Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf That’s Juicy, Quick & Packed with Flavor
There’s something special about a recipe that feels like home. This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf is one of those dishes. I first made it on a rainy night when dinner needed to be easy, warm, and comforting. I grabbed what I had some ground beef and a box of stuffing and hoped for the best. That meal turned into a family favorite, and it hasn’t left our table since.
Hi, I’m Callie Brooks. I grew up in a small town where dinner meant more than just food. It was stories, laughs, and sometimes a little chaos. This meatloaf recipe brings all of that together in one humble loaf. It’s fast, affordable, and full of flavor. The best part? You don’t need breadcrumbs or a bunch of spices the stuffing mix takes care of it all.
In this post, I’ll show you how to make this meatloaf in just a few steps, answer common questions like “Can I use Stove Top Stuffing instead of breadcrumbs?” and share tips to make it perfect every time. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or cooking for yourself, this recipe is about to earn a regular spot on your meal plan.
Let’s get into it.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A juicy, flavorful Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf made with simple pantry ingredients and baked to perfection with a sweet ketchup glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef
- 1 box Stove Top stuffing mix (any flavor)
- 1 cup finely diced onion
- 2 eggs
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 1 Tbsp white vinegar
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, stuffing mix, onion, eggs, and milk until evenly combined.
3. Spray a loaf pan with nonstick spray. Pack in the meat mixture, then flip it onto the baking sheet and remove the pan.
4. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, mix ketchup and vinegar to make the glaze.
6. After 40 minutes, spread glaze over the top and return to the oven.
7. Bake an additional 10–30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
To freeze, wrap cooled loaf in foil, place in freezer bag, and freeze for up to 6 months.
To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F for 30–40 minutes and glaze during the last 10 minutes.
Cooking time may vary depending on your oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf is more than a shortcut it’s a full-flavored, foolproof dinner that fits busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. The stuffing mix gives it that seasoned, herby taste that normally takes a dozen pantry items to achieve.
Here’s what makes this a go-to:
- No breadcrumbs, no problem. The stuffing mix adds seasoning and structure in one scoop.
- Quick prep. Mix everything in one bowl no sautéing or soaking needed.
- Juicy every time. With the right mix of eggs and milk, the result is tender, never dry.
- Crispy edges. Baked on a sheet, not in a pan, for that perfect meatloaf crust.
- Kid and freezer-friendly. Make it once, serve it twice.
If you’re craving more no-fuss meals like this, check out this easy baked mac and cheese or my one-pot ground beef stroganoff.
Ingredients for Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
You only need a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients to make this hearty meatloaf. The stuffing mix already contains seasonings, which cuts down on prep and guesswork. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 and ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 box Stove Top stuffing mix (any flavor works)
- 1 cup finely diced onion (the smaller, the better)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
This combination brings savory depth from the stuffing, moisture from the milk and eggs, and a tangy sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully. If you like more kick, try adding a pinch of black pepper or a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
For another budget-friendly comfort meal, you might enjoy this beef and rice casserole recipe which also makes great leftovers.
How to Make Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray. This makes cleanup easier and keeps the loaf from sticking.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the lean ground beef, stuffing mix, finely chopped onion, eggs, and milk. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be evenly moist but not wet.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Lightly spray a loaf pan with nonstick spray, then press the meat mixture into the pan. Turn the pan upside down onto the prepared baking sheet and lift it away, leaving a free-standing loaf on the foil. This allows for better crust development during baking.
Place the loaf in the oven and bake uncovered for 40 minutes without the sauce. This gives the meat time to firm up and develop a slight crust.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
While the meatloaf bakes, stir together the ketchup and vinegar in a small bowl to make a simple, tangy glaze. After the initial 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze over the top.
Return it to the oven and bake for another 10 to 30 minutes. The meatloaf is ready when the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in moisture and keeps the meatloaf from falling apart.
Pair this with mashed potatoes or try it alongside this cheesy broccoli casserole for a well-rounded plate.
