There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic meatloaf dinner, isn’t there? It’s a staple for a reason. But what if I told you there’s a simple trick to make it even better? This recipe for The Best Moist & Flavorful Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf uses a box of stuffing mix, which is a fantastic shortcut that packs in seasoning and helps keep the meatloaf incredibly juicy. Forget dry, bland meatloaf for good. This version is simple, delicious, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Using a boxed stuffing mix is one of those great kitchen hacks that saves time and guarantees a delicious outcome. All the breadcrumbs and savory herbs you need are right there in one package. It’s a straightforward recipe perfect for a weeknight family dinner, and the results are consistently amazing. Let’s get into what makes this one of the best stuffing recipes you’ll try.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy days. You get that classic, home-cooked meatloaf flavor without a long list of ingredients or complicated steps. The stuffing mix works wonders, acting as both a binder and the primary source of seasoning. It soaks up the moisture from the ground beef and water, ensuring every single slice is tender and packed with flavor. No more dry meatloaf!
It’s also incredibly reliable. Even if you’re new to cooking, this is one of those recipes that’s hard to mess up. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that requires minimal prep and uses pantry staples? This is one of those Stovetop Stuffing Recipes that goes beyond the holidays and becomes a year-round family favorite. It’s comforting, satisfying, and the ketchup glaze on top adds that perfect sweet and tangy finish.
Ingredients
This recipe relies on simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 lean works great)
- 1 box (6 oz) Stovetop Stuffing Mix, any brand or flavor
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup ketchup, divided
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but recommended)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat And Prep
First things first, let’s get that oven ready. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and either grease it well or line it with aluminum foil. Using foil is a great tip for making cleanup a breeze later on!
Step 2: Mix The Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, crack the two eggs and give them a quick whisk with a fork. Just enough to break up the yolks and get them slightly mixed. This helps them incorporate more evenly into the meat mixture.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Now it’s time to add everything else to the bowl with the eggs. Add the ground beef, the entire box of dry stuffing mix, the water, ¼ cup of the ketchup (save the other half for the topping), the dried minced onions, and the garlic powder if you’re using it. Don’t add any extra salt just yet; the stuffing mix is usually seasoned well enough on its own.
Step 4: Form The Loaf
Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients together. The key here is not to overmix! Just combine everything until the mixture starts to stick together. Overworking the meat can make the final meatloaf tough. Once mixed, transfer the meat to your prepared baking dish and form it into a loaf shape, about 2 inches thick.
Step 5: Add The Glaze And Bake
Take the remaining ¼ cup of ketchup and spread it in a thin, even layer over the top of the loaf. This will create that classic, slightly sweet glaze. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about one hour. The meatloaf is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F. If you like a thicker glaze, you can add a bit more ketchup during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Rest And Serve
This is a crucial step! Once you take the meatloaf out of the oven, let it rest in the baking dish for about 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, making it extra moist and flavorful when you slice into it. After resting, slice it up and serve warm.
How To Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, they are just as delicious the next day! To store them, allow the meatloaf to cool completely. You can either wrap the entire remaining loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or you can slice it and place the slices in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Leftover meatloaf is fantastic for making sandwiches! Just grab a couple of slices of your favorite bread, add a slice of cold meatloaf, a little mayo or extra ketchup, and you’ve got a seriously good lunch. You can also reheat slices gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a simple, delicious, and dependable meatloaf recipe that your whole family will enjoy. By using one of the most clever Boxed Stuffing Recipes Ideas, you get a consistently juicy and flavorful meal every time. This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf proves that you don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to create a comforting, homemade dinner. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and leaves them satisfied. Give it a try, and it might just become your new go-to Best Stuffing Recipe for meatloaf!
FAQ
Can I Use A Different Type Of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! While 80/20 ground beef gives a great balance of fat and flavor for a moist meatloaf, you can definitely substitute it. Ground turkey or ground chicken would work, but they are much leaner, so the meatloaf might be a bit drier. You could also try a mix of ground beef and ground pork for added richness.
What Flavor Of Stuffing Mix Works Best?
Honestly, almost any flavor works well, which makes this recipe so versatile! Classic chicken or savory herb stuffing mixes are popular choices. A cornbread stuffing mix would add a touch of sweetness, while a pork or turkey flavor would also be delicious. Feel free to experiment with your favorite kind.
Is It Necessary To Let The Meatloaf Rest Before Slicing?
Yes, I highly recommend it! Letting the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before you slice into it is very important. This short resting period allows the juices to settle back into the meat. If you slice it right away, all that flavorful moisture will run out onto the cutting board, and your meatloaf won’t be as juicy.
