Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf –

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Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf – Don’t Lose This Recipe

A classic, comforting meatloaf that’s extra moist and flavorful thanks to crushed crackers and simple pantry ingredients. This recipe is easy enough for weeknights and hearty enough for Sunday dinner.

Description

This Stove Top Stuffing–style meatloaf is tender, juicy, and packed with savory flavor. The crushed crackers act as a binder, keeping the meatloaf moist without making it dense. Finely diced vegetables blend right in, making every bite flavorful without overpowering the beef.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • ½ cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)

  • 1½ sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed (about 48 crackers)

  • 2 large eggs

  • ¾ cup milk

  • 1 packet Stove Top stuffing seasoning or

    • 1 tsp salt

    • 1 tsp poultry seasoning

    • ½ tsp garlic powder

    • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ cup ketchup (plus more for topping)

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment.

  2. In a large bowl, combine crushed crackers and milk. Let sit for 1–2 minutes to soften.

  3. Add eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, seasoning, onion, and bell pepper. Mix well.

  4. Gently fold in the ground beef until just combined. Do not overmix.

  5. Shape into a loaf and place in pan.

  6. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top.

  7. Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

  8. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

Helpful Notes

  • Resting the meatloaf keeps it from falling apart

  • Finely diced vegetables blend better and improve texture

  • Lean beef prevents excess grease but still stays moist

Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overmix—this makes meatloaf tough

  • Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness

  • For extra flavor, add ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella

  • Line pan with foil for easy cleanup

Servings

  • 8–10 servings

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 420

  • Protein: 32g

  • Fat: 26g

  • Carbohydrates: 18g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 720mg

(Values vary based on ingredients used)

Benefits of This Recipe

  • Budget-friendly and feeds a crowd

  • Simple pantry ingredients

  • Kid-approved comfort food

  • Great for leftovers and meal prep

  • Can be frozen before or after baking

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute Stove Top Stuffing for crackers?
A: Yes! Use 1½ cups crushed Stove Top stuffing mix instead of crackers.

Q: Can I freeze this meatloaf?
A: Absolutely. Freeze raw or cooked for up to 3 months.

Q: What meat works best?
A: Lean ground beef (85–90%) is ideal, but ground turkey or beef/pork blends work well.

Q: How do I keep meatloaf from drying out?
A: Milk, eggs, and crackers provide moisture—don’t skip them.

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