If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the perfect blend of juicy meat and flavorful stuffing, look no further than The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing) Recipe. This unique twist on classic meatloaf elevates a simple weeknight dinner into something truly memorable, combining the savory taste of ground beef with the irresistible texture and seasoning of Stove Top Stuffing. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to create the signature moistness, flavor, and texture that makes this meatloaf so special. Together, they blend harmoniously to deliver a satisfying meal with minimal fuss.
- 1 pound ground beef: Use fresh, good-quality beef for a juicy, flavorful base.
- 1 box Stove Top Stuffing (any flavor): This adds both seasoning and a wonderful, tender texture that sets this meatloaf apart.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs act as a binder to keep the meatloaf together while adding richness.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: Half goes inside the mixture and the rest on top for that classic tangy finish.
- 1/2 cup water: Moistens the stuffing mix perfectly so that the meatloaf stays tender and doesn’t dry out.
How to Make The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s ready when your meatloaf mixture is shaped and seasoned. Preparing your cooking vessel early helps the meat cook evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, dry stuffing mix, eggs, water, and half of the ketchup. Be gentle with your mixing; stirring just enough to combine keeps the meat tender and prevents it from becoming dense or tough.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Once mixed, transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan for a classic shape or shape by hand on a foil-lined baking sheet for a crispier crust on the sides. This step gives your meatloaf a uniform shape and makes slicing a breeze.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Spread the remaining ketchup evenly on top of the loaf. This tangy glaze caramelizes while baking, creating a flavorful crust that’s the hallmark of a great meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your meatloaf for 45-50 minutes until the internal temperature hits 160°F. This ensures your meatloaf is fully cooked but still juicy, with all the flavors beautifully melded together.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout, so every slice is moist and delicious when served.
How to Serve The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing) Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives can add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up every bite of this hearty meatloaf.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots perfectly complement the savory flavors in this meatloaf, turning your meal into a full, satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve meatloaf sandwiches with melted cheddar and a smear of your favorite mustard or mayo on crusty rolls, or cut into meatloaf sliders for a casual party appetizer everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool leftover meatloaf to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days and is perfect for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave or in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through. Covering with foil when reheating in the oven helps prevent the meatloaf from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great in this recipe, though the cooking time may be slightly shorter due to the leaner meat. Just be sure to check the internal temperature for safety.
What Stove Top Stuffing flavor works best?
Any flavor will add delicious seasoning, but classic chicken or herb stuffing are especially popular for their complementary flavors in this meatloaf recipe.
Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients and shape the meatloaf the night before. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake fresh the next day for best results.
Is the ketchup topping necessary?
While optional, the ketchup topping adds a nice tangy glaze and caramelization that many consider a key element of classic meatloaf flavor and appearance.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The safest and most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meatloaf, and The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing) Recipe takes this classic favorite to the next level with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a cherished go-to that everyone asks for again and again. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become one of your favorite weeknight dinners too!
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The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic meatloaf recipe combines ground beef with the convenience and flavor of Stove Top Stuffing for an easy, delicious meal. Moist, savory, and topped with ketchup, it bakes to perfection in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight dinner choice.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 box Stove Top Stuffing (any flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup water
Topping
- 1/2 cup ketchup
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, dry Stove Top stuffing mix, eggs, water, and half of the ketchup. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatloaf.
- Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Add Topping: Spread the remaining ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful glaze.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring the meatloaf is fully cooked but still juicy.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Using Stove Top stuffing adds flavor and moisture, making the meatloaf tender.
- Checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer ensures safe doneness.
- Customize by adding chopped onion, garlic, or herbs to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
