The cooking time for meatloaf depends on its weight and the oven temperature, but here are typical guidelines for cooking meatloaf at 350°F (175°C):
- For a 1-pound meatloaf, cook for about 35 to 45 minutes.
- For a 2-pound meatloaf, cook for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- For a 3-pound meatloaf, cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Always check that the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. In convection ovens, cooking times can be shorter, and the temperature may be slightly lower, around 325°F. Increasing the oven temperature toward the end of cooking and adding a glaze or topping is a common technique to enhance flavor and appearance. Rest the meatloaf for 10-15 minutes after cooking for easier slicing. These times and tips apply to conventional ovens cooking at 350°F to 375°F and are based on the meatloaf's weight and shape.
