Meatloaf with Stove Top Stuffing: A Comfort Food Classic Reimagined

Meatloaf, a comforting classic, gets a delicious upgrade with the addition of stovetop stuffing! This recipe combines the savory heartiness of traditional meatloaf with the delightful textural contrast and added flavor of perfectly seasoned stuffing baked right inside. Prepare for a meal that's both familiar and exciting, guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe excels because it streamlines the cooking process without sacrificing flavor. Instead of preparing stuffing separately, we incorporate it directly into the meatloaf mixture, resulting in a moist, flavorful loaf with pockets of delicious stuffing throughout. This method simplifies cleanup and minimizes cooking time compared to traditional methods involving separate stuffing preparation and baking.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 cup stove top stuffing mix (your favorite flavor)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Get Started:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Prepare the Stuffing:

2. Prepare the stove top stuffing according to package directions, but use only ¾ of the recommended liquid. This ensures the stuffing isn't too soggy within the meatloaf. Set aside to cool slightly.

Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients:

3. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooled stuffing, milk, egg, onion, green bell pepper, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.

Shape and Bake:

4. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

5. If using a glaze, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Brush the glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf.

6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.

Rest and Serve:

7. 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.

Tips for Meatloaf Perfection

• Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
• Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
• Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference.
• Experiment with different stuffing flavors: Try using different flavors of stove top stuffing, such as herb, Italian, or wild rice.
• Add vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, consider adding other finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots or mushrooms.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your delicious meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The leftover meatloaf can be sliced and reheated for a quick and easy meal the next day.

This recipe offers a fun twist on a classic dish, guaranteeing a satisfying and flavorful meal your family will love. Enjoy!