How Long To Cook Meatloaf At 375?

Meatloaf is an all-time favorite comfort food and a go-to dish for busy weeknights. It's easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and can feed a crowd. However, cooking meatloaf can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to determining how long to cook it.

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of cooking meatloaf at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. We'll discuss how to prepare your meatloaf, what to look for in terms of doneness, and how long you should cook it to ensure a delicious and perfectly cooked meatloaf.

See also: How Long Does Cooked Ground Beef Last In The Fridge?

How Long To Cook Meatloaf At 375?

Preparing Your Meatloaf

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's talk about how to prepare your meatloaf. The first step is to gather all of your ingredients. You'll need ground beef or a combination of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onions, garlic, and your favorite seasonings.

To make your meatloaf, start by mixing together your ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onions, garlic, and seasonings in a large mixing bowl. Mix until all of the ingredients are well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Next, shape your meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish. Spread a layer of ketchup or barbecue sauce on top of the meatloaf, if desired.

Cooking Your Meatloaf

Now, let's talk about how long to cook your meatloaf at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and shape of your meatloaf, as well as your oven's cooking strength.

As a general rule, you should plan on cooking your meatloaf for 45 minutes to 1 hour at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you'll want to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf to ensure that it's fully cooked.

The USDA recommends cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that any harmful bacteria have been destroyed. To check the temperature of your meatloaf, use a meat thermometer to take a reading in the center of the meatloaf. The temperature should read 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Meatloaf

To ensure that your meatloaf is perfectly cooked every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use a mixture of ground beef and pork for a more flavorful and moist meatloaf.
• Don't overwork the meat mixture, as this can result in a tough and dry meatloaf.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your meatloaf, taking a reading in the center of the loaf.
• Let your meatloaf rest for 10 to 15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• Consider using a meatloaf pan with a removable insert to make it easier to remove the meatloaf from the pan and to drain any excess fat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cooking meatloaf at 375 degrees Fahrenheit is a great way to get a delicious meal on the table in no time. By following these tips and guidelines, you'll be able to create a perfectly cooked and flavorful meatloaf that your family will love. So, give it a try and enjoy!