Meatloaf Pan Size: What's The Right Fit?

A 1.5-quart pan is perfect for a meatloaf recipe that serves four to eight people. The Pyrex 1.5-quart glass loaf pan is a good option, as it is durable, easy to clean, and can be used for baking a variety of dishes. It is also safe for use in the oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher.

Meatloaf recipe for a 1.5-quart pan

Ingredients

• 1-1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
• 1/2-1 cup dried bread crumbs or Italian/seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2-1 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 medium onion, diced
• 1-2 tbsp ketchup or chili sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
• 1-2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• Butter or cooking spray, for greasing the pan

Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 1.5-quart loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
• In a small pan, cook the diced onion in a teaspoon of butter over medium-low heat until tender. Allow the onion to cool completely.
• In a medium bowl, combine the bread crumbs, milk, and egg. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes.
• Add the ground beef, cooked onion, ketchup or chili sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
• Transfer the meatloaf mixture to your prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
• In a separate small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce (if using) to make the glaze. Spread the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
• Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes, then add the glaze and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
• Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• You can use crushed crackers instead of bread crumbs.
• For extra flavour, soak the breadcrumbs in milk before adding to the meat mixture.
• If you don't have chili sauce, you can use extra ketchup or BBQ sauce.
• For a crispier exterior, use a baking sheet instead of a loaf pan.
• Always let your meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and prevent it from falling apart.

How to make meatloaf in a crockpot

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, finely minced (or 1 small onion, chopped)
• 2 boxes (6 oz each) dried stuffing mix (or 3/4 cup dry breadcrumbs)
• 1 1/3 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups ketchup
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp finely minced onion
• 1 Tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tsp white vinegar

Method

• Line a 6-quart or larger slow cooker with foil (heavy-duty foil works best). Spray lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
• Combine all meatloaf ingredients in a large bowl. Mix well, then place in the crockpot and shape into a loaf.
• Top with 1/2 cup of the glaze (see below).
• Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 hours.
• Carefully lift out the meatloaf and place on a baking sheet. Top with 2/3 cup of the glaze.
• Broil until the glaze is sticky and bubbly.

Brown Sugar Ketchup Glaze

Combine 1 1/2 cups ketchup, 1/4 cup light brown sugar, 2 Tbsp finely minced onion, 1 Tbsp yellow mustard, 2 tsp white vinegar, and 1/2 tsp black pepper in a small mixing bowl. Whisk to combine.

Tips

• Use beef with a good ratio of beef to fat (e.g. 80/20 or 85/15). Beef that is too lean can lead to a drier meatloaf.
• Avoid over-mixing your meat. Mix until the ingredients are just combined to ensure your meatloaf doesn't become tough.
• Use your hands to mix the ingredients. Wear gloves if you don't want to get your hands messy.
• Add a little onion and sauce to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavour and moisture.
• Don't skip the topping! The sweet and tangy sauce takes the meatloaf from good to great.

Meatloaf cooking times

The cooking time for meatloaf depends on its size and the temperature of your oven. A standard meatloaf cooking temperature is 350°F. At this temperature, you should cook your meatloaf for 35 to 45 minutes per pound. For example, a 1-pound meatloaf will take between 35 and 45 minutes to cook, whereas a 2-pound meatloaf will take between 1 hour and 1 hour and 20 minutes.

If you're cooking at a higher temperature of 375°F, a 1-pound meatloaf will take 25 to 30 minutes, a 2-pounder will take 40 to 50 minutes, and a 3-pound meatloaf will take 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.

It's important to note that these cooking times are just estimates, and the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The ideal internal temperature for meatloaf is 160°F.

Additionally, if you're concerned about your meatloaf drying out, you can cover it with foil for the first 45 minutes of cooking and then uncover it for the last 15 minutes to allow the top to brown.

How to store and freeze meatloaf

Meatloaf is a great dish to make ahead of time and freeze for future dinners. You can prepare multiple meatloaves at once and then stick them in the freezer. Here are some tips on how to store and freeze meatloaf:

Refrigerating Meatloaf:

If you have time to prepare the meatloaf today but don't plan on eating it until tomorrow, you can place the uncooked meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. Some cooks believe this improves the flavor of the finished dish. Just be sure to wrap or cover the loaf tightly before refrigerating.

