What Does the Internal Temperature of Meatloaf Need to Be for Safe Consumption?
A meatloaf needs to reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit before it can be safely consumed. The best method to check the internal temperature of meatloaf and other meats is using a meat thermometer.
Most meatloaf recipes are cooked in an oven that is heated to 350 F. The average cook time for a meatloaf is between 40 and 60 minutes depending on its size. Once meatloaf has reached the right internal temperature, it should be removed from the oven and allowed to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
There are numerous ways in which meatloaf can be prepared, but meatloaf in tomato sauce is one of the most popular and common. Meatloaf can be kicked up a notch with spices like cayenne and fresh jalapeños or sweetened with a brown sugar and honey glaze. Crackers and breadcrumbs are commonly used in meatloaf recipes.
Meatloaf can be safely refrigerated for three to four days if properly covered and stored. Cooked meatloaf can be kept in the freezer for up to four months if stored in plastic wrap or an airtight container. Frozen meatloaf can be thawed in the refrigerator. When reheating leftover meatloaf it is important that it reaches the same internal temperature.
