Busy Day Meat Loaf
A quick and hearty meatloaf with savory flavors, perfect for busy weeknights. Combines ground beef, stuffing mix, and a tangy catsup topping for satisfying comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together stuffing mix and milk in a large mixing bowl.
- Let stand about 5 minutes or until stuffing mix is softened.
- Add egg, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onions, and salt.
- Beat well to combine.
- Add ground beef and mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf.
- Place in a greased or foil-lined shallow baking pan.
- Score the loaf by making several diagonal grooves across the top.
- Fill the grooves with catsup or chili sauce.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until well browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned stuffing mix or adding herbs like thyme or parsley. If you’re out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a good substitute. Mixing in chopped bell peppers or carrots can also enhance the meatloaf's moisture and nutrition. For a different twist, try topping the meatloaf with a mixture of ketchup and brown sugar for a sweet glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Busy Day Meat Loaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. A fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables also pairs nicely. For a heartier option, serve it alongside Virginia'S Hamburger Soup. Don't forget to offer extra catsup or chili sauce on the side for dipping!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Busy Day Meat Loaf contains roughly 223 calories, with 3g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 815mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well. To freeze, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and for best results, reheat in the oven to maintain its texture.
What can I use instead of stuffing mix?
If you don't have stuffing mix, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. Just mix them with some herbs and spices to mimic the flavor of stuffing. Additionally, using cooked rice or quinoa can also provide a unique twist while still binding the meatloaf together.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (70°C) in the center. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is well-browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center when you cut it open.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).