How Long Do You Cook Meatloaf in the Oven for Juicy Results?

Cooking the perfect meatloaf can feel like a balancing act. You want it juicy and tender but fully cooked through. Knowing exactly how long to cook meatloaf in the oven is key to getting that ideal texture and flavor every time.

Oven temperature and the size of your meatloaf both affect cooking time, so it’s important to find the right balance. Whether you’re making a classic family recipe or trying something new, understanding the timing will help you avoid undercooked or dry meatloaf.

In this guide, you’ll learn the best cooking times and tips to make sure your meatloaf comes out just right—moist, flavorful, and ready to enjoy.

Understanding Meatloaf Cooking Times

Cooking times vary based on several factors that ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly and retains moisture. You must consider these elements to avoid undercooking or drying out your dish.

Factors Affecting Cooking Duration

Oven temperature and meatloaf size directly affect how long it takes to cook. For example, a 1-pound meatloaf typically cooks at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes. Larger loaves, such as 2 pounds, require about 1 hour and 15 minutes at the same temperature. Using a higher temperature, like 375°F, reduces cooking time but increases the risk of drying out the meat. The shape also matters—thinner, wider meatloaves cook faster than thick, narrow ones. Ingredients like vegetables or fillers can alter cooking time by retaining moisture or increasing density.

Importance of Internal Temperature

Cooking meatloaf to the correct internal temperature guarantees safety and optimizes texture and flavor. The USDA recommends cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F. Using a meat thermometer, insert it into the center of the loaf for an accurate reading. Avoid relying solely on time since factors such as oven variations and meat composition affect doneness. Reaching 160°F ensures bacteria like E. coli are eliminated while maintaining juiciness. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow juices to redistribute evenly throughout the loaf.

How Long Do You Cook Meatloaf in the Oven?

Cooking time depends on your oven temperature, meatloaf size, and shape. Understanding these variables ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly and stays juicy.

General Cooking Time Guidelines

Set your oven to 350°F for consistent results. Cook a 1-pound meatloaf between 45 and 50 minutes. Increase the time according to weight, keeping an internal temperature target of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness. Avoid temperatures above 375°F to prevent drying. Rest your meatloaf for 10 minutes after cooking for optimal juiciness.

Cooking Times Based on Meatloaf Size and Shape

Adjust cooking time based on the meatloaf’s weight and form:

Meatloaf Weight	Shape	Cooking Time	Internal Temp
1 pound	Loaf or oval	45–50 minutes	160°F
1.5 pounds	Loaf	55–60 minutes	160°F
2 pounds	Loaf or oval	1 hour 10–15 minutes	160°F
2 pounds	Thick round or dense	1 hour 20–25 minutes	160°F

A thicker, denser shape takes longer to cook than a flatter loaf. Flattening a larger meatloaf decreases cooking time but watch for overcooking edges. Include vegetables or binders, as they can slightly increase cooking duration. Always measure internal temperature at the center to ensure safety and quality.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Meatloaf

Follow these tips to ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly, stays juicy, and reaches the safe internal temperature without drying out.

Using a Meat Thermometer

Always use a meat thermometer to check your meatloaf’s internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the loaf, avoiding any fillings or pans. Your meatloaf is safe and perfectly cooked when it reaches 160°F. Relying on time alone can lead to undercooking or dryness, but the thermometer guarantees accuracy.

Covering vs. Uncovering the Meatloaf

Cover your meatloaf with foil during the first two-thirds of the cooking time to retain moisture and prevent drying. Remove the foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes to allow browning and crisping of the crust. Leaving it uncovered throughout can cause excessive moisture loss, while keeping it covered the entire time may result in a pale, soft exterior.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Explore different ways to cook meatloaf beyond the oven to suit your time and equipment. Each method affects cooking time and texture, so use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches 160°F internally.

Cooking Meatloaf in a Slow Cooker

Place your shaped meatloaf in the slow cooker insert. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on the size—larger loaves need longer. Cover the meatloaf with the lid to retain moisture, preventing dryness. For a browned crust, briefly broil the cooked meatloaf in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes after slow cooking. Using the slow cooker yields a tender, juicy texture but takes significantly longer than baking.

Using an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker

Set your Instant Pot or pressure cooker to manual high pressure for 20 to 30 minutes, based on the meatloaf size (1 to 2 pounds). Place the meatloaf on a trivet with a cup of water in the pot to create steam. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before quick releasing the remaining pressure. This method drastically cuts cooking time while keeping meatloaf moist. Finish under the broiler for 5 to 10 minutes if a browned crust is desired.

Conclusion

Getting your meatloaf just right comes down to timing, temperature, and checking that internal temperature. By paying attention to these details and using a meat thermometer, you’ll avoid the guesswork and end up with a juicy, flavorful dish every time. Remember to let it rest before slicing to lock in those delicious juices.

Whether you stick to the oven or try alternative methods, the key is ensuring your meatloaf hits that safe 160°F mark. With these tips, you’re well on your way to mastering the perfect meatloaf cooking time and technique. Enjoy the process and the tasty results!