Meatloaf is a classic comfort food, and making it in the air fryer is a game-changer. With the air fryer, you can achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy meatloaf with a crispy exterior in just a fraction of the time it takes in the oven. Plus, the air fryer allows the meatloaf to cook evenly while reducing the fat content, as some of the excess grease drips away during cooking. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Air Fryer Meatloaf recipe is easy, delicious, and a real crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or use a leaner blend like ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular, gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness in the glaze)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor in the glaze)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until just combined (be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatloaf dense).
- Form the Meatloaf:
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape, approximately the size of your air fryer basket (you may need to adjust based on the size of your air fryer). The loaf should be tall enough to cook evenly but not too thick to ensure the heat circulates properly.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using). This will be your glaze to brush on top of the meatloaf.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Air Fry the Meatloaf:
- Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket, making sure it’s not touching the sides for optimal air circulation. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of your meatloaf. At the 15-minute mark, check the meatloaf and brush the top with a layer of the ketchup glaze.
- Finish Cooking and Add Glaze:
- After 25-30 minutes, check the internal temperature of the meatloaf with a meat thermometer. It should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for turkey. If it hasn’t reached the desired temperature, continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, checking periodically.
- Once the meatloaf is done, brush another layer of glaze on top and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to let it set and caramelize.
- Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and ensures the slices hold their shape.
- Slice and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
Tips:
- Meat Choices: Feel free to use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this meatloaf. You can also use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a richer flavor.
- Customization: Add extra flavor to the meatloaf by mixing in chopped bell peppers, shredded cheese, or even some hot sauce for a bit of heat. You can also swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats if you prefer.
- Glaze Variations: If you prefer a more savory glaze, use BBQ sauce or a balsamic glaze instead of the traditional ketchup-based one. You can also add a little sriracha or hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Cooking in Batches: If you’re cooking for a large group, you can easily double the recipe and cook the meatloaf in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer basket.
Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: ~20g
- Fat: ~15g
- Carbs: ~8g
- Fiber: ~1g
- WW Points: 6 points (depending on meat type and glaze used)
Why Air Fryer Meatloaf?
Cooking meatloaf in the air fryer not only reduces the cooking time but also makes it easier to achieve a crispy, caramelized exterior with a juicy, tender interior. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly without drying out, and the glaze forms a delicious sticky topping without needing to broil or bake it for an extended time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, Air Fryer Meatloaf is a simple, flavorful dish that everyone will love!
