How to Freeze MeatLoaf

Freeze meatloaf for a quick meal for another day.

A meatloaf dish contains ground meat formed into a loaf shape, which is then baked or smoked. The meat can consist of virtually any ground meat such as beef, lamb, pork, venison or poultry. Meatloaf recipes vary according to personal taste. Making meatloaf can be time-consuming, so people often choose to make the meatloaf ahead of time and freeze it. You can freeze a meatloaf cooked or raw depending on your preference.

Things You'll Need

• Disposable loaf pan
• Aluminum foil
• Gallon-size freezer bag
• Permanent marker

Instructions

1. Allow the meatloaf to cool completely if you are freezing it cooked. Cool the meatloaf as quickly as possible. Place the raw meatloaf into a disposable aluminum loaf pan if you are freezing it uncooked.

2. Wrap the meatloaf in aluminum foil so that the meat is not exposed.

3. Place the meatloaf into a gallon-size freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. Write the contents and date on the bag with a permanent marker.

4. Freeze the meatloaf for two to three months.

Tips & Warnings

• You can thaw the frozen meatloaf in the refrigerator or you can bake it frozen. Baking a frozen meatloaf may take up to double the cooking time.

• Always check the internal temperature of the meatloaf with a meat thermometer when you cook it. The internal temperature must reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

References

• Missouri Families: The Food Domain: Food Preservation and Storage
• Purdue University: Freezing Meat and Poultry
• Ellen's Kitchen: Freezer/OAMC Tips and Pointers
• All Recipes: Freezing Foods: A Real Time Saver
• Southern Plate: Meatloaf! Making, Freezing and Small Batch Options