halfway through baking instead of at the start.
Recipe Variants
- Italian-Inspired Meatloaf: Use Stove Top Italian Herb stuffing mix and add grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Incorporate shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the meat mixture for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
- BBQ Meatloaf: Replace the ketchup with barbecue sauce in the mix and as a topping for a smoky twist.
- Vegetable-Loaded Meatloaf: Add finely diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to sneak in extra veggies.
- Turkey Meatloaf: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner, lighter option.
FAQ
Absolutely! You can use any stuffing mix flavor—herb, cornbread, or even turkey-flavored—for a customized taste.
The Stove Top stuffing mix already contains seasoning and binders, which help lock in moisture. Adding milk or broth and avoiding overbaking are also key.
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
You can use barbecue sauce, tomato paste mixed with brown sugar, or even chili sauce for a different flavor profile.
Yes! Assemble the meatloaf, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Love hearty, comforting recipes? Don’t miss our Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole! It’s the perfect side dish to pair with this Stove Top stuffing meatloaf recipe.
Nutrition Information (per serving – 1 slice):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Sugar: 3g
Health Benefits of the Stove Top stuffing meatloaf:
- High-Protein Content: With 16 grams of protein per serving, this meatloaf supports muscle growth and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Energy-Boosting Carbs: The Stove Top stuffing provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Nutrient-Rich Comfort Food: This dish contains essential nutrients like iron, Vitamin B12, and zinc, which are vital for energy production and immunity.
- Customizable for Dietary Needs: Easily modify the recipe to include leaner meats, lower-sodium stuffing, or additional vegetables for enhanced nutrition.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is ideal for batch cooking, providing a convenient, homemade alternative to processed meals.
Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food like a well-made meatloaf, and this Stove Top stuffing meatloaf recipe is a game-changer. The addition of seasoned stuffing mix brings convenience and bold flavor, transforming a traditional classic into a modern favorite.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for busy days, this recipe delivers on flavor, simplicity, and versatility. Plus, the ability to customize it with different meats, toppings, and mix-ins means you’ll never grow tired of this crowd-pleaser.
So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a slice of nostalgia and warmth. This dish is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of home.
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