Stove top stuffing meatloaf​

There’s something special about a good meatloaf. It’s a humble dish, yet when done right, it’s incredibly comforting and satisfying. For years, I stuck to the old-school breadcrumb version, and while it was good, something always felt missing sometimes it was too dry, other times it lacked depth of flavor.

Then, one night, with a hungry family and limited pantry ingredients, I decided to get creative. I swapped the usual breadcrumbs for a box of Stove Top stuffing mix sitting in my cabinet. I figured it had seasoning already mixed in, so why not give it a shot? What happened next was nothing short of a revelation.

The stuffing mix not only saved me from measuring out extra seasonings, but it also gave the meatloaf a perfectly tender texture moist but not mushy, hearty but not dense. It was better than any meatloaf I had made before. My family devoured it, and from that moment on, I never went back to the old way.

Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you. Whether you’re a meatloaf lover looking for an upgrade or a beginner searching for a foolproof recipe, this Stove Top stuffing meatloaf is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s

What Makes This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf Special?

A great meatloaf strikes the perfect balance between flavor, texture, and moisture. Too often, traditional recipes turn out dry, dense, or bland. That’s where Stove Top stuffing meatloaf shines it eliminates those common pitfalls while making the process incredibly easy.

A Built-In Flavor Booster

Unlike plain breadcrumbs, Stove Top stuffing mix comes pre-seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. This means you don’t have to worry about measuring out individual seasonings everything you need for a flavorful meatloaf is already in the mix. Whether you choose the chicken, turkey, or cornbread variety, the stuffing adds a depth of flavor that traditional meatloaf recipes often lack.

Looking for an even more flavor-packed meatloaf? Try this Smoked Meatloaf Recipe for a smoky twist!

Moisture Without the Guesswork

One of the biggest complaints about meatloaf is that it turns out too dry. The secret to a juicy, tender loaf is the right ratio of binding ingredients, and Stove Top stuffing mix does this perfectly. It absorbs just enough liquid to lock in moisture without making the loaf mushy. Plus, it holds the meat together beautifully, so there’s no risk of it crumbling when sliced.

Want more comforting meals with moist, flavorful ground beef? Check out this Hamburger Potato Casserole a great side dish to serve alongside your meatloaf!

Foolproof & Time-Saving

With this recipe, there’s no need to toast and crumble bread or measure out multiple seasonings. The stuffing mix does the heavy lifting, making this an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you want a no-fuss comfort meal.

A Family-Approved Favorite

The first time I made this, I wasn’t sure how my family would react. But after the first bite, they couldn’t stop raving about how flavorful and moist it was. Now, every time I make meatloaf, it’s the Stove Top stuffing meatloaf version no exceptions.

Key Ingredients

The beauty of Stove Top stuffing meatloaf lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. Let’s break them down:

Core Ingredients

• Ground beef (or turkey): Use an 80/20 blend for beef to ensure enough fat for moisture. Leaner meat works, but you may need to add extra moisture.
• Stove Top stuffing mix: The heart of this recipe! It acts as both the binder and the seasoning blend.
• Eggs: Essential for binding everything together and preventing the loaf from falling apart.
• Milk: Hydrates the stuffing mix and keeps the meatloaf tender. You can substitute with broth for added flavor.
• Ketchup or barbecue sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the meat’s juiciness.

Optional Additions

Want to customize your meatloaf? Here are a few optional add-ins:

• Diced onions or garlic: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness when cooked.
• Shredded cheese: A handful of cheddar or mozzarella melts into the meatloaf for extra richness.
• Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami flavor with a subtle tang.
• Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or oregano): Brings a fresh, aromatic touch.

How to Make Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

Now that we’ve covered why this recipe is a game-changer and broken down the key ingredients, let’s get into the step-by-step process. Making Stove Top stuffing meatloaf is incredibly easy, requiring minimal prep while delivering maximum flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before mixing everything together, it’s important to hydrate the stuffing mix properly. This ensures that the meatloaf turns out moist and holds together well.

1. In a large bowl, add 1 box of Stove Top stuffing mix.
2. Pour ¾ cup of milk (or broth) over the stuffing and let it sit for 5 minutes. This softens the stuffing, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the meat mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Mixture

Once the stuffing mix has absorbed the liquid, it’s time to combine the remaining ingredients.

1. Add 1½ pounds of ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option) to the bowl.
2. Crack in 2 large eggs, which will help bind everything together.
3. If you like extra flavor, mix in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
4. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until just combined be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
3. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the sheet (or into the loaf pan).
4. Spread ½ cup of ketchup (or barbecue sauce) over the top for a flavorful glaze.
5. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, preventing a dry texture.

My Best Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf Tips

A great meatloaf comes down to technique. Here are my best tips to ensure your Stove Top stuffing meatloaf turns out perfect every time.

Don’t Overmix the Meat

Overworking the meat mixture can result in a tough and dense meatloaf. Mix until just combined a little bit of texture is a good thing.

Use a Meat Thermometer

Instead of guessing if your meatloaf is done, use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This prevents overcooking, which can dry out the meat.

Let It Rest Before Slicing

Cutting into a meatloaf right out of the oven causes all the juices to run out, leaving you with a drier loaf. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes to lock in moisture.

Experiment with Different Stuffing Mix Flavors

The classic chicken stuffing mix works well, but you can switch it up with cornbread stuffing for a sweeter taste or herb-seasoned stuffing for a bolder flavor.

