Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe

Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 8 generous servings. Ingredient amounts are scaled automatically, but cooking steps remain consistent.

  • Cooking spray
  • 1 1/2 pounds 80/20 ground beef
  • 1 (6-ounce) box chicken stuffing mix (e.g., Stovetop)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 1 cup ketchup, divided
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Line an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan with a double layer of aluminum foil, leaving a 3-inch overhang on the long sides. Lightly spray with cooking spray and place on a baking sheet.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, stuffing mix, water, egg, salt, poultry seasoning, and 1/2 cup ketchup. Gently mix with your hands until evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  3. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the sides are bubbling.
  5. While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl until smooth.
  6. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the ketchup glaze evenly over the top.
  7. Return to the oven and continue baking for 10-15 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160F (71C).
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes. Use the foil overhang to lift it out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into 8 portions and serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 270
  • Total Fat: 11g (14% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 5g (25% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 113mg (38% DV)
  • Sodium: 665mg (29% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g (5% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 27g (54% DV)
  • Vitamin C: 2mg (2% DV)
  • Calcium: 35mg (3% DV)
  • Iron: 3mg (19% DV)
  • Potassium: 509mg (11% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values may vary depending on individual dietary needs.

Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe

History and Origins of Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf

Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf is a modern twist on the classic American meatloaf, combining the traditional comfort of ground beef with the convenience and flavor of boxed stuffing mix. Meatloaf itself dates back to 5th-century Germany, but the American version gained popularity in the early 20th century as an economical way to stretch ground meat for families. Incorporating Stovetop stuffinga product introduced in the 1970s by General Foodsadds both texture and seasoning, creating a dish that feels like Thanksgiving on a weeknight.

Regional Variations and Local Adaptations

While the base recipe is broadly American, regional adaptations often reflect local tastes. In the Midwest, cooks might use a combination of ground beef and pork sausage with savory herb stuffing, while in the South, barbecue sauce often replaces ketchup for a tangy glaze. Some coastal regions add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the mix, enhancing flavor and moisture. Even the choice of stuffing mixchicken, cornbread, or herbcan reflect local traditions and availability.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf is distinct from traditional meatloaf and casseroles because it integrates a pre-seasoned stuffing mix directly into the meat. Unlike standard meatloaf, which relies on breadcrumbs or oatmeal as a binder, the stuffing mix brings its own herbs, seasoning, and texture. This results in a richer flavor and a slightly lighter, airier loaf compared to denser, classic meatloaf recipes.

Typical Serving Occasions

This meatloaf is often served as a hearty weeknight dinner but can also appear at casual family gatherings or holiday meals. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. Some households serve it cold as sandwiches the next day, much like traditional meatloaf, taking advantage of its flavorful stuffing blend.

Interesting Facts and Tips

One interesting fact is that Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf allows home cooks to achieve the flavor of holiday stuffing without roasting a whole turkey. Some families experiment by adding unusual ingredients like chopped prunes for sweetness, hot Italian sausage for spice, or onion soup mix for depth. Another tip is using foil to lift the loaf out of the pan easily, simplifying cleanup. While the recipe is straightforward, its adaptability has made it a favorite across generations, turning a simple meatloaf into a versatile and beloved comfort food.

FAQ about Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe

Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf, where you mix ground beef with Stovetop chicken stuffing mix and seasonings for a moist and flavorful meal. It's topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup and brown sugar glaze.

The total cooking time for Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf is about 60 minutes. The initial baking time is 35 minutes, followed by another 10-15 minutes after adding the ketchup glaze to reach an internal temperature of 160°F.

Yes, you can use any type of stuffing mix you prefer. While the recipe uses Stovetop chicken stuffing, some people have had success using pork stuffing, savory herbs, or even different flavor varieties. The flavor will vary depending on your choice of stuffing.

Yes, you can bake the meatloaf in muffin tins instead of a loaf pan. This will reduce the cooking time and make for easy individual servings. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time, as muffins typically cook faster—around 25-30 minutes.

Yes, you can freeze Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf. Once baked and cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.

To add some heat, you can incorporate ingredients like cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or even spicy sausage into the meat mixture. Some people also like to use Cajun seasoning or chili flakes for an extra kick.

Yes, you can skip the ketchup glaze if you prefer. Some alternatives include using BBQ sauce, chili sauce, or even a mixture of Worcestershire sauce and mustard. The glaze adds flavor and moisture, but the meatloaf will still be tasty without it.

If your meatloaf is too crumbly, you may want to adjust the amount of stuffing mix or water. You could also try adding breadcrumbs or another egg to help bind the ingredients together. Overmixing can also lead to crumbliness, so mix gently and evenly.

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Ground turkey is leaner, so it may result in a slightly drier meatloaf. To counter this, you can add a bit more water or some olive oil to keep it moist.

Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a more comforting meal, try serving it with macaroni and cheese or steamed broccoli.

