Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf

This Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf combines everything we love about hearty, classic meals into one simple recipe. The seasoned stuffing mix adds rich flavor and texture, while the beef stays moist and tender. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner, easy to prep and always satisfying.

Perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks, this dish brings comfort and flavor in every slice. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Plus, it reheats like a dream, making it great for leftovers or next-day sandwiches.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)

• 1 box Stovetop stuffing mix (any flavor)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup water or beef broth

• 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped onion or bell pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, dry stuffing mix, eggs, water or broth, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and optional chopped vegetables.

3. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined (using your hands or a spoon).

4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press down evenly.

5. Spread an extra layer of ketchup on top for a flavorful glaze.

6. Bake uncovered for 55–60 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 395 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Ultimate Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf: Comfort Food Made Easy

When it comes to hearty, nostalgic meals that bring the whole family together, few dishes do it quite like a classic meatloaf. Add a shortcut pantry favorite like Stovetop stuffing mix into the mix, and you’ve got a super simple, flavor-packed twist on a traditional dish that’s both satisfying and stress-free.

This Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf recipe is the epitome of cozy home cooking, minimal prep, budget-friendly ingredients, and layers of rich, savory flavor in every bite. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, and everything in between. Even better, it makes incredible leftovers, whether reheated or tucked into a sandwich the next day.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this version of meatloaf stand out, and why it should be the next addition to your meal rotation.

A New Spin on a Timeless Classic

Meatloaf has long been a staple in American kitchens. It emerged as a popular household meal during the Great Depression, offering a frugal way to stretch ground meat with breadcrumbs, oats, or crackers. Over the years, meatloaf evolved, with every generation putting their spin on it.

This recipe stands out by using boxed stuffing mix as a flavorful binder instead of plain breadcrumbs. Stovetop stuffing brings its own blend of herbs, seasonings, and dried vegetables that infuse the meatloaf with complexity, without requiring extra ingredients or steps.

Whether you’ve made dozens of meatloaves or this is your first, you’ll love how simple and flavorful this version is. It’s homey, comforting, and incredibly forgiving.

Key Ingredients & Why They Work

Let’s break down the few simple ingredients that make this dish shine:

• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal moisture and flavor. The fat content ensures the loaf stays tender and juicy during baking.

• Stovetop Stuffing Mix: The star of the show! This isn’t just a filler,it’s a flavor enhancer. The mix is already seasoned with herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley, plus a bit of onion and celery powder, saving you time while delivering that “slow-cooked” taste.

• Eggs: They act as the glue, binding the mixture together for that classic loaf shape.

• Ketchup: This adds tangy sweetness and moisture, plus forms the traditional glaze when brushed on top.

• Beef Broth or Water: Moistens the stuffing and helps everything blend together smoothly.

• Optional Add-ins: Finely chopped onions or bell peppers are a great way to sneak in vegetables or add texture. Some even like to toss in shredded carrots or a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a flavor twist.

Why Use Stuffing Mix in Meatloaf?

It’s more than just convenience. Here’s why boxed stuffing mix is a game-changer in meatloaf:

• Pre-seasoned: You don’t need to dig out your spice rack or chop extra herbs.

• Texture: It adds the perfect bite, soft, but never mushy.

• Flavor Depth: Stuffing mix has a savory, almost roasted flavor profile that mimics the richness of a holiday meal.

• Accessibility: Available at most supermarkets, stuffing mix is shelf-stable and inexpensive.

This one ingredient transforms a standard meatloaf into something truly crave-worthy, and your family will taste the difference.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ways to adapt it:

• Add Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for extra richness.

• Make it Spicy: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

• Switch Proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork, or a combo.

• Sweeten the Glaze: Blend ketchup with brown sugar or BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet topping.

• Low-Carb Version: Use a low-carb stuffing alternative or crushed pork rinds instead.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or looking to impress guests, this recipe can be tailored to suit almost any palate or dietary preference.

How to Serve Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf

Pairing this meatloaf with the right sides takes it from good to unforgettable. Here are some classic and modern ideas:

Classic Comfort:

• Mashed potatoes with brown gravy

• Buttered green beans or peas

• Buttery corn on the cob

• Classic dinner rolls

Lighter Options:

• Roasted carrots or brussels sprouts

• Steamed broccoli or cauliflower

• Garden salad with vinaigrette

• Cauliflower mash for a low-carb twist

Creative Ideas:

• Serve meatloaf slices on toasted sourdough as a sandwich with mustard and pickles

• Crumble leftovers into a meatloaf hash with potatoes and eggs

• Cube it and toss with pasta and marinara for a hearty bowl

Storage & Leftovers

One of the best parts about making a meatloaf this size is enjoying leftovers. Here’s how to make the most of them:

• Refrigerate: Store tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Gently warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C), covered with foil, or microwave individual portions.

Pro tip: Add a splash of broth or water before reheating to keep the meat moist.

Great for Meal Prep

This recipe is ideal for batch cooking. You can double the recipe, bake in two pans, and freeze one for future use. It also holds together beautifully for slicing, making it a perfect protein to prep in advance for lunches or weeknight dinners.

Portion out slices with a veggie and carb of your choice for a satisfying, balanced meal.

Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleaser

Kids love the familiar flavor and soft texture of this meatloaf, especially with a drizzle of ketchup or a cheesy topping. It’s also a great dish for potlucks, family gatherings, or any event where comfort food is the star. Since it’s easy to slice and serve, it feeds a crowd without fuss.

Bonus Tip: Use a Meat Thermometer

To ensure your meatloaf is cooked perfectly, use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature. You’re looking for 160°F (71°C). This ensures the beef is cooked through while remaining juicy and tender.

Conclusion

Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf is a brilliant blend of simplicity and comfort. It’s a recipe that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients or fancy techniques to make something truly delicious. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual get-together, this dish checks all the boxes, easy, budget-friendly, flavorful, and satisfying.

So, the next time you’re staring at a box of stuffing in your pantry, think outside the Thanksgiving box and whip up this meatloaf instead. It just might become your new favorite tradition.