Description
Discover the secret to a perfectly juicy, flavorful, and incredibly simple meatloaf! This recipe uses a box of stuffing mix instead of traditional breadcrumbs, a brilliant hack that guarantees a tender, well-seasoned result every time. Topped with a simple and tangy glaze, this Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf is the ultimate weeknight comfort food, delivering a classic, satisfying dinner with minimal effort.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 box (6 oz) Stovetop Stuffing Mix, any variety
2 large eggs
1/2 cup ketchup, divided
1 cup water
1 tablespoon dried minced onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup and a crispier crust.
Combine Wet Ingredients and Stuffing
In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, water, large eggs, 1/4 cup of ketchup, dried minced onions, and garlic powder (if using). Stir everything together and let the mixture sit for one minute to allow the stuffing to soften.
Add Beef and Shape Loaf
Add the ground beef to the bowl. Using your hands, mix gently until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan or baking sheet and shape it into a uniform loaf.
Glaze and Bake
Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf. Bake for 55-65 minutes. The meatloaf is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
Rest Before Serving
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist loaf that holds its shape.
Notes
Avoid Overmixing
For the most tender meatloaf, mix the ground beef with the other ingredients until they are just combined. Overworking the meat will result in a dense, tough texture.
Crispier Crust
For a better crust on all sides, shape the meatloaf and bake it on a foil-lined baking sheet instead of in a loaf pan.
Enhanced Glaze
For a tangier glaze, mix 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or apple cider vinegar into the ketchup before spreading it on top.
Make-Ahead Tip
You can assemble the loaf (without the glaze) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Just before baking, add the glaze and increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 485 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: meatloaf, stove top stuffing meatloaf, ground beef recipe, easy meatloaf, weeknight dinner, comfort food, simple meatloaf, juicy meatloaf