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Simple Stove Top Meatloaf Comforting and Easy Recipe

by on April 26, 2025

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Looking for a quick and satisfying meal? My Simple Stove Top Meatloaf recipe has you covered! With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a comforting dish that the whole family will love. I’ll share easy steps, tips for flavor, and storage hacks to make your cooking process smooth. Let’s dive in and create a delicious meatloaf right on your stove!

To make a simple stove top meatloaf, you will need these ingredients: - 1 pound ground beef - 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup whole milk - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 large egg, beaten - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce - 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon) - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme - 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Each ingredient plays a key role in making the meatloaf tasty and moist. Ground beef gives it a hearty flavor. Breadcrumbs help hold it together. Milk adds moisture. Onions and garlic give a nice aroma and taste. The egg binds it all. Worcestershire sauce and mustard enhance the flavor. Salt and pepper bring out the best in the meat. Thyme adds a touch of earthiness. Finally, the ketchup not only tops the meatloaf but also adds a sweet and tangy glaze. Make sure to gather all these items before you start cooking. Having everything ready helps the process run smooth. {{ingredient_image_2}} In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients: - 1 pound ground beef - 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup whole milk - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 large egg, beaten - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce - 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon) - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Use your hands or a fork to mix everything well. This step is key. You want to avoid any dry spots. If you don’t mix well, the meatloaf may not cook evenly. Once your mixture is ready, shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf on a large plate. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the meatloaf in the skillet. Cover it with a lid. Cook for about 30 to 35 minutes. Turn the meatloaf halfway through. This ensures even cooking and browning. After about 20 minutes of cooking, spread ketchup over the top. This adds a nice glaze and flavor. Keep cooking until the meatloaf's internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Once done, transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps the juices stay in the meat, giving you a tasty slice. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley. It adds color and freshness. Enjoy your meal with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies! Resting your meatloaf is very important. Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes helps the juices stay inside. This makes each slice juicy and tasty. If you skip this step, the meatloaf can dry out. Choose a heavy skillet for cooking. A cast iron skillet is great. It heats evenly and gives a nice crust. If you don’t have one, use a non-stick skillet. Just add a little oil to prevent sticking. You can easily boost the flavor of your meatloaf by adding herbs. Fresh parsley, thyme, or even rosemary can change the taste. Just chop them finely and mix them into the meat. If you want to switch up your diet, that's easy too. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These options are leaner and still taste good. You can even try a meatless version with lentils or mushrooms for a unique twist! Pro Tips Use Lean Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture without being too greasy. Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture for added moisture and nutrition. Experiment with Glazes: Try different toppings like BBQ sauce or a mixture of honey and mustard for a unique flavor twist. Resting Time is Key: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices for a more tender bite. {{image_4}} You can switch out ground beef for other meats. Ground turkey or chicken works well. These options are lighter and can taste great. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster. Check the meat’s internal temperature to make sure it’s safe to eat. Adding cheese can create a rich flavor. Try cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey bite. You can also sneak in some veggies. Finely chopped bell peppers or spinach add color and nutrients. Mix them into the meatloaf for a tasty twist. Experiment with spices too. Oregano or paprika can spice things up. Meatloaf pairs well with many sides. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or green beans. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. For a heartier meal, consider buttered corn or roasted carrots. These sides enhance the comfort of meatloaf and make it a full meal. After enjoying your meatloaf, store any leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container for best results. This keeps the meatloaf fresh for about three to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place your meatloaf in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it's warmed through. If you're short on time, the microwave works too. Just slice the meatloaf and heat for 1-2 minutes. Make sure it gets hot all the way through. Enjoy your comforting meal without losing flavor! Cooking meatloaf on the stovetop takes about 30-35 minutes. You want the meatloaf to reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check this. The time may vary based on your heat level and meatloaf size, so keep an eye on it. Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, cook it as usual. This saves time on busy days. If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, try crushed crackers or oats. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. These options will help keep your meatloaf moist while catering to dietary needs. This blog post covered everything you need for a great meatloaf. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for success. You learned about different meat options and flavor enhancements to make your dish unique. Remember to rest your meatloaf before slicing for the best texture. Store any leftovers properly to enjoy later. With these insights, you can confidently create a delicious meatloaf that suits your taste and needs. Enjoy your cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting and Hearty: This meatloaf is the epitome of comfort food, offering a warm and satisfying meal that brings back nostalgic memories.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
  3. Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices, making it versatile for different tastes.
  4. Delicious Leftovers: Meatloaf tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep and sandwiches!

