🍽️ Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf – The Easy, Flavor-Packed Twist on a Classic


🍴 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

  • 1 (6 oz) box Stovetop Stuffing mix (any variety — classic, herb, or onion)
  • 1 cup hot water (from the stuffing instructions)
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or diced carrots (for hidden veggies)

🌿 For gluten-free: Use GF stuffing mix or substitute with cooked quinoa + herbs.

🍳 Instructions

  1. Prep the stuffing

    • In a large bowl, pour 1 cup hot water over the stuffing mix.
    • Let sit 5 minutes until absorbed and fluffy.

  2. Mix the meatloaf

    • Add ground beef, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and pepper.
    • Gently mix with hands or a fork until just combined — don’t overmix!

  3. Shape & bake

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Transfer mixture to a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan (or shape free-form on a baking sheet).
    • Spread 2–3 tbsp ketchup on top for a sweet glaze.

  4. Bake

    • Bake 45–55 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
    • Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing (keeps it juicy).

  5. Serve warm

    • Slice and serve with extra gravy or roasted veggies.

🔥 Pro Tip: Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for a caramelized top — watch closely!

✅ Tips for the Best Results

Don’t skip letting stuffing hydrate
Prevents dryness in the final loaf
Use a meat thermometer
Ensures perfect doneness without guesswork
Let it rest before slicing
Juices redistribute = juicier meatloaf
Freeze leftovers
Cool completely and freeze in slices for up to3 months
Double the batch
Great for meal prep or freezer stash

🔄 Easy Variations to Try

Cheese-Stuffed Center
Add a core of mozzarella or cheddar before baking
Spicy Kick
Mix in jalapeños or smoked paprika
Turkey Version
Swap beef for ground turkey (add 1 tbsp olive oil for moisture)
Low-Sugar
Use sugar-free ketchup and low-sugar stuffing
Instant Pot Option
Cook on High Pressure 35 mins with trivet; quick release

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I use other stuffing mixes?

Yes! Try cornbread, wild rice, or mushroom varieties for different flavors.

❓ Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

❓ Can I freeze it?

Yes — both raw and cooked. Wrap tightly and label with date.

❓ Is this kid-friendly?

100% — many families call it “meatloaf muffins” when made in mini pans!

Final Thoughts

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make a meal that feels like home.

With Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf, you get all the flavor, heartiness, and nostalgia — in a dish that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

So next time you’re staring into the fridge wondering “What’s for dinner?” —
skip the takeout.

Make this instead.

Because the best meals aren’t complicated —
they’re savory, simple, and shared with love. 💛