Easy Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe

Growing up, meatloaf was always that dependable dinner that showed up on our table at least twice a month. You know the kind – mom’s classic recipe that never failed to bring everyone to the table. But sometimes you want something a little different without starting from scratch. That’s where this stuffing meatloaf comes in. I started making it when my kids were going through their picky eating phase, and guess what? It became our new family favorite.

The best part about this recipe is how it takes two comfort foods we all know and love – meatloaf and stovetop stuffing – and brings them together in the most natural way. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homey but don’t have time to measure out a dozen different seasonings. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that actually tastes better the next day, which means lunch is already sorted!

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For a juicy, flavorful meatloaf, you’ll want to choose ground beef with the right amount of fat content. An 80/20 blend (meaning 80% lean meat and 20% fat) is ideal for meatloaf since it provides enough fat to keep the meat moist during cooking without becoming greasy. While you could use leaner ground beef like 90/10, it might result in a drier final product. If you’re buying from the butcher counter, ask them to grind it fresh – this usually gives you the best flavor and texture. Just make sure your ground beef is well-chilled when you mix it with the other ingredients to help the meatloaf hold its shape.

Options for Substitutions

This easy meatloaf recipe can handle some ingredient swaps if you need them:

• Ground beef: You can use ground turkey or a mix of ground pork and beef for a different flavor. If using turkey, add an extra tablespoon of ketchup to keep it moist.
• Stovetop stuffing: This is pretty key to the recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use 1.5 cups of breadcrumbs mixed with 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning. The texture will be a bit different, but it’ll work!
• Eggs: For each egg, you can substitute 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 3 tablespoons of mayo. The texture might be slightly different but it’ll still hold together.
• Milk: Any type of milk works here – dairy or non-dairy. You can even use beef broth if you’re out of milk.
• Worcestershire sauce: Try soy sauce or even a splash of balsamic vinegar if you don’t have Worcestershire. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
• Onion: If you’re out of fresh onions, you can use 1 tablespoon of onion powder, or even some dried minced onion – just use 2 tablespoons and let it soak in the milk for 5 minutes first.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

The biggest challenge with meatloaf is overmixing the ingredients, which can lead to a dense, tough texture – instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined, using gentle folding motions with your hands. A common error is using lean ground beef, but an 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio gives you the best flavor and keeps your meatloaf moist throughout cooking. To prevent a dry result, avoid the temptation to cook at high temperatures – stick to 350°F and use a meat thermometer to check when the internal temperature reaches 160°F. For the most flavorful outcome, let your meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking, which allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing much easier.

What to Serve With Stuffing Meatloaf?

This hearty meatloaf calls for some classic comfort food sides that’ll make your meal complete! Creamy mashed potatoes are a natural choice – they’re perfect for soaking up any extra juices from the meatloaf. I like to add some green veggies to balance out the plate, like steamed broccoli, roasted green beans, or buttered peas. For a complete comfort food experience, you might want to include some honey-glazed carrots or corn on the cob. Keep in mind that since the meatloaf already has stuffing mixed in, you don’t need another starchy side dish – just stick with potatoes and veggies for a satisfying meal.

Storage Instructions

Keep Fresh: This stuffing meatloaf stays good in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. It’s actually one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or easy leftovers!

Freeze: You can freeze this meatloaf either whole or in individual slices – just wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep nicely for up to 3 months. Pro tip: slicing before freezing makes it super easy to grab just what you need for quick meals.

Reheat: To warm up your meatloaf, cover it with foil and pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For single slices, a minute or two in the microwave works great too. Just add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist while reheating.

Preparation Time	10-15 minutes
Cooking Time	45-60 minutes
Total Time	55-75 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Easy

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 1200-1400
• Protein: 100-110 g
• Fat: 70-80 g
• Carbohydrates: 80-90 g

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs. ground beef
• 3/4 bag of stovetop stuffing
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp. worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp. ketchup
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• Sprinkle of salt
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 cup milk

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the meatloaf mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 lbs.

of ground beef with 3/4 of a bag of stovetop stuffing mix, 1/2 cup finely diced onion, 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, a sprinkle of salt, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 cup milk.

Mix these ingredients gently until just combined.

Be careful not to overmix to ensure a tender meatloaf.

Step 3: Transfer to the Loaf Pan

Grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to form a level surface.

Step 4: Initial Baking

Place the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes.

This allows the meat to start cooking through and develop flavors.

Step 5: Prepare and Add the Topping

After 30 minutes of baking, prepare a simple topping by mixing together ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.

Spread this mixture evenly over the partly baked meatloaf for added flavor.

Step 6: Final Baking and Resting

Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15 to 30 minutes.

The time will depend on the amount of ground beef used and your oven.

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes.

This resting time helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

After resting, slice the meatloaf into 1-inch portions.

Serve and enjoy your delicious homemade meatloaf!