Stuffing Meatloaf

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that’s full of flavor and absolutely crowd-pleasing, then Stuffing Meatloaf is your new go-to recipe. Imagine a delicious, savory meatloaf filled with seasoned stuffing mix—moist, tender, and just bursting with flavor in every bite. It’s a perfect twist on the classic meatloaf, adding that cozy stuffing element we all love. The best part? It’s so easy to make, and you probably already have most of the ingredients sitting in your kitchen.

This dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or even just a cozy evening at home. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be craving it over and over again. It’s hearty, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying, and you won’t believe how simple it is to make. Ready to dig in? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Stuffing Meatloaf

• Flavorful Twist on a Classic: Combining the savory goodness of meatloaf with the herbed stuffing mix creates the most delicious, comforting flavor.
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the stuffing mix, this meatloaf is wonderfully moist and tender with every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare—but it only takes a fraction of the time!
• Family-Friendly: This dish is perfect for all ages, and it’s guaranteed to please even picky eaters.
• Budget-Friendly: It uses everyday ingredients, so it’s easy on the wallet without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef: The base of our meatloaf, offering rich flavor and texture.
• 1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix: A flavorful stuffing mix that will keep the meatloaf moist and add extra seasoning and texture.
• 1 egg: Helps bind everything together and adds moisture.
• 1 cup milk: Adds to the richness and moistness of the meatloaf.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: A bit of onion for that savory depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that delicious garlicky aroma that fills the room.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds that savory, umami kick to the meatloaf.

For the Topping:

• ½ cup ketchup: The classic meatloaf topping that adds a sweet, tangy finish.
• 1 tbsp brown sugar: A hint of sweetness that balances out the ketchup.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing Mix

Start by preparing the stuffing mix according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves adding water and butter to the dry mix. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid, and set it aside.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, prepared stuffing mix, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into a greased loaf pan. Gently press it into the pan to form a loaf shape. You want it to be compact but not too packed.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and brown sugar. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will give the meatloaf a sweet and tangy glaze that’s simply irresistible.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). The topping should be bubbly and slightly caramelized.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 320
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrate: 24g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 18g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

How to Serve Stuffing Meatloaf

• With Mashed Potatoes: This classic pairing is perfect for a hearty, comforting meal. The creamy potatoes balance out the rich meatloaf.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, green beans, or broccoli are great options to serve alongside your meatloaf for some extra color and nutrition.
• With Gravy: Pour some savory brown gravy over the meatloaf for an extra touch of flavor. It’s especially good if you have mashed potatoes on the side.
• On a Sandwich: Leftovers? Turn them into a meatloaf sandwich with some lettuce, tomato, and a slice of cheese. Delicious!

Additional Tips

• Moisture Adjustments: If your stuffing mix seems dry, you can add a little extra milk to the mixture to ensure it stays moist while cooking.
• Add Vegetables: For an extra veggie boost, add chopped bell peppers or spinach to the meat mixture. This adds flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Lover’s Twist: For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheese between layers of the meatloaf mixture or add some to the topping for a melty, gooey finish.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey can be a bit drier, so you might need to adjust the moisture levels slightly.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf the night before and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to add extra baking time if it’s chilled.

Q3: Can I freeze this meatloaf?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual.

Q4: How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
A4: You’ll want to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 160°F (70°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Q5: Can I use a different stuffing mix?
A5: Yes! You can use any kind of stuffing mix you like—herbed, cornbread, or even a gluten-free version if you prefer.

Q6: How do I keep my meatloaf from being too dry?
A6: Make sure to use the right ratio of moisture—don’t skimp on the egg and milk. The stuffing mix also helps keep it moist, but adding a little extra ketchup or gravy can help too.

Q7: Can I make mini meatloafs?
A7: Yes! You can form smaller meatloafs and bake them in individual portions. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they’ll bake faster.

Q8: Can I add cheese to the stuffing mix?
A8: Yes, adding shredded cheese to the stuffing mix or as a topping is a great way to add flavor and richness to the meatloaf.

Q9: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A9: Yes! You can cook the meatloaf in a slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just make sure to cover it with foil to keep it from drying out.

Q10: How do I store leftovers?
A10: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

Stuffing Meatloaf is a fantastic twist on a classic comfort food that’s both satisfying and simple to make. The combination of hearty ground beef and seasoned stuffing gives you a dish that’s packed with flavor and texture. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want something warm and comforting. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your dinner rotation!

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