A Comforting Classic: Meatloaf with Stovetop Stuffing

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has been loved for generations. Its hearty, satisfying nature makes it a go-to dinner for families, and it’s the kind of dish that always feels like a warm embrace. But if you’re looking to take your meatloaf to the next level, there’s a clever twist that adds flavor, moisture, and texture: Stovetop Stuffing.

This version of meatloaf is a little different from the traditional recipe. By adding dry stuffing mix, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also ensuring a tender, juicy result. The stuffing absorbs some of the meat’s juices during baking, adding depth and a slight seasoning that elevates the whole dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping a meal for the week, or just craving a comfort food favorite, this meatloaf with Stovetop Stuffing is a sure-fire winner.

Here’s everything you need to know to make this scrumptious meal:

The Ingredients: Simplicity with a Twist

To make this delicious meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef: This is the main protein of the dish. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative, but ground beef is classic and delivers that rich flavor we all love.
• 1 (6 oz) box of stuffing mix: This is the star of the recipe. You want to use any flavor of stuffing mix except for the cornbread variety. The dry mix will infuse the meatloaf with a savory, herbaceous flavor while keeping it tender. Whether you use traditional, savory herb, or chicken-flavored stuffing, the result is the same: a juicy and flavorful loaf.
• 2 eggs: Eggs help bind all of the ingredients together, ensuring your meatloaf holds its shape during baking.
• 1/2 cup water: This adds moisture to the meat mixture, helping the stuffing absorb the flavors and giving your meatloaf its tender texture.
• 1/2 cup ketchup: A classic topping for meatloaf, ketchup adds both sweetness and a little tang. You can also substitute it with BBQ sauce or any sauce you prefer for a unique flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic and onion powder: These two seasonings are a must-have in meatloaf, enhancing the overall flavor with their savory and aromatic profiles.
• A splash of Worcestershire sauce: This ingredient is optional, but it adds a deeper umami flavor to your meatloaf that rounds out the taste beautifully.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: You can adjust the seasoning to your preference. Salt brings out the flavors, while pepper adds a little warmth.

The Method: A Simple, Step-by-Step Process

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s preheated and ready for your meatloaf to bake.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, dry stuffing mix, eggs, water, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the stuffing is evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture. The stuffing acts as a binder, helping hold everything together and keeping the meatloaf moist as it cooks.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Once your ingredients are well-mixed, transfer the mixture to a broiler pan or a baking dish. Shape it into a loaf, ensuring it’s compact so it cooks evenly. Using a broiler pan is ideal because it allows any excess grease to drip away, preventing the meatloaf from becoming greasy while cooking.
4. Add the Topping: Brush the top of the meatloaf with a generous layer of ketchup or any other topping you like. Some people opt for a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, while others use a mixture of brown sugar and mustard for a caramelized finish. The topping adds a lovely layer of flavor and a glossy finish.
5. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your meatloaf, so you can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for a fully cooked meatloaf.
6. Rest Before Serving: Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions: Versatility in Every Bite

While this meatloaf is delicious on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. You could serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

For a comforting dinner, consider adding some creamy mac and cheese or buttery corn on the side. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach would be a perfect complement to balance the richness of the meatloaf.

Why This Meatloaf with Stovetop Stuffing Is a Winner

1. Flavorful and Moist: The addition of Stovetop Stuffing keeps the meatloaf moist while infusing it with herby, savory flavors. This ensures that every bite is tender and delicious.
2. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, this meatloaf is a convenient choice for a busy weeknight meal.
3. Customizable: You can easily switch up the flavor of the stuffing or add extra ingredients like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded cheese for a personal twist.
4. Family-Friendly: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it a great choice for family dinners. Kids especially love it, thanks to the soft texture and flavorful meat.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Lean Ground Beef: If you’re concerned about the fat content, opt for lean ground beef (90% lean or higher). Just be aware that it might need a little extra moisture to ensure it stays juicy.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Simply shape the loaf and bake the next day for a quick dinner.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different sauces or toppings. A mixture of ketchup and brown sugar creates a caramelized glaze, while BBQ sauce gives a smoky, tangy flavor.

Conclusion

This Meatloaf with Stovetop Stuffing is more than just a simple dinner—it’s a satisfying and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights or when you need a crowd-pleasing dish. The unique addition of stuffing mix not only elevates the flavor but also keeps the meatloaf incredibly moist. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that will quickly become a staple in your family’s meal rotation. Whether served with your favorite sides or enjoyed on its own, this meatloaf is a comforting classic that brings joy to the dinner table.

Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite in so many homes!