Stuffed Meatloaf

 Stovetop Stuffed Meatloaf – A Comforting Classic Without the Oven

When you think of classic comfort food, meatloaf is often at the top of the list. But what if you could make it faster, easier, and without using the oven? This Stovetop Stuffed Meatloaf delivers juicy, flavorful beef, packed with savory stuffing and coated in rich brown gravy, all cooked in a skillet. It’s tender, hearty, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for weeknights or special family dinners.

This recipe eliminates the need for baking while ensuring the same moist, perfectly seasoned result. Plus, the stovetop method enhances the crust, giving it a delicious caramelized exterior that locks in flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Stovetop Stuffed Meatloaf

✔️ No oven required – Perfect for quick meals or hot summer days.

✔️ Incredibly moist and flavorful – The combination of stuffing mix and gravy infuses each bite with deep, comforting taste.

✔️ Easy to make in one pan – Less cleanup, more convenience.

✔️ Pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans.

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Ingredients & Their Role in the Dish

For the Meatloaf:

1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend) – The perfect fat-to-lean ratio ensures a juicy, tender meatloaf without being greasy.

1 package Stove Top stuffing (chicken or herb-flavored) – A genius shortcut that adds seasoning, texture, and binding power in one step.

1 cup hot water – Softens the stuffing, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the meat.

1 egg, beaten – Acts as a binder, keeping the meatloaf firm but tender.

½ cup milk – Adds moisture and richness, preventing a dry meatloaf.

½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall savory depth.

½ teaspoon onion powder – Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.

½ teaspoon salt – Essential for balancing flavors.

½ teaspoon black pepper – Provides a mild, warm spice.

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Infuses the meat with a deep, umami-rich flavor.

For the Gravy:

2 packets brown gravy mix – One is mixed into the meat for extra juiciness, while the other is used as a savory topping.

2 cups water – Helps dissolve the gravy mix for a smooth, velvety texture.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing

In a bowl, combine Stove Top stuffing with 1 cup hot water. Let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the stuffing to fully absorb the moisture.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, beaten egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat, or it will become dense.

Step 3: Incorporate the Stuffing and Gravy

Add the prepared stuffing to the meat mixture, followed by one packet of brown gravy mix. Mix gently to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

Form the mixture into a loaf shape. If desired, divide it into smaller patties for faster cooking.

Step 5: Cook on the Stovetop

Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it.

Place the meatloaf in the pan and cover with a lid.

Cook for 30-40 minutes, flipping carefully halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Make the Gravy

While the meatloaf cooks, prepare the second packet of brown gravy mix according to the package instructions.

Step 7: Glaze the Meatloaf

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, pour the prepared brown gravy over the meatloaf. Let it simmer, allowing the meat to absorb the rich, savory flavors.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it tender and flavorful.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Stovetop Meatloaf

✅ Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet – This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

✅ Cover the pan while cooking – Traps steam, keeping the meatloaf moist.

✅ Check doneness with a meat thermometer – The safest way to ensure perfectly cooked meatloaf.

✅ Add shredded cheese – Mixing in ½ cup of cheddar or mozzarella adds extra richness.

✅ Deglaze the pan with broth – After cooking, add a splash of beef broth to the pan to lift the flavorful bits and enhance the gravy.

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What to Serve with Stovetop Stuffed Meatloaf

This dish pairs beautifully with classic sides for a full, hearty meal:

🥔 Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate comfort food companion.

🥦 Garlic Butter Green Beans – Adds a fresh, crisp contrast.

🥖 Buttered Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up extra gravy.

🥕 Honey-Glazed Carrots – A touch of sweetness balances the savory richness.

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Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This Stovetop Stuffed Meatloaf delivers all the flavor of a traditional oven-baked meatloaf in half the time. The stuffing mix ensures incredible seasoning, the gravy keeps it moist, and the stovetop method creates a flavorful crust you won’t get from the oven.

It’s easy, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to baking meatloaf again

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