Name: The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 box Stove Top Stuffing (any flavor); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/2 cup water

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The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing) is a simple yet satisfying dish that your family will adore! Perfect for any weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is all about comfort food. With just four affordable ingredients, you’ll whip up a meatloaf that’s juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Enjoy the delightful combination of ground beef and stuffing that makes this meal truly stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Spend less than five minutes mixing ingredients and let the oven do the work.
Budget-Friendly: This recipe uses affordable ingredients, making it perfect for family meals without breaking the bank.
Versatile Flavor Options: Customize with different flavors of Stove Top stuffing or sauces for a unique twist each time.
Easy Cleanup: Use a loaf pan or foil-lined baking sheet for hassle-free cleanup after dinner.
Family Favorite: The tender texture and rich flavor make it a hit with both kids and adults!

Tools and Preparation

To make The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing), you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure your meatloaf turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Loaf pan
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

Loaf pan: Helps shape the meatloaf evenly, ensuring it cooks uniformly.
Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your meatloaf.

Ingredients

A quick and easy ground beef dinner recipe your family will love! This budget meal takes less than 5 minutes to prepare, and then the oven does all the work for you. No fussy steps or exotic ingredients here, just 4 cheap ingredients needed to make the best meatloaf, ever!

For the Meatloaf

1 pound ground beef
1 box Stove Top Stuffing (any flavor)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup water

How to Make The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the ground beef, dry stuffing mix, eggs, water, and HALF of the ketchup.
2. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Prepare Your Pan

Grease your loaf pan with cooking spray or oil.
Transfer the mixture into the greased pan. If using a baking sheet, form a loaf shape on a foil-lined surface.
Fold up the edges of the foil to contain any juices during baking.

Step 4: Add Topping

Spread the remaining ketchup over the top of your meatloaf. Feel free to substitute with BBQ sauce or chili sauce if desired for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake It!

Bake in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160° F.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Once done, allow your meatloaf to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps maintain its juiciness. Serve with mashed potatoes or any side dish you prefer!

How to Serve The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing)

Serving meatloaf can be as delightful as making it. This classic comfort food is versatile and pairs well with various sides and condiments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meatloaf experience.

Classic Comfort

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a timeless pairing that complements the savory flavors of meatloaf.
Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a favorite side that balances the richness of the meatloaf.

Saucy Twists

BBQ Sauce Glaze: Drizzle extra BBQ sauce over slices for a smoky flavor boost.
Chili Sauce: For a tangy kick, serve with chili sauce on the side for dipping.
Gravy: A rich gravy can enhance every bite, making this dish even more comforting.

How to Perfect The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing)

Perfecting your meatloaf takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips to ensure every bite is delicious and moist.

Bold choice of seasoning: Add herbs like parsley or garlic powder for extra flavor depth.
Moisture matters: Include finely chopped onions or bell peppers to keep your meatloaf juicy.
Even cooking: Shape your loaf evenly so it cooks uniformly in the oven.
Rest before slicing: Letting your meatloaf rest allows juices to redistribute, giving you perfect slices.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing)

Pairing side dishes with your meatloaf not only enhances the meal but also adds variety to your table. Here are some great options that go beautifully with this dish.

Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until tender add color and nutrients.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatloaf.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes provide a satisfying starch option alongside your meatloaf.
Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy dish is an indulgent side that kids and adults alike will love.
Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter option, cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb alternative that’s easy to prepare.
Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with your favorite dressing adds freshness and balances out the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing meatloaf. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Skipping the resting time: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking helps the juices redistribute. Avoid slicing it immediately to maintain moisture.
Using too much liquid: Adding excess water can make your meatloaf soggy. Stick to the recommended amount for the perfect texture.
Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too long can result in a dense loaf. Combine just until everything is incorporated for a light and fluffy texture.
Neglecting temperature checks: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 160° F for safe eating.
Failing to grease the pan: Not greasing your loaf pan can lead to sticking. Use cooking spray or oil to ensure easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container.
It keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing)

Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing)

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350° F and reheat slices for about 20 minutes, covered with foil.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water, and cover until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you.

How do I make The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing) gluten-free?

You can substitute the Stove Top stuffing with gluten-free bread crumbs or a gluten-free stuffing mix.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well in this recipe and provides a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

What should I serve with The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing)?

It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160° F in the center of the loaf.

Can I add vegetables to my meatloaf?

Absolutely! Finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or carrots can add flavor and moisture. Just be mindful not to add too much liquid.

Final Thoughts

The Best Meatloaf Recipe (Made With Stove Top Stuffing) is an incredibly simple yet delicious dish that your whole family will enjoy. It’s versatile enough for customization—feel free to experiment with different spices or sauces. Give it a try today!