Grandma’s Secret Ingredient Meatloaf

Growing up, we went to Grandma’s place a lot. As a kid, we always hoped she would make meatloaf. Hers always tasted better than what our mom called meatloaf. Grandma had a special ingredient she used in her recipe, and I finally found out what it was!

Of course, my kids scowled when they saw meatloaf was for dinner. Then I told them it was their great grandma’s recipe, they jumped up and down in excitement.

They were lucky enough to know grandma and actually loved her meatloaf. They would eat it every day if they could!

If you’re searching for the best grandmas secret ingredient meatloaf recipe, this is the one! It actually is the best. Not only that, it’s an easy grandmas secret ingredient meatloaf for beginners. So, even if you’re new to cooking in the kitchen, you can prepare this quick grandmas secret ingredient meatloaf recipe without a hassle. Once you have this one down, you won’t be going back to the same, boring meatloaf anymore!

This meatloaf is so easy to make, and the secret ingredient is nothing fancy, but it sure tastes wonderful! A simple box of stuffing mix is mixed with ground beef, egg, and water.

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unlike other meatloaf recipes, this one does not include ingredients that you are trying to hide to get the kids to eat. This one is simple and tastes fantastic.

It’s extremely family-friendly and quick. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, I promise you’ll get this one right!

It uses basic staple ingredients that can be found in your pantry, along with traditional ground beef.

You can prepare this meatloaf in a matter of minutes, so you can spend more time focusing on which sides you’re going to serve alongside the loaf!

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Egg
• Water
• Stuffing mix

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Onions: While this recipe does not explicitly call for onions, you could add in onions if you wanted, if you prefer the texture. If you’re craving an onion taste but do not want the texture of onions, try a bit of onion powder! However, this recipe calls solely for the addition of stuffing mix, which is a powerhouse of flavor.

You can also brush a layer of ketchup or barbecue sauce on the top to give it a slight tang. These are just suggestions, as we find this family friendly grandmas secret ingredient meatloaf perfect as it is! And, it’s also kid-tested and approved!

Ground beef: Swap fattier ground beef for 90/10 beef or ground turkey if you’re looking for a healthy grandmas secret ingredient meatloaf version that works for your family.

Stuffing mix: I highly recommend keeping the stuffing mix in this recipe, as it’s the main star of the show. Without the stuffing mix, you’re making a traditional meatloaf, which typically requires additional seasonings. Choose the chicken stuffing mix for the best results, in my opinion!

How to make Grandma’s Secret Ingredient Meatloaf:

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare the other ingredients called for in this recipe while you’re waiting for your oven to preheat.

Step 2. In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients, kneading with your hands until well combined. Using your hands is best, as it allows for more control to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed and mashed together.

Add the ground beef.

Add the egg.

Add the stuffing mix.

Add the water.

Step 3. Form the mixture into the shape of a loaf and place it into a 9×13 baking dish. It’s best to use a traditional loaf pan or a non-stick pan. If your loaf pan is older, you may want to grease it with butter, oil, or a nonstick spray that works for you.

Step 4. Bake for 45-50 minutes until cooked through. Allow the meatloaf to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting and serving it! This ensures the flavors are well-blended and ready to enjoy.

SAVE this recipe on Pinterest for later 🙂

Tips for Success

Use a ground beef with fat, such as 80/20, for the best flavor. Keep in mind, the fattier your ground beef, the more grease it will produce. It’s best to stick to 80/20 or 90/10, for an even healthier version of this recipe.

Choose between chicken and beef stuffing mix, depending on your favorite flavors!

Storage & Reheating

How should I store this meatloaf?

Once grandma’s secret ingredient meatloaf is cooled to room temperature, you can place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze Grandma’s secret ingredient meatloaf?

This meatloaf is freezer friendly! You can cool it completely, wrap it tightly or put it into a freezer-safe container and set it in the freezer. You can store the meatloaf in the freezer for 3 to 4 months.

How should I reheat the meatloaf?

Place this quick grandmas secret ingredient meatloaf recipe on a baking tray with sides, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and place it in a preheated 350-degree oven. Reheat for 10 to 12 minutes or until heated through. You could also use the microwave to reheat the meatloaf.

Serving Suggestions

Classic meatloaf is often served with potatoes and a delicious vegetable. If you’re searching for sides for this simple grandmas secret ingredient meatloaf meal, read on. I recommend trying our Italian green beans, air fryer green beans, or even a potato dish as the perfect pairing for this loaf of meat! You can also try our baked garlic potato wedges or loaded baked potato salad, if you’re in the mood! Traditional mashed potatoes are also oh-so-yummy with grandma’s meatloaf, whether boxed or homemade!

Notes

This is one of those homemade grandmas secret ingredient meatloaf ideas that is sure to live on! Even if you’re not a fan of traditional meatloaf, you’ve got to give this one a try!

More Meatloaf dinner ideas?

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf – Cue this recipe of awesomeness.

Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf – This meatloaf is loaded with taste and we actually look forward to nights when meatloaf is on the menu.

Mini Meatloaf Muffins – Whatever the reason, these little muffins always seem to disappear fast!

Brown Sugar Meatloaf – Moist, delicious meatloaf encased in a brown sugar glaze.