Comments

DiannaD

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This is a great recipe. I have been using Stovetop Chicken Stuffing mix in my meatloaves for many years. I modify it according to what I have on hand and these are some ingredients I've added: chopped onion, garlic powder and/or freshly minced garlic, a dash of onion powder, one tsp white horseradish (not the sauce), a dash of Worcester sauce, an equal amount of milk (for the bread crumbs) and an equal amount of water total 1/2 cup (more or less), salt & pepper, and I squeeze out the meat from two raw pork sausages - hot or sweet, whatever I have on hand, and mix the meat in very well with the hamburger meat. It really adds so much flavor. Sometimes I have sprinkled in a 1/4-1/2 tsp cayenne powder or cajun powder if I don't have hot Italian sausages and I want more flavor. It doesn't make the meatloaf hot or spicy imo. I spread ketchup on top and bake for about 55 mins to 1:10 mins on 350. I like the ketchup on top to brown and thicken a little. At different times I put strips of bacon on top either alone or with the ketchup, depending on if I have bacon, but some said they like the bacon alone without the ketchup, or the ketchup alone without the bacon, but not together - to each his own lol. (I've even added a few chopped up prunes! You can't even tell they're in it and it's extra fiber.) My meatloaves disappear and I rarely have a crumb leftover. I have never tried adding brown sugar or poultry seasoning. Happy Meatloafing!

Myra

10/19/2024 07:36:25 PM

I live alone so I only cook for me and I make full blown servings so I don't have to cook for a few days. This recipe is amazing! The only things I changed was also adding a packet of dried Lipton golden onion soup mix and I used a 'meatloaf mix' instead of all beef. I also made more of the sauce for the top. I also don't have a loaf pan, but I just shaped it into a loaf and put it in a roasting pan. Amazing, all day I think about eating it for dinner and can't wait to get home. I highly recommend this!

RedSauce8813

09/04/2024 02:47:40 PM

I make this but skip the topping and add 1/2 cup to 1 cup chicken or beef broth to the recipe. Then I bake as muffins (not a loaf). Easy to store or freeze. Yummy!

HappyPork8250

10/06/2024 06:50:28 PM

We use pork Stovetop stuffing. Tastes so much better. And did not use poultry seasoning. Does not taste like Thanksgiving at all.

sctaylor25

09/04/2024 04:42:47 PM

My family loves this meatloaf! We use the Stovetop brand Savory Herbs stuffing, BBQ sauce instead of ketchup (in the mix and as the topping) and omit the salt and poultry seasoning. It’s an easy recipe and the meatloaf is moist and delicious!

Barbara Heath

10/14/2024 01:26:45 AM

I didn't have poultry seasoning so I used 1/2 cup chicken broth instead of water. Worked out fine.

MerryAle3260

09/05/2024 08:24:50 AM

This is OK is you're ina hurry and don't really want to fuss. It's crumbly when you finish, as you can tell by the second photo. Better yo take and extra 20 minutes and gind another recipe using stuffing mix (and there are PLENTY) that add chopped onions, parsley, maybe another egg, some milk and other seasons. Also the glaze is great, but it needs a little acid along with the brown sugar. I always add a tablespoon on cider vinegar to the ketchup. Otherwise there's no balance.

ProudMelon2031

09/04/2024 03:14:36 PM

Used 2 eggs 1 cup of milk in a large bowl mixed them together with Italian seasoning, Garlic powder and onion powder. added Stovetop stuffing and mixed really, really well. Let the stuffing mix sit for five or 10 minutes. At chop meat and mixed real well. I did not use poultry seasoning or ketchup.

Happycampersarah

05/01/2025 10:12:28 PM

Awesome meatloaf. Hubby says it’s the best he’s ever had. I did make a few changes (just our taste preferences) I used half hamburger and half ground Italian sausage, added bell peppers and onions, a little Worcester sauce, used Savory Herb Stove Top Stuffing and we prefer Chili sauce on top. Thank you for this easy peasy recipe.

Tara

10/23/2024 11:13:16 PM

We LOVED this! The stovetop stuffing and a bit of water made this perfectly moist, not dry at all. I did add/change some things. I took 1 reviewers advice and included a packet of onion soup mix, added diced green peppers, chopped onion, and a jar of chopped garlic. Instead of ketchup I used A1 with everything bagel seasoning sprinkled on top. Let it carmelize a few minutes before serving. It was fabulous! Everyone loved it! Thanks for the recipe!

David Price

09/04/2024 04:22:09 PM

This was wonderful! I didn't have poultry seasoning, so I substituted black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire Sauce. It's delicious. :)

Allrecipes Member

08/23/2025 08:14:30 PM

Terrible. Meatloaf is so easy to make from scratch. This tasted like stuffing with meat.

David Tolan

04/29/2025 03:18:57 PM

Super easy and tasty

yavery71

04/06/2025 07:03:46 PM

Best recipe I've ever tried! We were tired of the old recipe. So we tried this one and we love it more than our old one.

gtc

12/17/2024 02:38:54 PM

I too diverted from the recipe. Added some A1 to the beef because I did as someone else mentioned about using it on top. I mixed A1 and ketchup together for the top. I didn't feel like chopping up an onion so I used the dry mix. Real onion is better. It tastes good I had to get over the texture. Texture is just like you're eating stuffing which is different from meatloaf. My husband really liked it. I think next time I will use half the stuffing and add bread crumbs for the difference. I like the tip of the foil. Made everything easier.

CoralBran1928

11/11/2024 08:04:55 PM

Thank you for the repice

Sue

11/08/2024 02:37:51 PM

This recipe was ok but meatloaf was very crumbly and fell apart when cutting it. I will not make this recipe again

Suzie

11/02/2024 09:51:29 PM

This is full of flavor and so easy to make. No mess

Susan Lee

10/26/2024 04:31:29 AM

Wow, this tastes just like homemade.

dcchefdora

10/26/2024 03:15:53 AM

Not very creative or exciting. It merely a plain meat loaf at best.