Shirley’s Secret Ingredient Meatloaf

There are few other foods that scream classic comfort food than meatloaf. It really is nostalgic, so simple to make and a crowd pleaser. The classic meatloaf gets a tasty upgrade from Stove Top Stuffing rather than plain, flavourless breadcrumbs. Stuffing mix is a typical pantry staple (and grocery store sale item after the holidays), it’s handy to keep a few boxes on hand to make this tasty meatloaf any day of the week.

When you’re in a hurry and need dinner on the table faster, try using mini loaf pans or muffin pans – cute and fun, giving each person their own personal portion (plus they’re easier to freeze because of their size.)

Add herbs (Italian seasoning works well), finely diced veggies (onions, celery, mushrooms, bell peppers, yellow squash, zucchini, carrots – sautéed lightly in butter before adding) and your favourite BBQ sauce to make it your family’s favourite meal!

INGREDIENTS:

1 Tbsp olive oil

2 lbs ground beef

1 box Stove Top Stuffing Mix

1 cup milk or water

2 large eggs

¼ cup (8 Tbsp) BBQ sauce

INSTRUCTIONS:

1 Tbsp minced garlic

Medium onion, finely chopped (optional)

1 tsp each, salt & pepper

1 Tbsp Italian seasoning (optional)

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350F; lightly grease loaf pan(s) with olive oil.

2. In a large mixing bowl, lightly whisk eggs, add the ground beef, stuffing mix, milk, seasoning, Worcestershire sauce and cooked veggies (if using) and half of the BBQ sauce.

3. Using clean hands or food safe gloves, combine all ingredients until well mixed, do not overmix.

4. Put the meat mixture into your loaf pan(s), pressing evenly into the pan(s).

5. Spread the remaining BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf.

6. Bake in the oven at 350F for an hour or continue baking until meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160F.

7. Remove from the oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Submitted by Joy Fleury

Douglas Easton, CFA Portfolio Manager & Wealth Advisor National Bank Financial

Douglas has over 25 years experience as a discretionary portfolio manager helping his clients achieve their investment goals.