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
Scale
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.
