Meatloaf Recipes with Stove Top Stuffing | Easy, Moist, and Flavor-Packed Dinner Ideas

Introduction

Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts, and meatloaf easily earns its spot on the list of all-time favorites. From family dinners to cozy weekend meals, it’s a dish that delivers both satisfaction and nostalgia. Now, imagine combining that classic meatloaf flavor with the soft, savory taste of Stove Top stuffing. This twist not only saves time but adds a rich depth of flavor you just don’t get from plain breadcrumbs.

Using Stove Top stuffing in meatloaf is one of those kitchen hacks that makes you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. It’s already seasoned, perfectly textured, and made to complement meats. When blended into a meatloaf, it brings all its goodness to the table—literally. You’ll end up with a moist, flavorful loaf that slices like a dream and tastes even better the next day.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this meatloaf variation deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. It’s beginner-friendly, budget-conscious, and versatile enough to please picky eaters and seasoned foodies alike.

Ingredients Needed

Before diving into the process, it helps to gather everything ahead of time. Below is a table listing all the ingredients, along with their estimated calorie count per serving. These are average estimates based on standard portions and common brands.

Ingredient	Quantity	Approximate Calories
Ground beef (80/20)	2 pounds	1600
Stove Top stuffing (chicken)	1 box	600
Eggs	2 large	140
Milk	1 cup	100
Ketchup	½ cup	100
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon	15
Onion (finely chopped)	1 medium	45
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	10
Salt	1 teaspoon	0
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	0
Optional ketchup or BBQ glaze	¼ cup (for topping)	70

Total estimated calories for the full loaf: 2680
Calories per slice (based on 8 slices): 335

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Set your oven to 350°F. While it’s warming up, prepare your loaf mixture.
2. Mix the wet ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. This combination helps to bind everything together and adds moisture.
3. Add the stuffing mix
   Stir in the entire box of Stove Top stuffing. Let it soak in the wet mixture for about 5 minutes. This softens the stuffing and allows it to better blend into the meat.
4. Incorporate the aromatics
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. These fresh ingredients boost the flavor and give the meatloaf a savory depth.
5. Mix in the meat
   Gently fold in the ground beef. Try not to overwork the meat, as this can make the loaf dense. Use clean hands or a wooden spoon for even mixing.
6. Season and shape
   Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Once everything is fully combined, shape the mixture into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet or place it in a loaf pan.
7. Optional glaze
   Spread a layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce on top. This adds flavor and helps create that caramelized crust everyone loves.
8. Bake
   Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
9. Rest before slicing
   Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This step is important—it helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

One of the best parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you want to make it healthier or bolder, there are plenty of ways to switch things up:

• Use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option
• Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition
• Swap the ketchup topping for a mix of BBQ sauce and brown sugar for a smoky, sweet finish
• Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes, Cajun seasoning, or a splash of hot sauce
• Mix in cheese such as shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan for a gooey center

Feel free to experiment. The stuffing base handles bold flavors well without overpowering the dish.

Nutritional Information

Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 of 8 slices):

• Calories: 335
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 550mg

Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the brand of stuffing, ketchup, and meat used.

Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with both classic and creative sides. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

• Mashed potatoes with butter and garlic
• Green beans or roasted broccoli for a crisp, healthy side
• Macaroni and cheese for the ultimate comfort combo
• Cornbread muffins for a Southern-inspired twist
• Simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness

Leftovers also work well in sandwiches. Just slice and reheat with a bit of cheese on toasted bread for a quick lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover stuffing instead of Stove Top?
Yes, as long as it’s seasoned and moist. Make sure to use about 1½ to 2 cups and adjust the milk if needed.

Is it okay to freeze this meatloaf?
Absolutely. You can freeze it either before baking or after it’s cooked. Wrap it tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of milk?
You can substitute milk with broth, almond milk, or even water. Just be sure the mixture remains moist enough to bind the loaf.

Why is my meatloaf falling apart?
It might be due to too little binding agent. Make sure to include both eggs and a good amount of stuffing mix. Also, don’t slice it too soon—let it rest first.

Can I make mini meatloaves with this recipe?
Yes, simply divide the mixture into smaller portions and reduce the baking time to around 25 to 30 minutes. Great for meal prep or individual servings.

Conclusion

A hearty meatloaf made with Stove Top stuffing is more than just a shortcut—it’s a flavor upgrade that saves time without sacrificing comfort or taste. The combination of seasoned stuffing, juicy meat, and rich toppings creates a dish that feels homey and special at the same time. Whether it’s a regular family dinner or a weekend comfort meal, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Try it once, and you’ll likely find yourself reaching for that box of stuffing more often than expected.