Easy Meatloaf Recipe with Few Ingredients
If you’re craving a comforting, no-fuss dinner that comes together with pantry staples, this easy meatloaf recipe with few ingredients is exactly what you need. This is the kind of recipe busy weeknights are made for, simple, hearty, budget-friendly, and endlessly reliable.
This meatloaf has been on repeat in our kitchen because it checks all the boxes: minimal prep, no chopping, no fancy seasonings, and a rich, savory flavor thanks to a simple BBQ glaze. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, stretching your grocery budget, or just want a classic comfort food without overthinking it, this recipe delivers every time.
Scroll down for the recipe card, followed by detailed step-by-step instructions (with photos).
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Easy Meatloaf Recipe with few Ingredients
Easy Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 6 oz package stuffing mix
- 1 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce divided
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, stuffing mix, water, eggs, and 1/4 cup BBQ sauce.
- Mix just until blended—do not overmix.
- Shape mixture into a loaf and place in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish or loaf pan.
- Spread the remaining 1/4 cup BBQ sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- For leaner meat, use 85/15 ground beef to prevent dryness.
- Letting the meatloaf rest helps it hold together when slicing.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Meatloaf Recipe With Few Ingredients
There are hundreds of meatloaf recipes out there, but most of them require a long list of ingredients—breadcrumbs, milk, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, spices, and more. While those recipes have their place, sometimes you just want simple.
Here’s why this one stands out:
- Uses only 5 main ingredients
- No chopping or sautéing required
- Budget-friendly and filling
- Kid-approved and picky-eater friendly
- Perfect for leftovers and meal prep
- Easy to customize if desired
Ingredients You’ll Need
This easy meatloaf recipe with few ingredients relies on pantry staples you may already have on hand:
- 2 pounds ground beef – Use 80/20 or 85/15 for best flavor and moisture
- 1 package stuffing mix – Acts as both binder and seasoning
- 1 cup water – Helps hydrate the stuffing mix and keep the meatloaf moist
- 2 eggs – Binds everything together
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, divided – Adds flavor and creates a caramelized topping
That’s it. No extra spices, no fillers, no complicated steps.
How to Make Easy Meatloaf With Few Ingredients
This recipe couldn’t be simpler, which makes it perfect for beginner cooks or anyone short on time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish or a standard loaf pan with cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, stuffing mix, water, eggs, and 1/4 cup of the BBQ sauce.
Mix gently just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing!
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking dish or loaf pan. Shape it gently into a loaf if using a baking dish.
Step 4: Add the BBQ Topping
Spread the remaining 1/4 cup BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together and keeps it juicy.
Tips for the Best Easy Meatloaf
- Don’t overmix: Overworking the meat can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Use the right fat ratio: Lean beef can dry out; a little fat adds flavor and moisture.
- Let it rest: Resting time makes a big difference in texture.
Easy Meatloaf Variations (Optional)
While this recipe is designed to be simple, you can customize it if you’d like:
- Add 1/2 cup diced onion or bell pepper for extra flavor
- Swap BBQ sauce for ketchup or a ketchup-BBQ blend
- Mix in shredded cheese for a richer meatloaf
What to Serve With Meatloaf
This easy meatloaf recipe with few ingredients pairs well with classic comfort sides:
- Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- Green beans or corn
- Simple garden salad
- Homemade biscuits or sandwich bread
Leftovers also make excellent meatloaf sandwiches the next day.
How to Store and Reheat Meatloaf
To store:
Allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze:
Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat:
Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave individual slices.
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Having the right kitchen tools makes simple recipes even easier. Here are a few essentials for making this easy meatloaf recipe with few ingredients:
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. You can assemble the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Absolutely. Ground turkey, venison, or rabbit can be used, but you may want to add a little oil or fat to prevent dryness.
Any standard boxed stuffing mix works well. Chicken-flavored stuffing is a popular choice. Even homemade stuffing works!
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
This recipe already makes a large meatloaf, but you can divide it into two smaller loaves if preferred.
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This easy meatloaf recipe with few ingredients is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you can put a hearty, homemade dinner on the table that everyone will love.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, stocking your freezer, or just craving a classic, this simple meatloaf is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
