How to Cook a Frozen Meatloaf

Meatloaf can be just as tasty the second time around.

Save time and money by freezing meatloaf leftovers. You can safely freeze meatloaf for several months, and cook it later as a easy-to-prepare meal for your family. Conveniently bake the leftover meatloaf from frozen without even thawing it first. Be sure not to overheat the meatloaf, or it may dry out. If you want to add moisture to the meat, then during the baking process just top it with a simple glaze, such as ketchup or barbecue sauce.

Things You'll Need

• Shallow baking pan
• Pot holders
• Glaze and pastry brush (optional)
• Instant-read food thermometer

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Place the frozen, foil-wrapped meatloaf in a shallow baking pan.

2. Place the baking pan on the preheated oven's center rack. Bake the meatloaf for one hour.

3. Remove the meatloaf from the oven using pot holders. Unwrap the foil, and brush the top of meatloaf with a glaze if desired.

4. Place the meatloaf back into the oven and bake, uncovered, for another 30 to 40 minutes, or until it reaches the proper temperature. Place an instant-read food thermometer into the center of the meatloaf to check it's temperature, which should register 165 degrees F.

References

• United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service: Freezing and Food Safety
• University of Missouri Extension: Quality for Keeps: Freezing Meat, Poultry, Fish, Eggs and Dairy Products
• Food Network: Old-Fashioned Meat Loaf- A.K.A 'Basic' Meat Loaf