Why does the meatloaf you make fall apart?

1. Lack of Binding Ingredients: Meatloaf binders like eggs, bread crumbs, and/or oats help to hold the meat mixture together. Ensure you have enough of these ingredients in the recipe.

2. Too Much Liquid: When adding wet ingredients like onions, peppers, or sauces to the meat mixture, they add moisture and can make the meatloaf too loose. Drain excess liquid before incorporating them into the mixture, or reduce their quantity.

3. Meat Not Mixed Well: Ensure you thoroughly mix the meat mixture so all ingredients are evenly distributed. Poor mixing can lead to uneven binding and potential crumbling during cooking.

4. Overworking the Mixture: Overworking the meat mixture, especially with ground meat, can develop the gluten in the meat and make it tough. Handle the mixture gently when combining ingredients.

5. Insufficient Cooking Time: Undercooked meatloaf will not hold its shape and is more likely to fall apart. Make sure to cook the meatloaf according to the recipe's recommended time or until it reaches the proper internal temperature.

6. Sudden Temperature Change: Avoid extreme temperature changes, like taking the meatloaf from a hot oven and immediately cutting it. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

7. Type of Meat: Different types of ground meats have varying fat contents. Leaner meats may require additional binders or moisture to prevent dryness and potential crumbling.

8. Baking Sheet vs. Loaf Pan: If using a baking sheet instead of a loaf pan, the meatloaf may not hold its shape as well. A loaf pan provides support during cooking and helps maintain its structure.

9. Overfilling the Pan: If the meatloaf mixture is packed too tightly or overfills the pan, it may cause it to bulge and crack as it cooks. Ensure the mixture fits comfortably in the chosen pan.

By addressing these potential issues, you can improve the integrity of your meatloaf and prevent it from falling apart. Remember to follow the recipe's instructions carefully and make any adjustments based on your chosen ingredients and cooking method.