How Long to Cook a 2-Lb Meatloaf at 375°F? Tips for Cooking a Perfect Meatloaf Additional Information Conclusion

Cooking a tender and juicy meatloaf is a culinary art. Time is of the essence, especially when preparing a 2-lb meatloaf. Understanding the ideal cooking time at 375°F is crucial to achieve perfection.

Cooking Duration for a 2-Lb Meatloaf at 375°F

To ensure a perfectly cooked meatloaf, follow this time guideline:

• Total Cooking Time: 1 hour – 1 hour and 15 minutes

Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, adhere to these steps:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) before placing the meatloaf into the baking dish.
2. Insert internal meat thermometer: Insert the probe of an internal meat thermometer into the center of the meatloaf. This ensures accurate temperature readings.
3. Cook until internal temperature is reached: Monitor the internal temperature until it reaches 160°F (71°C) for well-cooked ground beef.
4. Rest before slicing: After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest under a foil tent for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender loaf.

• Choose lean ground beef: A leaner ground beef will produce a less greasy meatloaf.
• Season generously: Add a flavorful blend of herbs and spices to enhance the taste.
• Add moisture: Incorporate breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk to bind the ingredients and keep the meatloaf moist.
• Use a meatloaf pan: A dedicated meatloaf pan distributes heat evenly and prevents the loaf from falling apart.
• Cover with foil: Covering the meatloaf loosely with foil during the first 45 minutes of cooking helps retain moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Meatloaf is dry: This could be due to using too lean ground beef or not adding enough moisture. Consider adding more breadcrumbs, eggs, or milk to the mixture.
2. Meatloaf is falling apart: The meatloaf may be too wet or lack sufficient binding agents. Adjust the ratio of ingredients accordingly or add an egg to bind them together.
3. Meatloaf is undercooked: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached the desired temperature. Extend the cooking time if necessary.

Oven Variations

• Convection Oven: Reduce the cooking time by 25% due to the faster air circulation.
• Gas Oven: Gas ovens tend to heat more evenly, so reduce the cooking time by approximately 10%.

Calorie Information

A 2-lb meatloaf prepared with 80/20 ground beef contains approximately:

• Calories: 1,800
• Fat: 100 grams
• Protein: 150 grams

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat meatloaf by slicing it and microwaving it on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes per slice, or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Cooking a 2-lb meatloaf at 375°F for 1 hour – 1 hour and 15 minutes ensures a juicy and flavorful result. By following the tips and troubleshooting advice outlined in this article, you can consistently achieve the perfect meatloaf every time.