Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1hour
- Yield: 6servings
Description
This Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with savory stuffing mix to create a moist, flavorful meatloaf that’s perfect for dinner. Quick, easy, and customizable, this meatloaf makes a fantastic weeknight meal or special family dinner. Try adding cheese or using ground turkey for variety!
Ingredients
- 1 package of Stovetop stuffing mix
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 cup water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Stovetop stuffing mix, egg, water, chopped onion, ketchup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix all ingredients together until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and gently press it to shape it into a loaf.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Customizations: Add shredded cheese for a cheesy twist or use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 50min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf is a deliciously easy and flavorful dish. The combination of ground beef and stovetop stuffing creates a moist and savory meatloaf that’s a bit more exciting than your traditional recipe. The stuffing provides a perfect seasoning balance while keeping the meatloaf tender. It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights and makes great leftovers for lunch the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 package of Stovetop stuffing mix
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1 cup water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Stovetop stuffing mix, egg, water, chopped onion, ketchup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, pressing it down gently to shape it into a loaf.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Total Time: 1 hour (including prep and baking)
Variations
- Add cheese: Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the meat mixture for a cheesy twist.
- Use turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version of this recipe.
- Vegetarian: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative and vegetable broth in place of the water for a vegetarian version.
- Spices: Experiment with adding herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm up the entire meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of stuffing mix?
Yes, you can substitute the Stovetop stuffing mix with any other stuffing mix, though it might alter the flavor slightly. Make sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Can I freeze Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook.
What should I serve with this meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. For an extra side, consider serving some garlic bread or creamy mashed cauliflower.
Can I use ground chicken or pork instead of beef?
Yes, ground chicken or ground pork can be used as a substitute for ground beef. However, be mindful that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How long does it take to bake this meatloaf?
The meatloaf takes about 45-50 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C). Make sure to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
Can I make mini meatloafs instead of one large loaf?
Yes, you can form the mixture into smaller individual meatloafs, and they will cook faster, usually in about 25-30 minutes.
Can I skip the ketchup in the meatloaf mixture?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of ketchup, you can omit it or substitute it with BBQ sauce or tomato paste for a different flavor.
Conclusion
Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a family gathering. The stuffing adds a rich, savory element that makes this meatloaf extra moist and delicious. With easy-to-follow instructions and plenty of opportunities for customization, this is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy!
