Meatloaf Recipes with Stove Top Stuffing

A classic American comfort food gets a flavorful twist with the addition of Stove Top stuffing to traditional meatloaf recipes. This simple yet innovative approach transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary meal that even the pickiest eaters will love.

The history of meatloaf is deeply rooted in American cuisine, and the introduction of Stove Top stuffing mix has elevated this dish to new heights. By combining ground beef with the savory flavor of Stove Top stuffing, home cooks can create a moist and delicious recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Key Takeaways

• Stove Top stuffing adds moisture, texture, and flavor to traditional meatloaf.
• The simplicity of combining ground beef with stuffing mix makes for a quick dinner.
• This recipe has remained a family favorite since the 1970s.
• It’s a great way to elevate a classic American comfort food.
• Perfect for weeknight meals due to its ease and speed.

Why Stove Top Stuffing Makes the Best Meatloaf

Incorporating Stove Top stuffing into your meatloaf recipe elevates it to a whole new level of flavor and texture. The seasoned breadcrumbs in Stove Top stuffing create a perfectly moist texture while adding complex flavor profiles.

Using Stove Top stuffing mix significantly reduces prep time and complements the natural flavor of ground beef. It acts as an ideal binding agent, maintaining the loaf structure while keeping the texture tender, even with leaner ground beef options that may have less fat. This results in a moist and flavorful dish ready in minutes.

Classic Meatloaf Recipe with Stove Top Stuffing

For a classic comfort food dish, try our meatloaf recipe featuring Stove Top Stuffing. This meatloaf recipe combines the savory flavor of ground beef with the convenience of Stove Top Stuffing, creating a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious meatloaf, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Gather 2 pounds of ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for optimal moisture, one 6-ounce box of Stove Top stuffing mix, eggs, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Using lean ground beef is not recommended as it may result in a dry meatloaf.

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
• 1 box Stove Top stuffing mix (6 ounces)
• Eggs
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and preparing a baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the dry Stove Top stuffing mix with beef broth and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, add eggs and Worcestershire sauce to the mixture before incorporating the ground beef. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough texture.

Form the mixture into an even oval shape in the baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. To preheat oven to the correct temperature, ensure you’re using the right oven settings.

Tips for Perfect Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf

The secret to a mouth-watering Stove Top Stuffing meatloaf lies in a few simple yet crucial techniques. By following these expert tips, you can elevate your meatloaf game and create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Choosing the Right Ground Beef

Selecting the right ground beef is crucial for a perfect meatloaf. Opt for ground beef with a fat content between 80/20 and 85/15 for the ideal balance of flavor and moisture.

Mixing Techniques

Use your hands for mixing rather than utensils, as this provides better control and helps prevent overmixing that can lead to tough meatloaf. For a more uniform texture, consider processing the Stove Top Stuffing mix in a food processor before adding it to the mixture.

Proper Baking Methods

To ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly, form it into a consistent shape with even thickness throughout. Line your baking sheet with foil and apply cooking spray for easier cleanup. Consider using a meat thermometer to check when the internal temperature reaches 160°F, the safe temperature for ground beef.

Tip	Benefit
Use 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef	Balance of flavor and moisture
Mix with hands	Prevents overmixing
Process Stove Top Stuffing mix	Uniform texture
Use cooking spray on baking sheet	Easier cleanup

Delicious Gravy for Your Meatloaf

Elevate your Stove Top stuffing meatloaf with a rich, homemade gravy that’s surprisingly easy to make. A well-crafted gravy can enhance the flavors of your meatloaf and add a comforting touch to your meal.

Easy Homemade Gravy Recipe

To make a simple yet flavorful gravy, start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in 1 cup of beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of black pepper to taste. For a thicker gravy, use an extra tablespoon of flour in your roux.

Alternative Toppings and Glazes

While a classic gravy is always a winner, you can also experiment with various toppings and glazes to add a twist to your Stove Top stuffing meatloaf. Consider a ketchup glaze for a tangy, caramelized crust, or a BBQ sauce glaze for a smoky flavor. You can also mix ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar for a homestyle glaze that adds sweetness and acidity. Brush your chosen topping during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Topping/Glaze	Flavor Profile	Baking Time Adjustment
Ketchup Glaze	Tangy, Caramelized	Last 15 minutes
BBQ Sauce Glaze	Smoky, Sweet	Last 20 minutes
Homestyle Glaze	Sweet, Tangy	Last 15-20 minutes

Meatloaf Recipes with Stove Top Stuffing Variations

Elevate your dinner game with creative twists on the classic meatloaf recipe using Stove Top stuffing. By incorporating various ingredients, you can create a unique meatloaf that suits any taste.

Adding Vegetables and Herbs

Enhance your basic meatloaf recipe by adding finely diced vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Experiment with fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary to complement the seasonings in Stove Top stuffing.

Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

Create a cheese-stuffed variation by forming half the meat mixture into a base layer, adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, and covering with the remaining mixture. This adds a rich, gooey center to your meatloaf.

Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Transform the traditional loaf into individual mini meatloaf muffins by dividing the mixture among a muffin tin. This reduces baking time to approximately 20-25 minutes, with an internal temperature of 160°F. Perfect for a quick dinner, these mini meatloaves are both convenient and delicious.

Perfect Side Dishes to Serve with Your Meatloaf

To create a memorable meal, consider pairing your meatloaf with appropriate side dishes. The right accompaniments can enhance the overall flavor and texture of the meal.

Classic Pairings

Classic creamy mashed potatoes are an ideal match for meatloaf, as they provide a perfect base for soaking up delicious gravy. Traditional vegetable sides like green beans, peas and carrots, or corn also complement the dish well, creating a balanced meal reminiscent of Sunday family dinners. These options are timeless and pair well with lean ground beef meatloaf.

Creative Side Options

For a lower-carb alternative, consider cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables to complement the savory flavors of the meatloaf. You can also experiment with mac and cheese for a comforting side that appeals to both children and adults. A fresh garden salad with light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meatloaf, while sweet potato casserole or roasted sweet potatoes offer a slightly sweet contrast. These creative options can be stored alongside leftover meatloaf for easy reheating throughout the week or months.

Properly storing and reheating your Stove Top Stuffing meatloaf can make all the difference in enjoying a delicious meal twice. To achieve this, follow these guidelines to maintain its flavor and texture.

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftover meatloaf, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. This prevents condensation, which can make the meatloaf soggy. Refrigerate within 3-5 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing Methods

For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and then place them in freezer bags. Label the bags with the date to keep track of freshness, and use the oldest portions first. Frozen meatloaf can be stored for up to 3-6 months.

Best Reheating Techniques

When reheating, place slices in a covered baking dish with a tablespoon of beef broth or water to maintain moisture. Reheat in a 250°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For frozen slices, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the same low-temperature method.

FAQ

What is the best type of ground beef to use for a meatloaf with Stove Top stuffing?

For a classic meatloaf, it’s recommended to use lean ground beef with a fat content of around 85% to 90%. This will help keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from becoming too dense?

To avoid a dense meatloaf, make sure to mix the ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Also, don’t overbake the meatloaf – check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How do I achieve a crispy crust on my meatloaf?

To get a crispy crust, bake the meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and sprayed with cooking spray. You can also broil the meatloaf for a few minutes after baking to give it a nice browned crust.

Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze leftover meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw the meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator and bake it in the oven until heated through.

What are some creative ways to serve meatloaf?

You can serve meatloaf with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad. You can also use it as a sandwich filling or slice it thinly and serve it with gravy or a tangy sauce.