Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 box Stove Top Stuffing
- 2 eggs
- Ketchup (use as much as desired)
- Salt & pepper
- Brown sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix together ground beef, Stove Top Stuffing, eggs, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Form Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix together ketchup and brown sugar to make a glaze.
- Glaze Meatloaf: After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and coat the top with the ketchup and brown sugar glaze.
- Continue Baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is caramelized and the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Check Doneness: If making a thicker meatloaf, it may need to cook longer, closer to an hour, or until it’s no longer pink in the center.
- Serve: Once cooked through, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information:
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 428 kcal per serving
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 153mg
- Sodium: 695mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 28g
20 Popular Questions and Answers related to Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if desired.
- Can I use a different flavor of Stove Top Stuffing?
- Yes, feel free to experiment with different flavors of Stove Top Stuffing to customize the flavor of your meatloaf.
- Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Can I freeze the leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover meatloaf slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I omit the brown sugar topping?
- Yes, you can omit the brown sugar topping if you prefer a less sweet meatloaf.
- Can I add other ingredients to the meatloaf mixture?
- Yes, you can customize the meatloaf by adding ingredients such as diced onions, bell peppers, or shredded cheese.
- Can I use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for the topping?
- Yes, you can use barbecue sauce as a topping instead of ketchup for a different flavor profile.
- Can I use egg substitute instead of eggs?
- Yes, you can use egg substitute as a replacement for eggs in this recipe.
- What side dishes pair well with this meatloaf?
- This meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
- Can I use ground pork instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can use ground pork or a combination of ground meats for this recipe.
- Can I make mini meatloaves instead of one large loaf?
- Yes, you can portion the meat mixture into individual muffin cups for mini meatloaves.
- Can I use gluten-free stuffing mix?
- Yes, you can use a gluten-free stuffing mix if you have dietary restrictions.
- Can I make this meatloaf on the grill?
- Yes, you can grill the meatloaf over indirect heat on a barbecue grill for a smoky flavor.
- Can I use homemade stuffing instead of Stove Top?
- Yes, you can use homemade stuffing instead of Stove Top Stuffing if preferred.
- Can I use less ketchup in the meatloaf mixture?
- Yes, you can adjust the amount of ketchup to suit your taste preferences.
- Can I add Worcestershire sauce to the meatloaf mixture?
- Yes, Worcestershire sauce can add depth of flavor to the meatloaf mixture.
- How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
- The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
- Can I use a different type of ground meat, such as chicken or lamb?
- Yes, you can use different types of ground meat to make this meatloaf.
- Can I use Italian seasoning instead of individual herbs?
- Yes, Italian seasoning can be used as a convenient substitute for dried oregano, basil, and parsley.
- Can I make this meatloaf in a slow cooker?
- While not recommended for this recipe, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by shaping the meat mixture into a loaf and cooking on low for 4-6 hours.
Here are some secrets to achieve the perfect Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf:
- Choose the Right Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content, such as 80/20, for a juicier meatloaf. The fat adds flavor and moisture to the meat mixture.
- Use Stove Top Stuffing: Stove Top Stuffing adds flavor and texture to the meatloaf. Choose your favorite flavor of stuffing mix to customize the taste of your meatloaf.
- Properly Season: Season the meatloaf mixture generously with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer. This ensures that every bite is well-seasoned and flavorful.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients for the meatloaf just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough texture. Use a light hand to gently mix the ingredients together.
- Shape the Loaf Carefully: Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape that is uniform in size and thickness. This helps ensure even cooking and a nice presentation when sliced.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking or undercooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. It should register at least 160°F (71°C) when done.
- Add a Topping: Adding a topping, such as a ketchup and brown sugar glaze, adds flavor and caramelization to the meatloaf. Brush the topping on during the last few minutes of baking for a delicious finishing touch.
- Let it Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final product.
- Slice Against the Grain: When slicing the meatloaf, be sure to cut against the grain for a more tender texture. This helps break up the muscle fibers and makes each bite easier to chew.
- Serve with Your Favorite Sides: Pair the meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.
By following these secrets, you’ll be able to create a delicious and perfectly cooked Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf that your family will love!