If you’re wondering how long to cook meatloaf at 375, you’ve come to the right place! In this informative article, we’ll explore the ideal cooking time for meatloaf, along with some helpful tips and an easy recipe. So, let’s dive right in!
What Is Meatloaf?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of cooking meatloaf, let’s first understand what this delicious dish is all about. Meatloaf is a versatile dish made from a mixture of ground meat and seasonings. It may sound a bit strange if you haven’t tried it, but trust me, a good, properly cooked meatloaf is a flavor explosion!
Cooking Time and Temperature for Meatloaf
So, how long should you cook meatloaf at 375? For a 1-pound meatloaf made with traditional ground beef or pork, it generally takes about 25-30 minutes. The key is to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 160ºF (71ºC) for beef or pork meatloaf. This will give you the perfect balance of moistness without any raw or soggy meat.
If you’re working with a poultry-based meatloaf, such as one made with ground chicken or turkey, you’ll need to cook it for a little longer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC), which usually takes about 30-35 minutes.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
Several factors can affect the cooking time of your meatloaf, apart from the size and type of meat. Let’s explore them briefly:
Size
The size and thickness of your meatloaf will directly impact the cooking time. A larger and thicker meatloaf will naturally take longer to cook through, while a smaller and thinner one will cook more quickly. So, keep this in mind when shaping and sizing your meatloaf.
Type of Meat
The type of meat you choose for your meatloaf will also affect the cooking time. Ground beef and pork are popular choices, but you can experiment with other meats like chicken or even go vegetarian. Keep in mind that poultry-based meatloaves often require a longer baking time compared to beef or pork.
Cooking Times for Larger Meatloaves
If you’re working with a larger meatloaf weighing around 2 pounds, you’ll need to bake it for about 40-50 minutes. For a 3-pound meatloaf, the cooking time ranges from 1 hour to 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes). Always remember to check the internal temperature to ensure thorough cooking.
Tips for a Simple, Easy Meatloaf Recipe
Here are a few handy tips to enhance your meatloaf cooking experience:
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Wear gloves when handling raw meat for safety and to prevent cross-contamination.
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You can substitute pork or beef mince with each other according to your preference.
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If you notice any scorching, it may be due to an oven hot spot. Check out tips on dealing with hot spots in your oven.
FAQs
What can you serve with meatloaf?
Meatloaf pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include roasted potatoes, mashed seasoned potatoes, or even a fresh salad like Ensalada Rusa (Russian Potato Salad).
Should you bake meatloaf covered or uncovered?
For the recipe we discussed here, there is no need to cover the meatloaf with foil as it bakes sufficiently without drying out. However, if you’re baking a larger 2 or 3-pound meatloaf, it’s a good idea to cover it with foil as a safety measure to prevent dryness.
How long to cook meatloaf at 350?
If you prefer a lower baking temperature of 350, the cooking time will be longer compared to baking at 375. A 1-pound meatloaf will take approximately 35-45 minutes, a 2-pound meatloaf will need 60-80 minutes, and a 3-pound meatloaf will require around 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
That’s all you need to know about cooking meatloaf at 375! Now, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to the test and try out our easy meatloaf recipe. Happy cooking!
