If comfort food had a superstar, it would be this Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf (Oven Baked) Recipe that combines the savory magic of stove top stuffing with juicy, flavorful meatloaf. This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy family dinners or whenever you are craving something hearty that feels like a warm hug. The seasoned stuffing mix blends beautifully with ground meat and classic spices, baking into a moist and tender loaf topped with a delicious ketchup glaze that’s irresistibly good.

Stove Top stuffing mix box with colorful packaging, clear measuring cup with water or milk, raw ground beef and pork mixture in a rustic bowl showing rich red and pink hues and marbled texture, two large fresh brown eggs with smooth shells, small glass bowl of bright red ketchup, finely chopped white onion in a small white dish, sprinkle of garlic powder in a tiny bowl with off-white powder texture, coarse black pepper and salt crystals in matching small dishes, fresh vibrant green chopped parsley scattered lightly, all ingredients neatly arranged in a balanced circular composition on a clean white wooden surface with natural soft lighting highlighting textures and colors, subtle shadows for depth, minimal props for a clean and inviting look, overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every fantastic recipe starts with quality ingredients, and this one is no exception. The list is straightforward but carefully chosen to bring out robust flavors and an inviting texture that’s sure to make your meatloaf stand out.

Stove Top stuffing mix (6 oz): This adds moisture and seasoning, giving the meatloaf that special savory twist.
Water or milk (1 cup): Used to soften the stuffing, milk adds creaminess while water keeps it simple.
Ground beef (2 pounds): The hearty base of the meatloaf, lean or mixed for perfect juiciness.
Large eggs (2): Act as a binder to hold all those ingredients together perfectly.
Ketchup (1/2 cup plus more for topping): Adds tang, moisture, and forms a classic glaze once baked.
Small onion (finely chopped): Brings natural sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle but essential savory punch.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a mild kick without overpowering the flavors.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the ingredients, balancing the taste perfectly.
Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness at serving.

How to Make Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf (Oven Baked) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing Base

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the Stove Top stuffing mix with the cup of water or milk and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes. This is the secret step that ensures the stuffing is perfectly softened, bringing moisture into the meatloaf so every bite stays tender.

Step 2: Mix in the Meat and Flavorings

To your softened stuffing, add the ground beef, eggs, ketchup, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, while mixing just enough guarantees a tender texture bursting with flavor. This step is where the magic happens as all the flavors start to marry.

Step 3: Shape and Glaze the Meatloaf

Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if you prefer a free-form loaf. Transfer the mixture evenly into your chosen pan or shape it by hand on the sheet. Now, spread a thin, even layer of ketchup on top to create that iconic, glossy meatloaf glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures your meat is safely cooked while remaining juicy and flavorful. Once done, allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing—this resting step keeps all the delicious juices locked inside.

How to Serve Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf (Oven Baked) Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a subtle herbal lift that complements the rich meatloaf beautifully. Feel free to add a drizzle of your favorite brown gravy or a little more ketchup on the side for dipping.

Side Dishes

This meatloaf shines when paired with comforting classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or garlicky roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside green beans or a crisp salad for a lighter balance. The versatility lets you tailor the meal to what you love most.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices of this Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf (Oven Baked) Recipe inside warm sandwich rolls with lettuce and tomato for a hearty meatloaf sandwich twist. Another fun idea is to top it with melted cheese for an ooey-gooey finish that will delight kids and adults alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its moisture and flavor for easy meals the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze either the raw shaped meatloaf or the fully cooked loaf. For raw, wrap it tightly in plastic and foil then freeze for up to 3 months. Cooked leftovers can be frozen in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven. Cover with foil if using the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep it moist, heating until warmed through, about 15 minutes. This way, your leftovers taste almost as good as freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in this recipe without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just keep an eye on moisture levels since turkey can be leaner.

How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?

Look for a gluten-free stove top stuffing mix or substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs and spices to maintain the stuffing flavor without gluten.

Is it necessary to use eggs?

Eggs bind the ingredients together to ensure the meatloaf holds its shape. If you want to skip eggs, you can try using flaxseed meal mixed with water as a vegan binder, but the texture may slightly differ.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance?

Yes, you can mix all the ingredients the night before and keep the mixture covered in the refrigerator. Shape and bake the meatloaf fresh the next day for best results.

What should the internal temperature be when baking this meatloaf?

The safe internal temperature for ground meat like beef is 160°F (71°C). Using a meat thermometer helps to bake it perfectly without under or overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf (Oven Baked) Recipe is such a joy to make and eat, bringing together nostalgic flavors with a fresh twist. It’s not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that fills your kitchen and your belly with happiness. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and make it a new family favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.