This recipe is especially great if you’re on a budget. With just four main ingredients, you get a filling, home-cooked meal that can easily serve the whole family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to make this Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably higher fat content to retain moisture)
- 1 box of Stove Top Stuffing (any flavor, though the traditional chicken or herb-flavored works best)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed for consistency)
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor:
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves chopped garlic
- Shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
- BBQ sauce or chili sauce (as a substitute or mix-in with ketchup)
These optional ingredients can elevate the flavor of your meatloaf, giving it a personal twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the perfect temperature for cooking the meatloaf evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, dry Stove Top stuffing mix, eggs, water, and half of the ketchup. The stuffing mix should remain dry at this stage, as the juices from the beef and the added water will hydrate it during cooking.
If you’re using any optional ingredients like diced onion, garlic, or shredded cheese, add them in this step as well. Be sure to mix thoroughly so that all the flavors are well distributed.
Step 3: Form the Meatloaf
Grease a bread loaf pan or line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. If you’re using a sheet pan, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the center. This allows you to make the meatloaf without needing a specialized pan.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Spread the remaining ketchup (or BBQ/chili sauce) evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a sweet and tangy glaze that balances the savory flavors of the meat.
Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can cut into the middle to check for doneness—there should be no pink in the center.
Step 6: Let It Rest
After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender meatloaf.
Tips for the Perfect Meatloaf
While this recipe is simple, there are a few tips that can take your Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf to the next level:
- Choose higher-fat ground beef: A fattier beef will release more juices, which the stuffing will absorb, keeping the meatloaf moist and tender. If you prefer lean ground beef, consider adding a splash of water or milk to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
- Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Doing so can result in a dense, tough meatloaf. Mix just until everything is incorporated.
- Customize with herbs and spices: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten the flavor of the meatloaf. You can also experiment with spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for added depth.
- Rest before slicing: Letting the meatloaf rest is crucial for maintaining its moisture. Cutting into it too soon can cause the juices to run out, leaving you with a dry slice of meat.
Serving Suggestions for Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a versatile dish, and there are endless possibilities for what to serve alongside it. Here are a few classic side dishes that pair perfectly with this comforting meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the quintessential side dish for meatloaf. Their rich, buttery flavor complements the savory meatloaf perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the meatloaf with roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty, healthy side.
- Gravy: A simple beef or brown gravy can be drizzled over the meatloaf and mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
Reheating Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), reheating the meatloaf properly is key to preserving its flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F. Place the leftover slices in a shallow dish and pour about a tablespoon of beef broth over each slice (optional). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- In a Skillet: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the meatloaf slices for about 4 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even heating.
Freezing Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
This meatloaf recipe freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Here’s how to freeze and reheat your meatloaf:
- Freezing: Slice the meatloaf into individual portions and wrap each one in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating from Frozen: To reheat, defrost the slices overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F, and bake the meatloaf slices (still wrapped in foil) for 18-25 minutes until heated through.
Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf is the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and delicious family dinner. With only a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight dinner idea or a classic comfort food recipe, this meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy it fresh, freeze the leftovers, and serve with your favorite sides for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