Make It Ahead for a Quick Meal

You can mix the ingredients and shape the meatloaf in advance. Store it in the fridge (uncooked) for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes dinner prep even easier.

Variations of Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

One of the best things about Stove Top stuffing meatloaf is how easily it can be customized. Whether you’re looking to add a bit of heat, lighten it up, or incorporate different flavors, there’s a variation to suit your taste.

Turkey Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

Looking for a leaner version? Swap the ground beef for ground turkey. Since turkey is lower in fat, it can sometimes turn out drier, but using Stove Top stuffing mix helps retain moisture. To enhance the flavor, add:

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil for extra juiciness
• ½ teaspoon of onion powder and garlic powder for depth
• A touch of Worcestershire sauce for a richer taste

This variation is perfect for those who prefer a lighter but still delicious meatloaf.

Cheesy Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

If you love a gooey, cheesy center, this version is for you. Simply:

1. Follow the original recipe, but before shaping the meatloaf, add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the middle.
2. Fold the meat over the cheese and seal the edges.
3. Bake as usual, and enjoy a melted cheese center in every bite.

For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle parmesan cheese on top before baking.

Love cheese and meat together? Try this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole for the ultimate comfort food mashup!

Spicy Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

If you like a little heat, spice up your meatloaf with:

• ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• ¼ cup of diced jalapeños for an extra kick

For a smoky twist, use chipotle powder instead of chili powder. Serve with a spicy ketchup glaze by mixing regular ketchup with a bit of hot sauce.

If you love bold flavors, you’ll also enjoy this Spicy Chicken Burger for a fiery alternative!

How to Serve Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

Once your Stove Top stuffing meatloaf is cooked to perfection, it’s time to think about how to serve it. The right sides and toppings can take this dish to the next level.

Best Side Dishes for Meatloaf

Pair your meatloaf with classic sides for a complete meal. Some favorites include:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they balance the richness of the meatloaf.
• Roasted vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add freshness and crunch.
• Mac and cheese: For a comforting, indulgent pairing.
• Glazed carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the savory meatloaf.

Toppings & Sauces

While the ketchup glaze is a classic choice, you can switch things up with:

• Brown gravy: For a more traditional, homestyle taste.
• Barbecue sauce: Adds a smoky, tangy kick.
• Honey mustard sauce: For a sweet and tangy contrast.

Leftover Meatloaf Ideas

If you have leftovers, don’t just reheat them transform them! Some creative ways to use leftover Stove Top stuffing meatloaf include:

• Meatloaf sandwiches: Serve slices on toasted bread with mayo and lettuce.
• Meatloaf hash: Chop it up and mix with diced potatoes for a hearty breakfast.
• Stuffed bell peppers: Crumble the meatloaf and mix it with rice to fill bell peppers.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

Even though Stove Top stuffing meatloaf is one of the easiest meatloaf recipes to make, a few common mistakes can affect the texture and flavor. Here’s how to avoid them.

Overmixing the Meat

One of the biggest mistakes people make when preparing meatloaf is overworking the mixture. Mixing too much compresses the ingredients, leading to a dense and tough loaf.

Fix: Mix the ingredients until just combined. Use a gentle hand and stop as soon as everything is evenly incorporated.

Dry Meatloaf

A dry meatloaf is disappointing. This usually happens when the meat is too lean or there isn’t enough moisture in the mixture.

Fix: Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for the best balance of fat and flavor. If using leaner meat like turkey, add an extra egg or a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Meatloaf Falling Apart

If your meatloaf crumbles when sliced, it likely needs more binding ingredients like eggs or stuffing mix.

Fix: Stick to the right ratio 1½ pounds of meat, 1 box of Stove Top stuffing mix, and 2 eggs. Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing also helps it hold together.

Uneven Cooking

A thick, dense meatloaf may cook unevenly, leading to an overcooked exterior and an undercooked center.

Fix: Shape the loaf evenly and use a meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160°F (71°C) before removing it from the oven.

FAQs About Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

Meatloaf can spark a lot of questions, especially when you’re using Stove Top stuffing mix instead of breadcrumbs. Here are answers to some of the most common questions.

Is meatloaf made with Stove Top stuffing good?

Absolutely! The pre-seasoned stuffing mix adds flavor and moisture, making this one of the easiest and tastiest meatloaf recipes.

Can I use Stove Top stuffing instead of breadcrumbs?

Yes, and it’s actually better. Stuffing mix already contains seasoning and binds the meatloaf perfectly. Just make sure to hydrate it with milk or broth before mixing.

Why use milk instead of water in meatloaf?

Milk helps soften the stuffing mix, creating a tender and moist meatloaf. Water works in a pinch, but milk adds extra richness.

What is the secret to moist meatloaf?

Using the right amount of moisture-rich ingredients like milk, eggs, and a good fat-to-meat ratio keeps meatloaf juicy. Avoid overbaking, and always let it rest before slicing.

Should you bake meatloaf covered or uncovered?

Bake it uncovered for a crispy top. If you prefer a softer texture, tent it loosely with foil for the first half of baking.

What should you not put in meatloaf?

Avoid using too many dry fillers like oatmeal or too many breadcrumbs, which can make the meatloaf dry and crumbly. Also, don’t skip the eggs they’re essential for binding the meat together.

Print