Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

Why You’ll Love This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe

There’s something special about a Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf that takes you right back to childhood. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma and makes everyone at the dinner table smile. I still remember the first time I tried this recipe. It was a chilly Sunday evening, and my grandmother decided to switch things up by using Stove Top Stuffing instead of traditional breadcrumbs. The result? A meatloaf that was extra moist, packed with flavor, and so delicious that even the pickiest eaters went back for seconds!

This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf is not just a meal it’s a comforting hug on a plate. The stuffing mix adds the perfect blend of herbs and spices, eliminating the need for extra seasoning. Plus, it creates an amazing texture that keeps the meatloaf from drying out.

What Makes This Meatloaf Special?

Moist and flavorful – The stuffing mix locks in moisture and adds depth to the taste.
Super easy to make – No need to measure out tons of seasonings.
Crowd-pleaser – Even those who aren’t meatloaf fans will love this.
Perfect for leftovers – The flavors get even better the next day.

What is Stove Top Stuffing and Why Use it in Meatloaf?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about Stove Top Stuffing—the game-changing ingredient that makes this meatloaf irresistible.

What is Stove Top Stuffing?

Stove Top Stuffing is a pre-seasoned breadcrumb mixture made with dried bread cubes and a blend of herbs and spices. It was originally created for stuffing turkey, but home cooks quickly discovered its versatility in recipes like casseroles, meatballs, and, of course, meatloaf.

Why is Stove Top Stuffing Perfect for Meatloaf?

• Perfect seasoning – No need to add extra spices or herbs.
• Better texture – The stuffing mix absorbs moisture, preventing dry meatloaf.
• Saves time – Fewer ingredients mean quicker preparation.

Ingredients for Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

Let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf a standout dish.

Main Ingredients

• Ground beef – The base of the meatloaf, providing flavor and juiciness.
• Stove Top Stuffing mix – The magic ingredient that replaces breadcrumbs.
• Eggs – Helps bind everything together.
• Milk or water – Softens the stuffing for a moist texture.
• Ketchup – Adds a touch of sweetness and richness.
• Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the umami flavor.

Optional Toppings

• BBQ sauce – For a smoky, caramelized crust.
• Brown sugar glaze – Adds a slight sweetness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

How to Make Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf (Step-by-Step Guide)

Making Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf is incredibly easy, and the results are always delicious. Whether it’s your first time making meatloaf or you’re a seasoned cook, this guide will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor every single time.

Step 1: Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

The foundation of a great Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf starts with the right combination of ingredients.

1. Soften the stuffing mix – Place the Stove Top Stuffing mix into a large bowl. Pour in ½ cup of milk or water, stir gently, and let it sit for 5 minutes until the bread cubes absorb the liquid. This step ensures that your meatloaf stays moist and doesn’t dry out in the oven.
2. Add the ground beef – Use 2 pounds of ground beef (80/20 mix is best for flavor and juiciness) and add it to the bowl with the stuffing.
3. Crack in the eggs – Add 2 large eggs, which will act as a binder to hold the meatloaf together.
4. Add seasonings – Even though Stove Top Stuffing is pre-seasoned, a few extra ingredients bring out the best flavor:
   • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for depth
   • ½ teaspoon garlic powder for extra savoriness
   • ½ teaspoon black pepper
5. Mix everything together – Use clean hands or a spoon to gently combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to overmix—doing so can make the meatloaf dense and tough instead of tender.

Step 2: Forming and Baking the Meatloaf

Now that the mixture is ready, it’s time to shape and bake your Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf.

1. Preheat your oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and a nicely browned exterior.
2. Shape the meatloaf – Transfer the meat mixture to a lightly greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Add a topping – You can keep it classic with a ketchup glaze or experiment with different flavors:
   • Classic glaze – Mix ½ cup ketchup + 1 tablespoon brown sugar and spread it over the top.
   • BBQ twist – Use ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
   • Savory option – Brush with Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce for a rich, tangy crust.
4. Bake the meatloaf – Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Rest before slicing – Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before cutting. This helps retain the juices and prevents it from falling apart.

Step 3: Serving Suggestions

A Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf is a hearty dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Best Side Dishes for Meatloaf

✅ Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate comfort food combination
✅ Steamed Green Beans – Adds freshness and balance
✅ Roasted Carrots – Slightly sweet and caramelized
✅ Mac and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Even with a simple recipe like Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf, a few things can go wrong. Let’s troubleshoot some common issues:

Why is My Meatloaf Falling Apart?

Possible Causes:

• Not enough binding agents (eggs, stuffing mix)
• Overmixing the meat
• Cutting the meatloaf too soon after baking

Fix It:

• Make sure to use 2 eggs to bind the mixture properly
• Gently mix the ingredients instead of mashing them together
• Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing

How to Avoid a Dry Meatloaf

Possible Causes:

• Using lean beef (90/10 or higher) instead of 80/20
• Not enough liquid in the mixture
• Overbaking

Fix It:

• Use 80/20 ground beef for extra juiciness
• Add ½ cup of milk or water to soften the stuffing mix before mixing
• Cover loosely with foil during baking to lock in moisture

How Do I Know When Meatloaf is Done?

Check the internal temperature! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C) at the thickest part.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, take it out 30 minutes before to bring it to room temperature for even cooking.

How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

• Refrigerate: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Explore More Delicious Recipes

• Best Milk Substitutes for Meatloaf
• The Best Meatloaf Recipe with Lipton Onion Soup
• How to Prepare Onions for a Juicy, Flavorful Meatloaf

Final Thoughts on This Easy and Flavorful Meatloaf Recipe

This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf is one of the easiest and most flavorful meatloaf recipes you’ll ever make. With minimal prep, no extra seasoning needed, and a foolproof texture, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Simple Ingredients – No fancy seasonings required
Moist & Flavorful – Stove Top Stuffing guarantees a juicy, well-seasoned loaf
Crowd Favorite – Even picky eaters love this dish

If you’re looking for a no-fail, comfort food classic, this recipe is it. Try it tonight and let me know how it turns out!

“A great meatloaf isn’t just food it’s a family tradition passed down through generations!”

Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!

Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

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• Author: Rita
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf is a flavorful and moist meatloaf that combines seasoned stuffing mix with ground beef for the perfect texture It’s quick to prepare and makes an easy delicious dinner that everyone will love

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Ingredients

For the Meatloaf
2 pounds ground beef 80/20
1 box Stove Top Stuffing mix any flavor
½ cup milk or water
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze
½ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard optional

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F 190°C and grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper
In a large bowl mix the Stove Top Stuffing with milk or water and let it sit for 5 minutes until softened
Add the ground beef eggs Worcestershire sauce garlic powder and black pepper to the bowl with the stuffing mix
Gently combine the ingredients using clean hands or a spoon making sure not to overmix
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet
In a small bowl mix ketchup brown sugar and mustard then spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F 71°C
Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving

Notes

For extra moisture use ½ cup beef broth instead of milk or water
To add a smoky flavor replace ketchup with barbecue sauce in the glaze
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F 175°C for 10 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf easy meatloaf recipe stuffing mix meatloaf best homemade meatloaf