How to Serve Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
This meatloaf makes a cozy and complete main dish. Serve thick slices with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn. For a colorful plate, add green beans or roasted carrots. A drizzle of the ketchup glaze ties it all together beautifully.
Leftovers work just as well in sandwiches. Add a slice between toasted bread with mayo or mustard. A slice of cheddar melts perfectly over warm meatloaf for a hearty lunch.
Another popular pairing is this loaded mashed potato bake. Its rich flavor complements the simplicity of the meatloaf. For a lighter side, try this cucumber tomato salad to balance the meal.
How to Perfect Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
Get the texture right by mixing gently. Overmixing can make the loaf dense. Use your hands or a spatula to combine the ingredients just until everything holds together. Pack the meat mixture into the loaf pan lightly so it stays tender.
Flip the loaf out of the pan before baking. This method creates crisp edges all around. A sheet pan also lets heat circulate better than a closed loaf pan.
Glazing halfway through keeps the topping from burning. Spread it after the first 40 minutes so the sauce stays rich without overcooking. If you like extra glaze, double the sauce and serve the rest on the side.
Add flavor variations by switching the stuffing flavor. Chicken stuffing gives it a classic taste. Savory herb adds more depth. Try cornbread stuffing for a sweeter profile.
For more easy main dishes, check out this slow cooker pot roast or this easy ground turkey skillet that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using extra liquid. The stuffing mix already absorbs enough moisture from the eggs and milk. Adding broth or more milk can make the loaf soggy.
Do not skip the resting time. It allows the juices to settle. Cutting too soon may cause the slices to crumble and lose moisture.
Always check the temperature. The center should reach 160°F to be safe and juicy. Guessing can lead to dry or undercooked meat.
Do not bake in the loaf pan. It steams the meat instead of crisping it. Inverting it onto a baking sheet gives better results.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to five days. Let the loaf cool completely before wrapping it in foil or placing it in a sealed container. This helps preserve the texture and flavor.
To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for one to two minutes. If reheating a larger portion, use the oven. Wrap the meatloaf in foil and bake at 350°F for fifteen to twenty minutes or until heated through.
You can also freeze meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in foil and place it inside a freezer-safe bag. Press out as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date. It will keep well for up to six months.
To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F for thirty to forty minutes. Add fresh ketchup glaze during the last ten minutes of baking for the best taste. Frozen slices can also be microwaved for a quick meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Stove Top stuffing be used in meatloaf?
Yes, it works perfectly. The stuffing mix takes the place of breadcrumbs and seasoning. It adds flavor and binds the meat without extra ingredients.
Why is Stove Top stuffing banned in some countries?
Some countries restrict certain preservatives or additives found in processed foods. The reason is usually due to specific food safety laws, not because the product is harmful in small amounts. Always check local import guidelines.
How do you make meatloaf with stuffing mix?
Mix ground beef, stuffing mix, eggs, milk, and onions in a bowl. Form the mixture into a loaf and bake at 350°F. Add a ketchup glaze halfway through and continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Can I use Stove Top stuffing instead of breadcrumbs?
Yes, and many home cooks prefer it. Stuffing mix contains dried bread and seasoning, which saves time and enhances flavor. It helps hold the loaf together while adding herby notes throughout.
If you enjoy time-saving swaps like this, visit the recipe for easy instant pot chicken and stuffing for another crowd-pleasing dish that uses the same classic box.
Conclusion
This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf recipe brings together comfort, flavor, and simplicity in one hearty dish. With just a few pantry staples and no extra seasoning required, it becomes a dependable dinner that tastes like you worked all day on it. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven with creamy mashed potatoes or reheat it for sandwiches the next day, this meatloaf never disappoints.
I’ve made this recipe dozens of times in my kitchen just outside Asheville, and it still shows up when I want something nostalgic, easy, and full of soul. If you’re looking for a no-fuss meal that feels like home, this is it.
