Stuffing Mix Meatloaf

This incredibly simple meatloaf transforms a box of Stove Top stuffing into a flavorful, juicy dinner that even picky eaters will devour. With just four inexpensive ingredients and minimal prep time, this budget-friendly meal delivers comfort food magic any night of the week.

Last month, I made this for a midweek family dinner, and my husband who normally views meatloaf as 'just okay' went back for seconds and thirds. The secret? The Stove Top stuffing mix brings pre-seasoned flavor and perfect texture in one convenient package.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

• Ground Beef: Higher fat content (80/20) works best in this recipe
• Stove Top Stuffing: Any flavor works, but Savory Herbs or Traditional Sage are particularly good
• Eggs: Help bind everything together and add moisture
• Water: Helps hydrate the stuffing mix for the perfect texture
• Ketchup: Creates a tangy, slightly sweet glaze

The magic happens when the Stove Top stuffing absorbs the meat juices during baking, creating a perfectly seasoned, moist meatloaf without any fussy ingredients or complicated steps.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F. This moderate temperature allows the meatloaf to cook through evenly without drying out or burning the outside.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, dry stuffing mix straight from the box (no need to prepare it first), eggs, water, and half of the ketchup. Mix until just combined - overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Form the Loaf

Transfer the mixture to a greased standard bread loaf pan. If you don't have a loaf pan, you can shape the mixture into a loaf on a foil-lined baking sheet. The foil edges should be folded up to contain the juices that will release during cooking.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

Spread the remaining ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This creates a tangy, caramelized glaze that adds flavor and helps seal in moisture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F when measured with a meat thermometer. If you don't have a thermometer, make a small cut in the center of the meatloaf to check for doneness.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

The meatloaf should be completely cooked through with no pink remaining. If the meatloaf isn't quite done, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a moister, more flavorful meatloaf.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Cut into generous slices and serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete comfort food meal.

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I learned the importance of using higher-fat ground beef after my first attempt with lean ground beef resulted in a slightly dry texture. The fat content makes a significant difference in the final juiciness of this simple recipe.

Budget-Friendly Meal Planning

This meatloaf exemplifies economical cooking, feeding a family of four for under $10. Ground beef is often on sale, and one box of Stove Top stretches a single pound into a substantial meal. For maximum savings, stock up on stuffing mix when it's on sale and freeze ground beef in one-pound portions. Paired with simple sides like mashed potatoes and frozen vegetables, this creates a complete, satisfying dinner that costs less than $2.50 per serving.

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Family-Friendly Adaptations

For households with varying preferences, this recipe offers simple customization opportunities. Picky eaters appreciate the familiar flavors without visible onions or vegetables. For more adventurous palates, mix in finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or add shredded cheese to the mixture. My children started enjoying meatloaf when I created a 'meatloaf cupcake' variation by baking individual portions in a muffin tin, topped with mashed potato 'frosting.'

Seasonal Serving Suggestions

This versatile meatloaf welcomes seasonal produce throughout the year. Summer brings opportunities for fresh corn salad or watermelon. Fall calls for roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts. Winter versions incorporate hearty root vegetables. Spring welcomes asparagus or fresh green salads. The adaptability keeps this dish exciting year-round while making use of what's available.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

For busy households, this recipe shines as a prepare-ahead solution. Mix and shape the raw meatloaf up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. For longer storage, form the raw mixture into a loaf, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

Chef's Essential Tips

• For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture
• Toast the loaf pan lightly before assembly if they're a day old
• Add a pinch of cayenne to the ketchup for a spicy kick
• For a firmer texture that slices more cleanly, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the meat mixture
• Let the meatloaf rest after baking for even juicier slices

I discovered these refinements over many iterations of this dish - particularly the Worcestershire sauce addition, which adds remarkable depth to the flavor profile without being identifiable as Worcestershire.

This elevated meatloaf has become my reliable go-to when I need a satisfying meal that satisfies everyone. The combination of convenience, flavor, and budget-friendliness creates something greater than the sum of its parts - a dish that feels indulgent while being surprisingly simple to prepare.

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This Stove Top Stuffing meatloaf proves that delicious, satisfying meals don't require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients - just a few smart shortcuts and the confidence to keep things deliciously simple.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of ground meat for this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or a mixture of ground meats works well. If using leaner meats, add a little extra moisture with more water or an extra egg.

→ Which flavor of Stove Top stuffing works best?

Any flavor works great! Chicken, savory herbs, and traditional sage are popular choices that complement the beef well.

→ Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix and shape the meatloaf up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it covered. Add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.

→ How do I know when my meatloaf is done cooking?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer - it should register 160°F in the center. If you don't have one, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the middle.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftover meatloaf?

Slice leftover meatloaf and reheat in a skillet with a little oil for crispy edges, or microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Leftover meatloaf also makes great sandwiches!