Is it better to cook meatloaf in a loaf pan?
Give the meatloaf space in the pan. Here’s the thing: baking meatloaf in a loaf pan will result in a meat brick. When choosing a baking pan, avoid a small loaf pan or baking dish. Instead, use a sheet pan or a large baking dish and leave some breathing room so the edges will caramelize nicely.
Do you grease loaf pan for meatloaf?
Lightly grease a standard size loaf pan with cooking spray. Add all of the meatloaf ingredients to a large bowl and gently mix everything to combine (without over-working the meat). Add the meat mixture to a loaf pan and gently pat into an even layer.
How many pounds meatloaf in a loaf pan?
Re:Loaf pan size Most meat loaf recipes call for 2 lbs. but if it only calls for 1-1/2 lbs. of meat you could probably get by with an 8×4 loaf pan. Just be sure the top of the meat loaf is about 1/2 inch below the top edge of the pan to prevent grease from running over the edges.
How long and at what temperature do you cook a 3lb meatloaf?
At 350°F a 1 lb meatloaf will take about 35 to 45 minutes for the meatloaf temperature to reach 160°F. A 2 lb meatloaf will take about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes for the meatloaf temperature to reach 160°F. A 3 lb meatloaf will take about 1 hour and a half to 2 hours for the meatloaf temperature to reach 160°F.
Should you drain meatloaf while cooking?
If you bake your meatloaf in a loaf pan, which ensures a moist loaf, consider draining the fat 15 minutes before the end of the cooking time to develop a crisp top. If you cut into a loaf-pan-baked meatloaf while it is still hot, it will fall apart.
Can I bake meatloaf on parchment paper?
Bake meatloaf on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil sprayed with cooking spray to collect moisture and excess fat. This also allows the sides to brown as well as the top.
What can I use instead of a 9×5 loaf pan?
Round Pans
- 6×2 inch round pan holds 4 cups of batter, the same as an 8×4 inch loaf pan.
- 8×2 inch round pan holds 6 cups of batter.
- 9×2 inch round pan holds 8 cups of batter, the same as an 8×2 inch square pan and a 9×5 inch loaf pan.