Winning Stuffing Meat Loaf
A hearty meat loaf infused with savory stuffing mix and topped with ketchup, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, stuffing mix, egg, and milk; mix well.
- Place the mixture in a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan coated with non-stick cooking spray.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then pour off excess liquid.
- Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until no pink remains in the meat.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in sautéed onions, garlic, or herbs like thyme or parsley to the meat mixture. If you don’t have stuffing mix, crushed crackers or bread crumbs can be used as substitutes. To keep the meatloaf moist, ensure not to overmix the ingredients. You can also top it with BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. You can also serve it with a side salad for a fresh contrast. For a comforting twist, try it with Tater Tot Casserole(From The Files Of Charlie Mae Williams) or alongside a hearty Mushroom Rice Pilaf for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Winning Stuffing Meat Loaf contains roughly 831 calories, with 16g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1070mg per serving (47% 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 use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so it may require additional moisture. Consider adding a bit more milk or a tablespoon of olive oil to ensure the meatloaf remains juicy.
How can I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?
To help the meatloaf hold its shape, make sure to include the egg as it acts as a binder. Also, avoid overmixing the ingredients, as this can lead to a dense texture. If necessary, add a bit more stuffing mix or breadcrumbs for additional structure.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, bake it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until cooked through. Alternatively, you can freeze leftovers after cooking, reheating them thoroughly before serving.
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).