Pin 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.
I first tried this hack on a busy evening when I needed dinner ready fast. The stuffing mix brings so much flavor and saves time—it's now a go-to in our house.
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
- Prep Oven and Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease 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; do not overwork.
- Shape Loaf:
- Press mixture gently into loaf pan to shape.
- Add Topping (Optional):
- Spread 1/2 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce over top for extra flavor.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered 50–55 minutes, until internal temperature is 160°F (71°C) and loaf is cooked through.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Pin This meatloaf is always a hit at family dinner—especially when served with mashed potatoes. Everyone asks for seconds!
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, loaf pan, measuring cup, oven
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and possibly milk. Check stuffing mix labels for other allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 17 g, Protein: 36 g (per serving)
Pin This recipe makes a moist, flavorful meatloaf with hardly any effort—try it and you'll never go back!
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner alternative without sacrificing moisture when combined with the stuffing mix.
- → What does the stuffing mix do in this dish?
The stuffing mix adds seasoning and helps retain moisture, resulting in a tender, flavorful loaf.
- → Is it better to use water or milk with the stuffing mix?
Using milk instead of water adds extra richness and moisture to the meatloaf, enhancing flavor and texture.
- → Can I add sauce on top before baking?
Yes, spreading ketchup or barbecue sauce on top before baking adds a tangy glaze and additional flavor.
- → How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it's safely cooked through.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes and steamed green beans complement the meatloaf's rich, savory flavors nicely.