Introduction

Gather round, comfort food lovers! If you’re searching for an easy yet flavorful meal that your entire family will enjoy, look no further than Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf. This dish blends the heartiness of classic meatloaf with the flavorful convenience of pre-packaged stuffing, creating a juicy and satisfying dish with minimal effort.

With just a few simple ingredients, this meatloaf promises to deliver comforting flavors and textures that evoke memories of home-cooked meals. As it bakes, the aromas of seasoned stuffing and savory meat fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
Ground beef serves as the foundational protein in this meatloaf, providing richness and flavor. It keeps the meatloaf moist and tender while allowing the other ingredients to meld together beautifully for a delicious bite.
1 box Stove Top stuffing mix (6 ounces)
Stove Top stuffing mix not only adds flavor but also plays a crucial role in binding the meatloaf together. Its seasoned breadcrumbs absorb moisture while cooking, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meatloaf that’s packed with savory taste.
1 cup water or beef broth
Using water or beef broth enhances the flavor of the stuffing and helps to moisten the beef, ensuring the meatloaf does not dry out during baking. Beef broth, in particular, amps up the richness and umami tones in the dish.
1 small onion, finely chopped
Onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the meatloaf. When cooked, they become tender and aromatic, contributing to the overall savory profile that makes this dish comforting and satisfying.
1 egg
The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatloaf together as it cooks. It also adds moisture and richness, resulting in a tender and cohesive texture.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the meat and stuffing beautifully. It enhances the overall savory notes without being overpowering.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Worcestershire sauce introduces a tangy depth to the meatloaf, enhancing the umami flavors in the dish. Just a teaspoon adds complexity and keeps the flavor profile rich and inviting.
Salt and pepper to taste
Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing all the flavors in the meatloaf. They bring everything together, ensuring that each bite is seasoned perfectly and satisfying.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven is essential to ensure even cooking. Setting the right temperature allows the meatloaf to heat through perfectly, forming a nice crust on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. This step sets the stage for the brilliant texture you're looking for.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Stove Top stuffing mix, water or beef broth, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

Mixing the ingredients in a single bowl allows for even distribution of flavors throughout the meatloaf. The combination of the beef with the stuffing and seasonings ensures that each slice is bursting with flavor, and incorporating an egg helps to bind it all together for a satisfying texture.

Step 3: Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf. By mixing until everything is combined but still slightly crumbly, you maintain the tender texture that is the hallmark of a great meatloaf. Be gentle, and you’ll achieve that perfect balance.

Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

Shaping the mixture into a loaf and transferring it to a loaf pan helps maintain its form during cooking. The greasing prevents sticking and allows for easy removal after baking, ensuring you get beautiful, intact slices.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Baking for the right amount of time is crucial for food safety and texture. The internal temperature check ensures that the meatloaf is cooked through, and the exterior should be browned and slightly firm. Letting it reach 160°F guarantees a safely enjoyed meal.

Step 6: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, preventing them from escaping when cut. This step is essential to keep the meatloaf juicy and prevent it from crumbling. Patience here will reward you with ideal slices!

Step 7: Slice and serve warm, with your favorite sides.

Slicing the meatloaf after resting ensures clean cuts and enhances the presentation. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoying it warm allows the flavors to shine through!

Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf – Easy, Juicy, and Flavor-Packed Dinner step photo

Customize Your Stuffing Mixture

One of the most delightful aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the stuffing mix by adding in your favorite flavors, such as diced celery, bell peppers, or even chopped mushrooms. This level of personalization not only enhances the texture but allows you to create a truly unique dish every time you prepare it.

Make It a Meal with Tasty Sides

Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich gravy for a classic comfort meal. Alternatively, adding roasted vegetables or a fresh salad can brighten up the plate and balance the hearty meatloaf, making for a well-rounded dinner that everyone will love.

The Perfect Leftover Transformation

Leftover meatloaf is a treasure in itself. Slice it thin and make a hearty sandwich with your choice of bread, lettuce, and your favorite condiments for a satisfying lunch. You can also crumble the meatloaf into a pasta dish or a chili, transforming yesterday's meal into an exciting new creation without any hassle.

FAQs

What if my meatloaf turns out too dry?

If the meatloaf is too dry, it could be due to overcooking. To prevent this, ensure you monitor the internal temperature, and consider adding a splash of broth before baking. If it's baked, serve it with a topping of gravy for added moisture.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey may need a bit more moisture, so incorporating an extra egg or some added broth can help maintain juiciness.

How can I tell if my meatloaf is cooked through?

The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. When it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C), it’s ready to come out of the oven. Additionally, the meatloaf should feel firm to the touch and slightly spring back when pressed.

Can I substitute other stuffing mixes?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other flavors of stuffing mixes, such as chicken or herb varieties. Each will impart a different taste to your meatloaf, allowing you to switch things up based on your preferences or what's available.

What if my meatloaf mixture seems too thick?

If the mixture feels too thick to mold, consider adding a little more broth or water until it holds together but isn’t overly wet. This will ensure a moist texture without compromising the structure.

Can I bake this meatloaf in a different pan?

Yes, you can use different types of pans such as a parchment-lined baking sheet or even muffin tins for individual servings. Just keep in mind that baking times may vary based on the size and shape of the pan.

Conclusion

Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf brings a beautiful mingling of flavors to your table with very little effort, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Its delightful moisture and taste mean it will likely become a family favorite.

With its easy preparation and endless variation options, this meatloaf is a fantastic way to elevate your dinner routine. Whether served fresh or transformed into delectable leftovers, every bite is sure to deliver warmth and comfort.

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