Gather your appetite for an enticing journey through flavors and textures. This stuffed meatloaf recipe is not your conventional meatloaf. The surprise element here is the stuffing, which gives a delightful twist to the traditional recipe. The combination of meatloaf meat, green apples, and cream of mushroom soup creates a unique savory experience that will have you craving for more.
Two ingredients that might not be commonly found in your pantry are the herb seasoned stuffing mix and the cream of mushroom soup. The stuffing mix, typically used for stuffed turkeys, adds a delightful crunch and herb-infused tanginess to the meatloaf. The cream of mushroom soup is not just for sipping but also serves as a rich and creamy topping that enhances the overall flavor.
Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe Ingredients Explained
Beef, veal, and pork meatloaf meat mix: This is a combination of three types of ground meat, providing a variety of textures and flavors.
Green apples: These add a bit of tartness to contrast the savory meat.
White onion: A staple in many recipes, it provides a base flavor.
Herb seasoned stuffing mix: This adds texture and seasoning to the meatloaf.
Celery: This adds a slight crunch and fresh taste.
Milk: This helps to bind the ingredients together.
Water: This is used to keep the meatloaf moist and juicy.
Eggs: These act as a binding agent for the mixture.
Garlic powder: This adds a subtle hint of garlic flavor.
Salt: This enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Black pepper: This adds a little kick to the meatloaf.
Cream of mushroom soup: This serves as a rich, creamy topping that enhances the flavor.
One reader, Christiane Robles says:
This stuffed meatloaf recipe is a game-changer! The combination of meat, apples, and stuffing mix creates a burst of flavors in every bite. The cream of mushroom soup adds a creamy and savory touch. It's a family favorite and always a hit at gatherings. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Preparing Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe
How to mix the meatloaf: Combine the meatloaf meat, apples, onion, stuffing mix, celery, milk, water, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until evenly combined.
How to spread the cream of mushroom soup: Evenly spread the cream of mushroom soup into a 9x5-inch loaf pan before adding the meat mixture.
How to bake the meatloaf: Bake the meatloaf in a preheated 350°F oven for 1½ hours, or until it is no longer pink in the center. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F.
How to cool the meatloaf: Allow the meatloaf to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes before flipping it onto a serving platter.
How to serve: Serve and enjoy the delicious stuffed meatloaf!
How To Make Meatloaf Stuffing
Savor a creamy twist to this meatloaf stuffing by layering cream of mushroom soup. This filling dish is made with apples and celery for an added crunch.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbsbeef, veal, and pork meatloaf meat mix
- 2green apples,peeled, cored, and diced
- 1small white onion,diced
- 1cupherb seasoned stuffing mix,such as Pepperidge Farm® Herb-Seasoned Stuffing, crushed
- 3celery stalks,diced
- ½cupmilk
- ½cupwater
- 2eggs
- 1tspgarlic powder
- ¾tspsalt
- ¼tspblack pepper,ground
- 10¾ozcream of mushroom soup,(1 can)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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Mix meatloaf meat, apples, onion, stuffing mix, celery, milk, water, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper together in a bowl until ingredients are evenly combined.
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Spread cream of mushroom soup into a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Spoon meat mixture into the loaf pan and use a spatula to gently flatten the top of the loaf.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 1½ hours until no longer pink in the center. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160 degrees F. Cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes.
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Flip meatloaf pan upside-down onto a serving platter so the cream of mushroom soup is on the top of the loaf.
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Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 300.75kcal
- Fat: 10.66g
- Saturated Fat: 3.67g
- Trans Fat: 0.30g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.31g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.23g
- Carbohydrates: 21.97g
- Fiber: 2.88g
- Sugar: 8.43g
- Protein: 29.33g
- Cholesterol: 126.89mg
- Sodium: 740.93mg
- Calcium: 76.26mg
- Potassium: 672.14mg
- Iron: 3.27mg
- Vitamin A: 42.91µg
- Vitamin C: 1.49mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Stuffed Meatloaf
When preparing the meatloaf, it's crucial to not overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough loaf. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until they are just mixed together. This will ensure your meatloaf is moist and tender. Additionally, for a more flavorful loaf, consider sautéing the onion and celery before adding them to the mix. This will release their natural sugars and add a depth of flavor to the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Stuffed Meatloaf
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the ingredients the night before, so when it's time to cook, everything is ready to go.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop vegetables and mix ingredients for the meatloaf, saving time and effort.
Bake multiple loaves: Consider making multiple meatloaves and freezing the extras for future quick and easy meals.
One-pan cooking: Consider making the meatloaf in a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan to reduce cooking time and simplify the process.
Pre-cut ingredients: Purchase pre-cut vegetables and pre-mixed meatloaf meat to save time on preparation.
Substitute Ingredients For Meatloaf Stuffing Recipe
beef, veal, and pork meatloaf meat mix - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to the meatloaf mix, and it can provide a healthier option while still maintaining the meaty flavor and texture.
green apples - Substitute with pear: Pears have a similar sweet and slightly tart flavor to green apples, and they can provide a delicious fruity contrast to the savory meatloaf.
herb seasoned stuffing mix - Substitute with breadcrumbs mixed with dried herbs: This substitute can provide a similar herby flavor and texture to the stuffing mix, and it allows for more control over the seasoning.
celery stalks - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other ingredients in the stuffed meatloaf recipe.
cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with homemade mushroom sauce: Making a homemade mushroom sauce allows for better control over the ingredients and can result in a richer, more flavorful sauce for the stuffed meatloaf.
Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Meatloaf
Elevate the plating: When presenting the stuffed meatloaf, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add color and vibrancy to the dish. Consider using a circular mold to shape the meatloaf into a perfect round, and carefully place it in the center of the plate.
Incorporate texture: Add a textural element to the dish by serving the stuffed meatloaf alongside a crispy potato rosti. The contrast between the tender meatloaf and the crispy rosti will elevate the overall dining experience.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika over the meatloaf for a pop of color and a hint of smokiness. This simple yet elegant touch will enhance the visual appeal and add a depth of flavor to the dish.
Sauce with precision: Drizzle a delicate swirl of reduced balsamic glaze on the plate, ensuring that it complements the flavors of the meatloaf without overpowering them. The sauce should be applied with precision to create an artistic presentation.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Every component should be thoughtfully arranged to create a balanced and visually stunning presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Stuffed Meatloaf
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing.
Meatloaf pan: A specialized pan used for baking meatloaf, typically rectangular in shape.
Spatula: Used for spreading and smoothing the meatloaf mixture in the pan.
Instant-read thermometer: Used to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf to ensure it is fully cooked.
Oven: Used for baking the meatloaf.
Serving platter: A large, flat dish used for serving the meatloaf.
Storing and Freezing Stuffed Meatloaf: A Guide
Let the meatloaf cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the meatloaf soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents, and place it in the freezer. The meatloaf will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, unwrap the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If the meatloaf is still frozen, it may take longer to reheat.
For best results, slice the meatloaf before reheating. This will help the slices heat more evenly and quickly. Place the slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
If you have leftover cream of mushroom soup, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the soup in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Serve the reheated meatloaf slices with the warm soup on top.
How To Reheat Leftover Stuffed Meatloaf
The best way to reheat leftover stuffed meatloaf is to slice it into individual portions and place them in a baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the meatloaf while ensuring even heating.
Another option is to reheat the meatloaf slices in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of beef broth or water to the skillet and place the meatloaf slices in a single layer. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the meatloaf is warmed through. The added liquid will help to keep the meatloaf moist during reheating.
For a quick and convenient method, you can also reheat individual slices of meatloaf in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the meatloaf is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the meatloaf, as it can quickly dry out in the microwave.
If you have leftover cream of mushroom soup from the original recipe, you can spoon it over the meatloaf slices before reheating to add extra moisture and flavor. This works well with both the oven and stovetop methods.
To add a crispy texture to your reheated meatloaf, you can place the slices under the broiler for a minute or two after heating them through using one of the above methods. Keep a close eye on the meatloaf to prevent burning, and remove it from the broiler once the top has a nice golden-brown color.
Interesting Trivia About Stuffed Meatloaf
The meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a versatile dish that can be customized with various fillings and seasonings to suit different tastes and preferences. Meatloaf is a popular choice for family dinners and gatherings, and it is often served with mashed potatoes and vegetables. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a convenient option for leftovers. Meatloaf is a great way to make use of ground meats and pantry staples, and it is a dish that can be easily adapted to accommodate different dietary restrictions and preferences.
Is Making Stuffed Meatloaf at Home Cost-Effective?
This stuffed meatloaf recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The combination of beef, veal, and pork with green apples and herb seasoned stuffing mix offers a satisfying and hearty meal. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making it budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering its affordability and the delightful flavors it brings to the table.
Is Stuffed Meatloaf Healthy or Unhealthy?
The stuffed meatloaf recipe, while comforting and flavorful, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The meatloaf mix contains a combination of beef, veal, and pork, which can be high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
- The recipe calls for cream of mushroom soup, which is often high in sodium and contains processed ingredients.
- The stuffing mix and the breadcrumbs add additional sodium and refined carbohydrates to the dish.
- The recipe lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for leaner meats such as ground turkey or chicken breast, or use a higher ratio of vegetables to meat in the loaf mixture.
- Replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade mushroom gravy using low-sodium broth, fresh mushrooms, and a small amount of cream or milk.
- Swap the stuffing mix for whole-grain breadcrumbs or rolled oats to increase the fiber content and reduce the sodium.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the meatloaf mixture, such as grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient content and add moisture to the loaf.
- Serve the meatloaf with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables to create a more balanced and nutritious meal.
Editor's Opinion on This Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe
This stuffed meatloaf recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of meatloaf mix, apples, and herb seasoned stuffing creates a flavorful and moist meatloaf. The addition of cream of mushroom soup adds a creamy and savory element to the dish. The recipe is easy to follow and results in a comforting and satisfying meal. It's a great option for a family dinner or a special gathering.
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Why trust this Meatloaf Stuffing Recipe:
This stuffed meatloaf recipe is a true comfort food classic, combining a flavorful blend of beef, veal, and pork with the sweetness of green apples and the aromatic touch of onion. The addition of herb seasoned stuffing mix and celery adds texture and depth of flavor. The use of cream of mushroom soup not only enhances the taste but also keeps the meatloaf moist. With a perfect blend of garlic powder and black pepper, this recipe promises a delicious and satisfying meal that will surely become a family favorite.
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