Stuffed Meat Loaf
Stuffed Meat Loaf offers a hearty, flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf with a savory stuffing layer. Juicy ground beef is combined with tomatoes and herbs, then topped with seasoned stuffing for a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It pairs well with mashed potatoes or vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 1 cup stuffing mix with the canned stewed tomatoes, ground chuck, and beaten egg, mixing well with your hands.
- Prepare the remaining stuffing mix as directed on the package, following the instructions as if using all the bread.
- Divide the meat mixture in half.
- Drop chunks of half of the meat into an 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Top with the prepared stuffing and press down gently.
- Layer the rest of the meat mixture on top of the stuffing.
- Again, drop chunks of the remaining meat on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the amount of meat used.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped onions or bell peppers into the meat mixture. You can use a different flavored stuffing mix if you prefer, such as garlic or chicken. For a lighter version, replace ground chuck with lean turkey or chicken. Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the umami flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with New Waldorf Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also offer mashed potatoes or baked beans as hearty sides. Drizzle with gravy or your favorite sauce for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Meat Loaf contains roughly 158 calories, with 7g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% 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 the stuffed meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed meatloaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of stewed tomatoes?
If you don't have canned stewed tomatoes, you can substitute with diced tomatoes or tomato sauce. For a thicker consistency, add a little tomato paste to enhance the flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your preference if using plain tomatoes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and assemble it in the pan a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply pop it in the oven and adjust baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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).