While a fan and grill mode can be used for cooking meatloaf, it may not be the most ideal method. The fan and grill mode is designed for quick, high-temperature cooking with direct heat from the grill element. This mode is commonly used for grilling, roasting, or browning food.
Baking a meatloaf like a cake on steam in fan and grill mode may not produce the desired results. Meatloaf is typically cooked at lower temperatures for a longer duration to ensure even cooking and to retain moisture. The steam generated in the oven during this cooking process helps keep the meatloaf moist.
Instead, it is recommended to bake meatloaf in a regular baking mode with both top and bottom heat sources. This allows for gentle and even cooking throughout the meatloaf. If your oven has a convection or fan-assisted mode without the grill element, you can use that mode to promote even baking and browning.
Here's a general method for baking meatloaf:
Preheat your oven to around 350°F (175°C).
Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish or on a baking sheet.
You can line the baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for beef or pork, or 165°F (74°C) for poultry.
If desired, you can glaze the meatloaf with your preferred sauce during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of your meatloaf. It's always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches the safe level for the type of meat you're using.