Ingredients

To make a simple stove top meatloaf, you will need these ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef

– 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

– 1/2 cup whole milk

– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 large egg, beaten

– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

– 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Each ingredient plays a key role in making the meatloaf tasty and moist. Ground beef gives it a hearty flavor. Breadcrumbs help hold it together. Milk adds moisture. Onions and garlic give a nice aroma and taste. The egg binds it all. Worcestershire sauce and mustard enhance the flavor. Salt and pepper bring out the best in the meat. Thyme adds a touch of earthiness. Finally, the ketchup not only tops the meatloaf but also adds a sweet and tangy glaze.

Make sure to gather all these items before you start cooking. Having everything ready helps the process run smooth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mixing the Meatloaf

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef

– 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

– 1/2 cup whole milk

– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 large egg, beaten

– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

– 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Use your hands or a fork to mix everything well. This step is key. You want to avoid any dry spots. If you don’t mix well, the meatloaf may not cook evenly.

Forming and Cooking the Meatloaf

Once your mixture is ready, shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf on a large plate. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the meatloaf in the skillet. Cover it with a lid. Cook for about 30 to 35 minutes. Turn the meatloaf halfway through. This ensures even cooking and browning.

Glazing and Finishing Touches

After about 20 minutes of cooking, spread ketchup over the top. This adds a nice glaze and flavor. Keep cooking until the meatloaf’s internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Once done, transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps the juices stay in the meat, giving you a tasty slice. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley. It adds color and freshness. Enjoy your meal with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

Resting your meatloaf is very important. Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes helps the juices stay inside. This makes each slice juicy and tasty. If you skip this step, the meatloaf can dry out.

Choose a heavy skillet for cooking. A cast iron skillet is great. It heats evenly and gives a nice crust. If you don’t have one, use a non-stick skillet. Just add a little oil to prevent sticking.

Flavor Enhancements

You can easily boost the flavor of your meatloaf by adding herbs. Fresh parsley, thyme, or even rosemary can change the taste. Just chop them finely and mix them into the meat.

If you want to switch up your diet, that’s easy too. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These options are leaner and still taste good. You can even try a meatless version with lentils or mushrooms for a unique twist!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Lean Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture without being too greasy.
  2. Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture for added moisture and nutrition.
  3. Experiment with Glazes: Try different toppings like BBQ sauce or a mixture of honey and mustard for a unique flavor twist.
  4. Resting Time is Key: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices for a more tender bite.

Variations

Different Meats

You can switch out ground beef for other meats. Ground turkey or chicken works well. These options are lighter and can taste great. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster. Check the meat’s internal temperature to make sure it’s safe to eat.

Flavor Profiles

Adding cheese can create a rich flavor. Try cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey bite. You can also sneak in some veggies. Finely chopped bell peppers or spinach add color and nutrients. Mix them into the meatloaf for a tasty twist. Experiment with spices too. Oregano or paprika can spice things up.

Serving Suggestions

Meatloaf pairs well with many sides. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or green beans. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. For a heartier meal, consider buttered corn or roasted carrots. These sides enhance the comfort of meatloaf and make it a full meal.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meatloaf, store any leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container for best results. This keeps the meatloaf fresh for about three to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay good for up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place your meatloaf in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s warmed through. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too. Just slice the meatloaf and heat for 1-2 minutes. Make sure it gets hot all the way through. Enjoy your comforting meal without losing flavor!

FAQs

How long does it take to cook meatloaf on the stovetop?

Cooking meatloaf on the stovetop takes about 30-35 minutes. You want the meatloaf to reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check this. The time may vary based on your heat level and meatloaf size, so keep an eye on it.

Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, cook it as usual. This saves time on busy days.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, try crushed crackers or oats. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. These options will help keep your meatloaf moist while catering to dietary needs.

This blog post covered everything you need for a great meatloaf. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for success. You learned about different meat options and flavor enhancements to make your dish unique. Remember to rest your meatloaf before slicing for the best texture. Store any leftovers properly to enjoy later. With these insights, you can confidently create a delicious meatloaf that suits your taste and needs. Enjoy your cookin

