If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and utterly satisfying dinner, the Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe is just what you need. This dish is a marvelous twist on classic meatloaf, featuring a moist, tender blend of ground beef and savory stuffing that infuses every bite with warm, herby goodness. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, it’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less!

Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe has a special role to play, contributing to the rich flavor, perfect moisture, and lovely color of the Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe. These simple staples come together effortlessly, making the cooking process as enjoyable as the eating.

1 ½ lbs ground beef: The hearty base that provides richness and a meaty texture.
1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix: Adds wonderful herbaceous flavor and soft texture inside the meatloaf.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked inside the meat.
1 egg: The binder that holds your meatloaf together perfectly without crumbling.
1 cup milk: Moistens the stuffing mix for a tender bite throughout.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and gives the meatloaf a savory punch.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor into every slice.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal note that complements the stuffing beautifully.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight all other flavors.
½ cup ketchup: Forms the base of the tangy glaze for a sweet and savory finish.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: Sweetens the glaze while giving it a rich caramel undertone.
1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon): Adds a mild tang and zestiness that makes the glaze unforgettable.

How to Make Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your meatloaf bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked every time. Remember to grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with the milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the stuffing absorbs the milk and softens perfectly. This step is crucial because it guarantees the stuffing blends seamlessly into the meat mixture, adding moisture and flavor without any dryness.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf

Next, add your ground beef, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, and salt and pepper to the softened stuffing mixture. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix everything together until just combined. Be gentle — overmixing can make your meatloaf dense. This blend of ingredients is the heart of the Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe, creating a tender yet flavorful loaf.

Step 4: Form the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently so it forms a compact loaf shape that will hold together while baking. This step sets the stage for an evenly cooked meatloaf with a beautiful shape and structure.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. This tangy glaze will give the meatloaf a glossy, flavorful topping that caramelizes slightly during baking, creating a delicious contrast to the savory meat inside.

Step 6: Bake

Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures the meatloaf is cooked through but still juicy and tender, a hallmark of the Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice moist and tender instead of crumbly. Then, slice and get ready to enjoy a truly comforting meal.

How to Serve Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the slices for a burst of color and freshness. If you want an extra touch of indulgence, a dollop of creamy horseradish sauce or a smear of Dijon mustard on the side brings a nice kick that complements the tangy glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery roasted vegetables. A crisp green salad or some steamed green beans add a fresh contrast that balances the richness of the meatloaf perfectly. Don’t hesitate to add a warm dinner roll or two to sop up every last bit of that luscious glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve the meatloaf right from the loaf pan with sides arranged around it. If you’re hosting a gathering, slice it neatly and stack slices on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and surrounded by seasonal vegetables. You could even make mini meatloaves in muffin tins using this recipe for a fun, individualized serving option at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your leftover Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect leftover for a quick lunch or dinner.

Freezing

To enjoy this dish at a later date, wrap the cooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It keeps well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) covered with foil to keep the meatloaf moist. Adding a little extra glaze or a splash of broth while reheating helps retain that lovely tangy flavor and moisture integral to this recipe.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Lean ground turkey or chicken works well and makes this Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe a lighter option. Just be sure to watch the baking time as leaner meats may cook faster.

What kind of stuffing mix should I use?

Any variety works, but herb-seasoned stuffing mix with a savory profile pairs best. Avoid overly flavored or specialty stuffing that might overpower the meatloaf’s balanced taste.

Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a signature sweet-tangy layer that enhances the meatloaf’s flavor and gives it a beautiful caramelized finish. You can skip it, but you’ll miss out on that lovely contrast and shine.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can mix the meatloaf ingredients up to a day ahead and store the mixture covered in the fridge. Just add the glaze and bake when ready to enjoy fresh, warm meatloaf.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Once the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C), your Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe is a heartwarming crowd-pleaser that combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish fills the table with joy and satisfying aromas that invite everyone to dig in. Give it a try—once you do, it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen!

Stuffing Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze Recipe

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4.3 from 52 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Stuffing Meatloaf recipe combines traditional ground beef meatloaf with a flavorful stuffing mix for a moist and savory twist. Topped with a tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard, this comforting dish is perfect for hearty family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf

1 ½ lbs ground beef
1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix (any variety)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 egg
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Glaze

½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the stuffing absorbs the milk and softens.
Mix the Meatloaf: Add the ground beef, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the stuffing mixture. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the loaf tender.
Form the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently to shape it into a loaf evenly distributed in the pan.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a flavorful and appealing finish.
Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meat is fully cooked through.
Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for moist slices. Serve with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or your favorite sides.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture to avoid a dense texture.
Letting the meatloaf rest after baking ensures juicier slices.
Feel free to customize the stuffing mix flavor to your preference.
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure safety and doneness.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheat nicely.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American