If you'd rather bake the meatloaf ahead of time, make sure to cool it completely before wrapping and placing it in the fridge. The meatloaf should be baked and eaten within a day or two. For anything longer than two days, you will need to place the meatloaf in the freezer.

Freezing Meatloaf:

You can freeze meatloaf either before or after cooking. The ground beef mixture can be combined, formed into a loaf, and frozen raw or cooked.

To freeze an uncooked meatloaf, mix and assemble the meatloaf according to your recipe, then cover and freeze it in the pan for 24 hours. After that, remove the frozen loaf from the pan, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and place it in an airtight freezer bag. Raw meatloaf should last up to six months in the freezer.

To freeze a cooked meatloaf, let it cool completely, then cut it into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Cooked meatloaf can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating Frozen Meatloaf:

To cook a frozen raw meatloaf, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it as directed by your recipe. If you didn't have time to thaw it, simply bake the meatloaf at the temperature called for in the recipe but for 1 1/2 to 2 times longer than directed. Always check the internal temperature of the meatloaf with a meat thermometer to ensure it's safe to eat.

To reheat a frozen cooked meatloaf, remove the wrapping and place it in the oven at 350°F for about 1 1/2 hours, or until it reaches the appropriate internal temperature. You can also reheat it in the microwave; it should only take a few minutes. Covering the meatloaf with a damp paper towel will prevent it from drying out.

Meatloaf serving suggestions

Meatloaf is a hearty, comforting classic that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. There are several side dishes that can complement and elevate the flavours and textures of meatloaf. Here are some suggestions:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The smooth, creamy texture of mashed potatoes is a perfect contrast to the hearty, dense bite of meatloaf. It is a classic combination that never fails to satisfy.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted carrots, green beans, and bell peppers add a vibrant burst of colour to your plate. The caramelized edges of these roasted veggies bring out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the savoury notes of the meatloaf.

For an extra kick of flavour, you can infuse your green beans with garlic. The tender-crisp beans with a hint of garlic will offer a refreshing, palate-cleansing element to balance the richness of the meatloaf.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad can also provide a nice contrast to meatloaf. The crisp lettuce, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons will lighten up your meal and provide a refreshing break from the dense texture of the meatloaf.

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is another classic comfort food that pairs wonderfully with meatloaf. The cheesy goodness of mac and cheese complements the meatloaf, creating a satisfying and indulgent meal.

Potato Sides

Potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in a variety of ways to accompany your meatloaf. Here are some ideas:

• Super Crispy Smashed Potatoes: Simply smash baby gold potatoes and season them with butter, salt, and pepper.
• Herbed Potato Stacks: These elegant stacks are easy to prepare and can be baked in a muffin pan to maintain their shape.
• Roasted Fingerling Potatoes: These slender potatoes are a perfect side for any meal. Just make sure they are firm and free of any softness or bruising.
• Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes: For this decadent dish, it is recommended to use Yukon Gold potatoes for the best consistency.

Other Vegetable Sides

In addition to potatoes and roasted veggies, here are some more vegetable-based sides to consider:

• Oven-Roasted Corn on the Cob: A classic side that is always a welcome addition to any dinner, regardless of the season.
• Green Bean Almondine: Don't be fooled by the name—this classic French side dish is easy to prepare and comes together in just 25 minutes.
• Broccoli: Add a pop of colour to your plate with roasted broccoli. Just ensure that the broccoli pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
• Asparagus with Cheese Sauce and Herb Breadcrumbs: Asparagus is transformed into a decadent side dish with a rich cheese sauce and breadcrumbs. You can also try making an asparagus gratin for a different take on this vegetable.
• Creamed Corn Mac and Cheese: Add a touch of fresh basil to this creamy, comforting side dish.
• Smoky-Sweet Baked Beans: This wholesome dish perfectly complements meatloaf, and the grated sweet potato adds a healthy boost of flavour.

Frequently asked questions