Meatloaf Recipe with Stove Top Stuffing: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
This recipe elevates the classic meatloaf to new heights by incorporating savory stove-top stuffing for an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. It’s a hearty, comforting meal perfect for a family dinner or a casual weeknight gathering. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this upgraded take on a timeless favorite!
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 0.5 lbs ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup stove-top stuffing mix (your favorite flavor)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little oil until softened. This adds depth of flavor to your meatloaf.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, sautéed onion and garlic, stuffing mix, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Baking the Meatloaf:
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If using the glaze, brush it over the meatloaf during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Making the Optional Glaze:
- Combine ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve your delicious meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- A side of gravy complements the meatloaf beautifully.
- For a complete meal, consider adding a simple side of steamed green beans or corn on the cob.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use good quality ground meat: The flavor of your meatloaf will be directly impacted by the quality of the ground beef and pork you use.
- Check the internal temperature: Using a meat thermometer ensures your meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Get creative with the stuffing: Experiment with different flavors of stove-top stuffing to find your favorite combination.
This meatloaf recipe with stove-top stuffing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple yet elegant flavors will become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!