To make a simple stove top meatloaf, you will need these ingredients: - 1 pound ground beef - 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup whole milk - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 large egg, beaten - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce - 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon) - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme - 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Each ingredient plays a key role in making the meatloaf tasty and moist. Ground beef gives it a hearty flavor. Breadcrumbs help hold it together. Milk adds moisture. Onions and garlic give a nice aroma and taste. The egg binds it all. Worcestershire sauce and mustard enhance the flavor. Salt and pepper bring out the best in the meat. Thyme adds a touch of earthiness. Finally, the ketchup not only tops the meatloaf but also adds a sweet and tangy glaze. Make sure to gather all these items before you start cooking. Having everything ready helps the process run smooth. {{ingredient_image_2}} In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients: - 1 pound ground beef - 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup whole milk - 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 large egg, beaten - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce - 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon) - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Use your hands or a fork to mix everything well. This step is key. You want to avoid any dry spots. If you don’t mix well, the meatloaf may not cook evenly. Once your mixture is ready, shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf on a large plate. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the meatloaf in the skillet. Cover it with a lid. Cook for about 30 to 35 minutes. Turn the meatloaf halfway through. This ensures even cooking and browning. After about 20 minutes of cooking, spread ketchup over the top. This adds a nice glaze and flavor. Keep cooking until the meatloaf's internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Once done, transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps the juices stay in the meat, giving you a tasty slice. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley. It adds color and freshness. Enjoy your meal with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies! Resting your meatloaf is very important. Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes helps the juices stay inside. This makes each slice juicy and tasty. If you skip this step, the meatloaf can dry out. Choose a heavy skillet for cooking. A cast iron skillet is great. It heats evenly and gives a nice crust. If you don’t have one, use a non-stick skillet. Just add a little oil to prevent sticking. You can easily boost the flavor of your meatloaf by adding herbs. Fresh parsley, thyme, or even rosemary can change the taste. Just chop them finely and mix them into the meat. If you want to switch up your diet, that's easy too. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These options are leaner and still taste good. You can even try a meatless version with lentils or mushrooms for a unique twist! Pro Tips Use Lean Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture without being too greasy. Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture for added moisture and nutrition. Experiment with Glazes: Try different toppings like BBQ sauce or a mixture of honey and mustard for a unique flavor twist. Resting Time is Key: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices for a more tender bite. {{image_4}} You can switch out ground beef for other meats. Ground turkey or chicken works well. These options are lighter and can taste great. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster. Check the meat’s internal temperature to make sure it’s safe to eat. Adding cheese can create a rich flavor. Try cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey bite. You can also sneak in some veggies. Finely chopped bell peppers or spinach add color and nutrients. Mix them into the meatloaf for a tasty twist. Experiment with spices too. Oregano or paprika can spice things up. Meatloaf pairs well with many sides. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or green beans. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. For a heartier meal, consider buttered corn or roasted carrots. These sides enhance the comfort of meatloaf and make it a full meal. After enjoying your meatloaf, store any leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container for best results. This keeps the meatloaf fresh for about three to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place your meatloaf in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it's warmed through. If you're short on time, the microwave works too. Just slice the meatloaf and heat for 1-2 minutes. Make sure it gets hot all the way through. Enjoy your comforting meal without losing flavor! Cooking meatloaf on the stovetop takes about 30-35 minutes. You want the meatloaf to reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check this. The time may vary based on your heat level and meatloaf size, so keep an eye on it. Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, cook it as usual. This saves time on busy days. If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, try crushed crackers or oats. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. These options will help keep your meatloaf moist while catering to dietary needs. This blog post covered everything you need for a great meatloaf. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for success. You learned about different meat options and flavor enhancements to make your dish unique. Remember to rest your meatloaf before slicing for the best texture. Store any leftovers properly to enjoy later. With these insights, you can confidently create a delicious meatloaf that suits your taste and needs. Enjoy your cooking!

Savory Comfort Meatloaf

A hearty and flavorful meatloaf that is perfect for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 2 whole milk
  • 1 2 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 2 freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 2 dried thyme
  • 1 2 ketchup (for topping)
  • 1 to taste fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated, ensuring there are no dry spots.
  • Once the mixture is well mixed, shape it into a loaf. Place the formed meatloaf onto a large plate or baking sheet, and set aside.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small drizzle of oil to ensure the meatloaf doesn’t stick.
  • Carefully place the meatloaf in the skillet. Cover it with a lid and allow it to cook for about 30-35 minutes, turning it halfway through for even cooking and browning.
  • After approximately 20 minutes of cooking, generously spread the ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a flavorful glaze as it continues to cook.
  • Keep cooking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
  • Once fully cooked, transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a more flavorful slice.
  • Just before serving, garnish the meatloaf with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve alongside your favorite side dishes for a hearty meal.

Notes

Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
Keyword beef, comfort food, meatloaf

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