The Best Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf You’ll Ever Try
Sometimes the best recipes come from a little kitchen experiment, and that’s exactly how I came up with this stovetop stuffing meatloaf.
I had a box of stuffing mix sitting in the pantry and some ground beef waiting to be used. Instead of making my usual plain meatloaf, I thought, “Why not try adding stuffing?”
The result? Pure magic—moist, flavorful, and super easy to make. If you’re tired of dry or boring meatloaf, this is the recipe you’ll love.
Why Use Stovetop Stuffing in Meatloaf?
The secret to this recipe is simple: stovetop stuffing isn’t just bread. It’s seasoned bread with herbs, spices, and flavor already packed in. When you add it to your meatloaf mix, it saves time and instantly boosts flavor. Plus, it keeps the meatloaf moist and soft without falling apart. You don’t need breadcrumbs or extra seasoning—the stuffing does the job perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need anything fancy for this recipe. Here’s all it takes:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey if you prefer)
- 1 box of stovetop stuffing mix (any flavor works, but savory herb is my favorite)
- 1 cup water or milk (to soften the stuffing)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion (chopped, optional but adds flavor)
- ½ cup ketchup (for the topping)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (mix with ketchup for a sweet glaze)
That’s it. Most of these are probably already in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
Add the stovetop stuffing mix to a large bowl. Pour in 1 cup of warm water or milk to soften it. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it’s fluffy.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
Add ground beef, eggs, and chopped onion to the stuffing. Use your hands (the best tool in the kitchen!) to gently mix everything. Don’t over-mix—just combine until it looks even.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. If you don’t have one, just shape it into a rectangle on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
Mix ketchup and brown sugar, then spread it evenly on top of the loaf. This caramelizes as it bakes, giving you that sweet, tangy finish.
Step 5: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50–60 minutes. Check the internal temperature—it should reach 160°F (71°C).
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Don’t skip the glaze – It keeps the top from drying out and adds amazing flavor.
- Let it rest – After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing so the juices don’t run out.
- Switch it up – Try using chicken stuffing mix with turkey or cornbread stuffing for a slightly sweet flavor.
What to Serve With Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf
This meatloaf pairs perfectly with classic comfort sides. Some of my favorites are:
- Mashed potatoes with gravy
- Green beans or roasted vegetables
- Mac and cheese
- A simple garden salad
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is everything a family dinner should be: easy, budget-friendly, and full of flavor. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a busy night. Plus, even picky eaters usually love it because the stuffing adds a cozy, familiar taste.
FAQs About Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix everything, shape the loaf, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Wrap the baked loaf tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Q: Do I have to use ground beef?
No. Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of beef and pork works great.
Q: What flavor of stuffing works best?
Savory herb is the most classic, but cornbread stuffing gives it a sweeter twist.
Q: My meatloaf fell apart—why?
Usually, it’s because it wasn’t mixed enough or didn’t rest before slicing. Make sure you let it sit after baking.
