Cooking a meatloaf is a culinary process that involves baking a ground meat mixture, typically beef, pork, or a combination of both, shaped into a loaf. The cooking time for a meatloaf can vary depending on its size and the specific recipe used. For a 2-pound meatloaf, the general recommended cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes in a preheated oven set to 350F (175C).
The importance of cooking a meatloaf for the correct amount of time lies in ensuring its thorough cooking to eliminate any potential foodborne illnesses associated with undercooked ground meat. Additionally, proper cooking time contributes to the development of the meatloaf’s texture, flavor, and overall quality.