Craving a hearty, comforting meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This easy meatloaf recipe with stove-top stuffing elevates a classic comfort food to new heights. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying dinner the whole family will love. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a flavor explosion that rivals any restaurant meal.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Stove Top Stuffing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cubed bread (day-old is best)
Instructions:
Making the Stove Top Stuffing:
- Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add celery, onion, and carrots; cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and add cubed bread. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bread is softened and the liquid is absorbed, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
Preparing the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Add breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Gently mix until just combined.
- Stir in the cooled stove top stuffing.
- Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Baking the Meatloaf:
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing develops the gluten in the meat, resulting in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful loaf.
- Get creative with your stuffing: Experiment with different vegetables or herbs to customize your stuffing.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture.
- Cheese Lover's Meatloaf: Incorporate shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese into the meatloaf mixture.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat mixture for a healthier twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy meatloaf recipe with stove-top stuffing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Enjoy!