Meatloaf is a classic American dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck party, meatloaf is always a crowd-pleaser. However, cooking meatloaf can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re not sure how long to cook it. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking a meatloaf at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Factors to Consider When Cooking Meatloaf

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the factors that determine how long you should cook a meatloaf. The first factor is the size of the meatloaf. The larger the meatloaf, the longer it will take to cook. A meatloaf that weighs two pounds will take longer to cook than a meatloaf that weighs one pound.

The second factor is the type of meat you’re using. Beef and pork are the most common meats used for meatloaf, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken. The type of meat you use will affect the cooking time as well. For example, turkey meatloaf may cook faster than beef meatloaf.

The third factor is the ingredients you’re using. If you’re adding vegetables like onions or peppers to your meatloaf, it will take longer to cook. Additionally, if you’re using breadcrumbs or oats, the meatloaf may cook faster.

Finally, the type of pan you’re using will also affect the cooking time. A shallow pan will cook the meatloaf faster than a deep pan.

Preparing the Meatloaf

To prepare the meatloaf, you will need ground meat, breadcrumbs or oats, eggs, milk, onions, peppers, and any other ingredients you want to add. Start by mixing the ground meat with the breadcrumbs or oats, eggs, milk, and seasonings. Add in the onions, peppers, and any other vegetables you want to use. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.

Next, shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish. You can also line the baking dish with parchment paper to prevent the meatloaf from sticking. Once you’ve shaped the meatloaf, you can add a glaze on top. Common glazes include ketchup, BBQ sauce, or a mixture of brown sugar and mustard.

Now that the meatloaf is prepared, it’s time to cook it. In the next section, we will guide you through the cooking process.

Cooking the Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the oven is preheated, place the meatloaf in the oven and set the timer for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, check the internal temperature of the meatloaf using a meat thermometer. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit before it’s safe to eat.

If the meatloaf hasn’t reached 160 degrees, continue cooking it for an additional 5-10 minutes and check the temperature again. Repeat this process until the meatloaf reaches the desired internal temperature.

Checking for Doneness

Aside from checking the internal temperature of the meatloaf, there are other ways to determine if it’s cooked all the way through. One way is to look at the color of the meatloaf. It should be brown on the outside, and the juices should run clear on the inside.

Another way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick or knife into the center of the meatloaf. If it comes out clean, the meatloaf is cooked all the way through.

Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make for a more flavorful meatloaf.

Conclusion

Cooking a meatloaf at 375 degrees Fahrenheit is a simple process, as long as you follow the proper steps. Remember to consider the size of the meatloaf, the type of meat you’re using, the ingredients you’re adding, and the type of pan you’re using. Preparing the meatloaf is easy, and the cooking process should take around 45 minutes. Check the internal temperature and color of the meatloaf to ensure it’s cooked all the way through. With these tips, you’re sure to make a delicious meatloaf that’s perfect for any occasion.