If you are searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together two classic favorites, you have to try this incredible Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe. This dish combines the hearty, savory goodness of a traditional meatloaf with the flavorful, aromatic texture of stuffing, creating a moist and flavorful centerpiece that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. Imagine biting into a juicy, well-seasoned loaf enhanced by the perfect blend of herbs, onion, and a tangy glaze that marries all the flavors beautifully. It’s a recipe that turns simple ingredients into a memorable meal everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each one playing a vital role in making your Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe both delicious and satisfying. From the richness of ground beef to the comforting herbs in the stuffing, every component adds layers of taste and texture.
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef: The hearty base that brings moisture and savoriness to the meatloaf.
- 1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix: Adds texture and a burst of herbaceous flavor to the loaf.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth when cooked within the meat mixture.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder, keeping the loaf together while adding richness.
- 1 cup milk: Moistens the stuffing to soften it and keep the meatloaf juicy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds savory umami notes that elevate the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlicky warmth throughout the loaf.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings an earthy, slightly floral herbaceous hint.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to highlight the natural flavors.
- ½ cup ketchup: Forms the base of the glaze, adding tang and sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the ketchup’s acidity with a rich caramel note.
- 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon): Adds a gentle kick and depth to the glaze.
How to Make Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature allows the meatloaf to cook evenly without drying out. Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to make removing the meatloaf a breeze once it’s cooked and rested.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
In a large mixing bowl, combine your stuffing mix with the milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This soaking step hydrates the stuffing, giving it a softness that will blend harmoniously with the beef as a part of the texture inside the meatloaf.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf
Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to your hydrated stuffing mixture. Gently mix everything together until all ingredients are well incorporated. The key here is to combine thoroughly without overworking the meat, which can make your loaf tough.
Step 4: Form the Meatloaf
Transfer your combined mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down gently to form an even loaf shape. This ensures the meatloaf cooks uniformly and holds together well during baking and slicing.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. This glaze adds a wonderfully tangy, sweet, and slightly sharp finish that caramelizes on top while baking, enhancing the overall flavor of your Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe.
Step 6: Bake
Spread the glaze evenly over the top of your meatloaf, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), which ensures it is safe and perfectly cooked through. The baking time allows the flavors to meld and the glaze to caramelize beautifully.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period locks in juices, making every bite tender and moist. Then slice, serve, and enjoy the comforting magic of this classic dish revamped with a stuffing twist.
How to Serve Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, consider fresh chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled over the slices for a fresh herbaceous note and a pop of color. A drizzle of extra glaze or a side of warm gravy can add an inviting richness that makes each serving even more special.
Side Dishes
This Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe pairs beautifully with traditional mashed potatoes that soak up the flavorful glaze, roasted or steamed vegetables for some freshness, or even a crisp green salad to balance the meal. Classic sides like green beans almondine or buttery corn will also complement its savory profile wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, try slicing the meatloaf and serving it open-faced on toasted bread for a hearty sandwich, layering it with melted cheese and caramelized onions. Another fun presentation is to serve individual mini meatloaf portions baked in muffin tins, perfect for portion control and presentation at a cozy dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap leftover slices of your Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerated properly, leftovers will stay delicious for up to 3 to 4 days and retain their moisture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prepare your Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe well in advance, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months, ready to be thawed and enjoyed later.
Reheating
For reheating, the oven is ideal to maintain texture and flavor. Heat at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness. Alternatively, microwave slices wrapped in a damp paper towel to keep them moist, but check frequently to avoid drying.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, but because they are leaner, you might want to add a little olive oil or an extra egg to keep the loaf moist and tender.
What types of stuffing mix work best?
Any variety of stuffing mix will work, but classic herb or savory bread stuffing blends complement the meatloaf flavors best. Avoid mixes with added fruits or nuts if you prefer a more traditional taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the recipe without compromising on flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
Definitely! To reduce sweetness, cut back the brown sugar in the glaze or substitute it with a savory ingredient like barbecue sauce for a different but equally delicious top layer.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). This guarantees it’s safely cooked but still juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe is one of those irresistible comfort foods that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple, satisfying, and a wonderful way to bring folks together around the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own family favorite!
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Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Stuffing Meatloaf combines the savory flavors of ground beef with seasoned stuffing mix, enhanced by a tangy glaze of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Baked to perfection, this classic comfort food offers a moist and flavorful dinner option perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix (any variety)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the meatloaf doesn’t stick.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the stuffing to absorb the milk and soften, creating a cohesive base for the meatloaf.
- Mix the Meatloaf: Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the softened stuffing mixture. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until well combined—avoid overworking the meat to keep the loaf tender.
- Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently to form an even loaf shape that will cook evenly in the oven.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, adding a sweet and tangy flavor and helping to create a glossy caramelized crust.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) indicating that the meat is safely cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute making the meatloaf moist and easier to slice. Serve with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or your favorite sides.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the loaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- The stuffing mix can be any variety you prefer, including herb or cornbread flavors.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing improves juiciness and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.
