When the craving for meatloaf strikes, there’s no room for compromise – I must have it! This comforting dish brings back cherished memories from my childhood, making it an ultimate comfort food for me. What’s even better is that this is the easiest meatloaf recipe I’ve come across, and its flavor is simply delicious!
The secret ingredient that elevates this meatloaf is the stuffing mix, which adds a depth of flavor and beautifully replaces traditional breadcrumbs. To add an extra touch of taste, I sometimes incorporate finely minced onion into the mixture, resulting in a fantastic flavor profile.
Since my husband loves boxed stuffing, I always keep some on hand, and if you don’t have any, a quick trip to the store is well worth it. The beauty of this recipe is that there’s no chopping involved, making it incredibly easy and fuss-free. And if you do decide to add minced onion, it only takes a minute, ensuring the recipe remains quick and straightforward.
For a fun twist, I sometimes make the meatloaf in a muffin tin – we absolutely love it this way! It not only speeds up the cooking process but also adds a cute and individual touch to the presentation. However, the classic loaf pan works perfectly fine, and the leftovers make for delightful sandwiches – a timeless way to enjoy this dish.
As I savor each bite of this meatloaf, it brings back memories of my childhood, reminding me of the joy and comfort it has always provided. Whether you choose to make it in muffin form or go for the traditional loaf, this meatloaf is a timeless classic that brings joy and satisfaction to every meal.
So, indulge in this delicious and easy-to-make meatloaf, and relish the wonderful memories it creates at your table. The simplicity and rich flavors of this recipe will undoubtedly make it a beloved favorite for your family as well.
Ingredients
1 lb. ground beef
1 4oz. box of stuffing – chicken flavored
2 Eggs
¾ cup Chili Sauce or ketchup
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350° F. Grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and the stuffing mix.
Add the eggs, and ¼ cup of the chili Sauce. Mix well.
Add salt and pepper if desired.
Transfer the meat mixture into the pan.
Bake in the oven for 40 – 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160° F.
Once it reaches temperature, spread the remaining chili sauce over top and turn the oven to broil.
Broil for 2-3 minutes or until the top begins to bubble and get some caramelization.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cut into slices and serve!
Notes
• You can add finely minced onion, carrots, or celery if you would like. The stuffing does have vegetables for flavor but adding more to the mix is a great way to include more vegetables.
• Instead of the chili sauce, ketchup, or BBQ sauce work wonderfully.
• You can use any flavor stuffing that you prefer. I typically use the chicken, but feel free to use whichever is your favorite.
• If you make them in a muffin tin, still set the oven to 350° F but bake for 20 minutes, add the chili sauce, and leave in for 5-10 more minutes. I don’t broil them when I use a muffin tin.
• To make it gluten free, you can find gluten free stuffing mix which works just as well. It is sometimes harder to find so if you want to make it gluten free, grab a few boxes of the stuffing when you find it.
• I recommend using a meat thermometer – especially if making the meatloaf in as a loaf. This will ensure the internal temperature is at 160° F and the meat is cooked through.
Conclusion:
The 4-Ingredient Meatloaf is a true delight that satisfies my cravings for a comforting and nostalgic dish. As an ultimate comfort food from my childhood, there is no compromise when it comes to making this meatloaf. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe whenever I yearn for a taste of home.
The magic of this recipe lies in the stuffing mix, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor, replacing traditional breadcrumbs with ease. The result is a delicious and flavorful meatloaf that brings joy with every bite. The option to add finely minced onion adds an extra touch of taste, enhancing the overall experience.
With my husband’s love for boxed stuffing, I always have some on hand, making this recipe even more convenient to whip up. Whether you choose to add minced onion or not, the recipe remains incredibly quick to prepare, ensuring a delicious meal in no time.
For a fun and speedy twist, making the meatloaf in a muffin tin is a fantastic idea that we love. It not only adds a unique presentation but also speeds up the cooking process. However, the classic loaf pan version still holds its charm, especially when it comes to enjoying the mouthwatering leftovers as sandwiches, just like in my childhood.
As I relish the flavors of this meatloaf, it brings back cherished memories and a sense of comfort that warms my heart. The 4-Ingredient Meatloaf has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen, and it never fails to impress with its simplicity and delightful taste.
So, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this 4-Ingredient Meatloaf is a recipe that brings joy and satisfaction to the table. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a timeless classic that I’m sure will continue to be a beloved favorite in my family and beyond.