Follow these Test Kitchen tips and you'll never have to worry about serving overcooked or undercooked meatloaf again.
By
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/katlyn-moncada-headshot-38764023fdf34bf7a8cf82c97da87741.jpg "Here's the Internal Temperature That Means Your Meatloaf Is Done (1)")
Katlyn Moncada is the associate food editor at BHG.com, sharing food news and tutorials on becoming better home cooks. She is a writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience in digital media, photography, and video production.
Updated on December 1, 2023
Mom's meatloaf recipe is legendary. So, why doesn't it taste the same when you recreate it? You may be missing just one key element—the perfect meatloaf temperature. It's hard to see how cooked ground beef is when it's covered in sauce, but the proper internal temperature can mean the difference between a dry, overcooked meatloaf and a deliciously moist, comforting main dish. But if you err on the side of caution and pull your meatloaf early, the undercooked meat could be downright unsafe to eat. Fortunately, our Test Kitchen's advice can guide you to ideal doneness. Once you know the correct internal temperature, you'll be making tender, juicy homemade loaves in no time—and logging some legendary meals of your own.
:strip_icc()/the-best-meatloaf-RU202964-fe3424152d3c46c1a8c1d09083174fc5.jpg "Here's the Internal Temperature That Means Your Meatloaf Is Done (2)")
How to Tell When Meatloaf Is Done
Checking the color of a cooked ground meat mixture to determine doneness is unreliable. Instead, our Test Kitchen (and the USDA) recommends using a meat thermometer to check the meatloaf's internal temperature. Choose your favorite meatloaf recipe and set the oven to the cooking temperature specified. Toward the end of the cooking time (our standard two-pound meatloaf takes about one hour), follow this simple method to know when it's done.
- Use an instant-read thermometer ($18, Walmart). The meat loaf's internal temperature should register 160°F when the thermometer is inserted into the center.
- Alternatively, use an oven-safe thermometer that can be placed in the meatloaf before it goes into the oven. Insert the stem of the thermometer into the thickest part of the meatloaf and make sure that the tip is not touching the pan.
Now that you know how to tell when your meatloaf is done, discover some new recipes for easy weeknight dinners. Once you've mastered the technique, move on from the classic recipe and make a taco night-inspired meatloaf in your slow cooker. Or, make it taste like spaghetti and meatballs with a family-friendly Italian twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best temperature to cook meatloaf?
Most experts recommend setting your oven to 350°F when cooking meatloaf. Too low and your meatloaf won’t develop that caramelized crust that makes meatloaf so delicious. A higher temperature may cause the outer layer to overcook or burn by the time the internal temperature comes to 160°F.
How long does it take to cook meatloaf per pound?
In a conventional (not convection) oven set to 350°F, a meatloaf takes about 35 to 45 minutes per pound. That means a 2-pound meatloaf will take about 1 hour to an hour and 30 minutes depending on the thickness and ingredients in the mixture.
Do I need to cover my meatloaf when cooking it?
Covering your meatloaf is a matter of preference. When you cover a meatloaf, the meat cooks more evenly thanks to the steam trapped inside the pan. The foil or lid also helps the meat retain its moisture, which is useful when cooking with lean meats (like chicken or turkey). On the other hand, if you cook your meatloaf uncovered, the excess moisture will evaporate, resulting in a firmer meatloaf with a crispy crust and caramelized glaze. To strike a happy balance (especially with lean meats), our Test Kitchen recommends you cover your meatloaf with foil for only the first 35 minutes to keep it from drying out.
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
Tell us why!
