Stove Top Meatloaf Hack

Featured in: Family Comfort Meals

This meatloaf uses a boxed stuffing mix to add flavor and moisture, combining ground beef with eggs and liquid, then baked to perfection. It offers a quick, easy way to create a tender main dish that pairs well with classic sides. Optional toppings like ketchup or barbecue sauce boost the taste while resting the loaf ensures juiciness. Variations include swapping proteins and adding spices to deepen flavor.

Updated on Thu, 20 Nov 2025 16:59:00 GMT
Savory Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf, golden brown and juicy, ready to slice after baking. Save
Savory Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf, golden brown and juicy, ready to slice after baking. | pumpkinhearth.com

A quick and flavorful meatloaf recipe using boxed stuffing mix for extra taste and moisture—perfect for busy weeknights and loved by the whole family.

This hack has saved me countless times when I needed dinner on the table fast, yet still wanted a homemade touch my family appreciates.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: 2 lbs (900 g), 80/20 blend recommended
  • Stove Top stuffing mix: 1 box (6 oz/170 g), any flavor
  • Eggs: 2 large
  • Water or milk: 1 cup (240 ml)

Instructions

Prepare oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Mix ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, stuffing mix, eggs, and water (or milk). Mix until just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat.
Shape meatloaf:
Transfer mixture to prepared loaf pan, pressing gently to form.
Optional topping:
Spread 1/2 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce over the top for extra flavor.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 50–55 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rest and serve:
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
A close-up shot of the delicious Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf, perfectly baked and glistening on top. Save
A close-up shot of the delicious Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf, perfectly baked and glistening on top. | pumpkinhearth.com

Whenever I make this, my kids gather around the table eager for their favorite classic dinner, and it's become our comfort meal on chilly evenings.

Required Tools

Mixing bowl, loaf pan, measuring cup, oven

Allergen Information

Contains: Wheat (gluten), eggs, and may contain milk. Check stuffing mix for additional allergens such as soy or dairy.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 17 g, Protein: 36 g per serving

Homemade Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf served with mashed potatoes, a comforting American classic. Save
Homemade Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf served with mashed potatoes, a comforting American classic. | pumpkinhearth.com

This easy meatloaf hack makes dinner comforting and simple with minimal prep. Enjoy hearty slices served alongside your favorite veggies.

Recipe Q&A

Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives for a leaner option.

What is the purpose of the stuffing mix in this dish?

The stuffing mix adds both flavor and moisture, helping keep the meatloaf tender and tasty.

Can I use milk instead of water in the mix?

Absolutely, milk adds extra richness and moisture to the meatloaf mixture.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and juices run clear.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes and steamed green beans complement the dish well for a balanced meal.

Stove Top Meatloaf Hack

Moist meatloaf enhanced with savory stuffing mix, ideal for busy evenings and simple family meals.

Prep duration
10 min
Time to cook
50 min
Time required
60 min
Created by Sarah Coleman


Skill required Easy

Cuisine origin American

Portions 4 Serves

Dietary info None specified

What you'll need

Meat

01 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

Binding and Flavor

01 1 box (6 ounces) Stove Top stuffing mix (any flavor)
02 2 large eggs

Liquid

01 1 cup water or milk

Directions

Step 01

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 02

Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, stuffing mix, eggs, and chosen liquid until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 03

Shape mixture: Transfer mixture to prepared loaf pan and press gently to shape evenly.

Step 04

Optional topping: Optionally, spread 1/2 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce over the loaf’s surface for added flavor.

Step 05

Bake meatloaf: Bake uncovered for 50 to 55 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F and meat is cooked through.

Step 06

Rest and serve: Allow meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Gear Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Loaf pan
  • Measuring cup
  • Oven

Allergy warning

Read over each ingredient for allergies and check with your doctor when uncertain.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and may contain milk if milk or certain stuffing mixes are used. Check stuffing mix for soy and dairy allergens.

Nutrition details per portion

This is for reference only. Contact your healthcare provider about any concerns.
  • Calorie count: 420
  • Fat content: 22 g
  • Carbohydrate: 17 g
  • Proteins: 36 g