The cooking time for meatloaf depends primarily on its weight and the oven temperature:
- At 350°F (175°C):
- A 1 lb meatloaf takes about 35 to 45 minutes.
- A 2 lb meatloaf takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- A 3 lb meatloaf takes about 1 hour and a half to 2 hours.
- At 375°F (190°C):
- A 1 lb meatloaf takes about 25 to 30 minutes.
- A 2 lb meatloaf takes about 40 to 50 minutes.
- A 3 lb meatloaf takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The key to perfectly cooked meatloaf is to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C), which can be checked with a meat thermometer
. For example, a common approach is to bake a 2 lb meatloaf at 350°F for about 55-65 minutes, then optionally add a glaze and bake for an additional 15-30 minutes until fully cooked
. Some recipes suggest baking uncovered and letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture
. In summary, plan roughly 35-45 minutes per pound at 350°F, adjusting time based on loaf size and oven temperature, and always confirm doneness with a thermometer.
