Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that many people love. It is a dish made of ground meat, bread crumbs, eggs, and seasonings, shaped into a loaf and baked in the oven. Meatloaf can be served with mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables, or any other side dish you like. I will show you how to prepare and cook a perfect meatloaf oven temp and time. I will also share some tips and tricks to make your meatloaf moist, flavorful, and delicious.
Meatloaf
Meatloaf has a long and rich history. It originated from Europe, where different versions of meatloaf were made with various meats, grains, and spices. Meatloaf became popular in America during the Great Depression, as it was a cheap and filling way to stretch meat.
Today, meatloaf is still a favorite dish for many families. It is easy to make, versatile, and satisfying. You can use different types of meat, such as beef, pork, turkey, or chicken, and add different ingredients, such as cheese, bacon, mushrooms, or vegetables, to customize your meatloaf.
Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture
To make a classic meatloaf, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1/2 cup of bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup of chopped onion
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried parsley
To prepare the meatloaf mixture, follow these steps:
- In a large bowl, whisk the egg and milk together.
- Add the bread crumbs and stir to moisten.
- Add the onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and parsley, and mix well.
- Add the ground beef and use your hands to gently combine the ingredients. Do not overmix, as this will make the meatloaf tough and dense.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Oven Preheating
Preheating the oven is an important step for cooking meatloaf. It ensures that the oven is hot enough to cook the meatloaf evenly and quickly. It also helps to create a nice crust on the outside of the meatloaf.
The recommended oven temperature for cooking meatloaf is 350°F (177°C). This is a moderate temperature that allows the meatloaf to cook through without drying out or burning. Preheat the oven for at least 15 minutes before putting the meatloaf in.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature for meatloaf depend on several factors, such as the size and shape of the meatloaf, the type of meat used, and the oven accuracy. Therefore, it is best to use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the meatloaf, rather than relying on a fixed time.
The safe internal temperature for cooked ground beef is 160°F (71°C), according to the USDA. However, some people prefer their meatloaf to be more or less cooked, depending on their personal preference. Here are some general guidelines for cooking meatloaf at 350°F (177°C):
- For a 1 1/2 pound meatloaf, cook for about 45 to 60 minutes.
- For a 2 pound meatloaf, cook for about 60 to 75 minutes.
- For a 3 pound meatloaf, cook for about 75 to 90 minutes.
To use a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the meatloaf, avoiding the bottom of the pan. If the temperature reads 160°F (71°C) or higher, the meatloaf is done. If not, return it to the oven and check again after 10 minutes.
Baking the Meatloaf
Baking the meatloaf in the oven is easy and simple. Here are the steps to follow:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for the recommended time, or until the meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C) or higher.
- Halfway through the baking time, you can apply a sauce or a glaze on top of the meatloaf, if you like. Some popular options are ketchup, barbecue sauce, tomato sauce, or gravy. You can also add some cheese, bacon, or herbs for extra flavor and texture.
- If the meatloaf is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.
Resting and Serving
Once the meatloaf is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meatloaf to firm up. Do not cut into the meatloaf right away, as this will cause it to fall apart and lose moisture.
To serve the meatloaf, slice it into thick pieces and transfer to a platter. You can drizzle some extra sauce or gravy over the slices, if you like. Enjoy your meatloaf with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or salad.
FAQ
How do I store leftover meatloaf?
You can store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can microwave it, bake it in the oven, or pan-fry it on the stove.
How do I make meatloaf more moist?
To make meatloaf more moist, you can add some liquid ingredients, such as milk, broth, or tomato sauce, to the meatloaf mixture. You can also use a leaner type of meat, such as turkey or chicken, or add some grated vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to the meatloaf mixture.
How do I make meatloaf more flavorful?
To make meatloaf more flavorful, you can add some spices, herbs, or cheese to the meatloaf mixture. You can also use a flavorful sauce or glaze to top the meatloaf, or add some bacon, mushrooms, or onions to the meatloaf mixture.
