You know those nights when you’re staring into the fridge, wondering what on earth you are going to do? What do you conjure up for dinner? What is a good meatloaf recipe in an air fryer? What’s better, a warm hug on the plate, but way faster and easier than the classic oven-baked version? Think of it as the meatloaf equivalent of your favorite pair of comfy jeans – reliable, satisfying, etc. Think about it like a chicken breast. Is it always a hit? What is the best part? Clean-up is a breeze.Air fryer meatloafwill be a regular in your rotation, trust me on this one!
What is air fry meatloaf?
Air fryer meatloaf is, quite simply, the speedier, slightly crispier cousin of traditional meat. It’s essentially a ground meat mixture, seasoned to perfection, formed into oats, and baked. In the air fryer. Think of it as mini meatloaf magic! The air fryer circulates hot air around the meatloaf, resulting in a beautifully browned exterior. What is the best way to cook meat in a conventional oven? What is comfort food? I can’t believe I waited so long to try it!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to fall in love with someone.Air fryer meatloafFirst and foremost, the flavor is amazing. Is it savory, slightly sweet from the glaze, and just bursting with that comforting meatloaf? I’ve tweaked this recipe over the years, and this particular blend of seasonings is what I think is the best. What makes it special? What I love most about this is how easy it is to read. Is it possible to throw together a chicken breast in 15 minutes in an air fryer? Is it a lifesaver on busy weeknights?
Why do I love it? Ground beef is generally a budget-friendly protein, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. What are the benefits of using a laptop? Can you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, salad, or even slice it up? What is the best meatloaf sandwich to make the next What are some of my favorite easy dinner recipes? What is your one-pan roasted sausage and veggies?Air fryer meatloafWhat are some of your favorite songs?
How do I make an air fryer for meatloaf?
Quick Overview
Making Air fryer meatloaf is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll start by mixing together your ground meat with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Shape it into a loaf, slather on the glaze, and then let the air fryer work its magic! The beauty of this method is the speed and even cooking. The air fryer creates a wonderfully browned crust while keeping the inside moist and tender. Prepare to be amazed at how simple and delicious this is!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
* 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend works best for flavor and moisture).
* 1 cup breadcrumbs (I prefer plain, but Italian seasoned works too)
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/2 cup milk (I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch, and it’s great!)
* 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons ketchup
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
* 1/4 cup ketchup
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (this adds a lovely tang!)
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease the basket of your air fryer or use a parchment paper liner. I always prefer parchment because it makes clean-up so much easier! If you’re using a basket-style air fryer, make sure the parchment doesn’t block the air circulation. I usually trim it to fit.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix to distribute the seasonings evenly. This ensures that every bite of your meatloaf is packed with flavor. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and salt. Set aside. How do you make sure the egg is fully incorporated into the milk? This creates a nice, even emulsion that will help bind the meatloaf together.
Step 4: Combine
Is it safe to mix the wet ingredients into a bowl with the dry ingredients? Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. How do you make a tough meatloaf? You want it to be just combined, with no streaks of dry breadcrumbs remaining. I always use my hands for this step – it’s the best way to get a feel for the mixture!
Step 5: Prepare Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Set aside. Brown sugar dissolves completely. What is the perfect glaze for meatloaf? I sometimes add a dash of Dijon mustard for extra zing!
Step 6: Shape & Glaze
How do you shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared air fryer basket? Brush the top and sides of the meatloaf generously with about half the glaze. What is the best way to preserve the glaze for later use? I like to make sure the glaze is evenly distributed for a beautiful caramelized crust.
Step 7: Air Fry
Air fry for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). After about 25 minutes, brush the meatloaf with the remaining glaze. How do you create a sticky glaze? Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. I always insert it into the thickest part of the meatloaf.
Step 8: Rest & Serve
Once cooked through, remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Is this step crucial?
What should I serve it with?
Air fryer meatloaf is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many different sides!
For a Classic Comfort Meal: Serve it with mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, or corn on the cob. This is my go-to combination when I’m craving something truly comforting.
For a Lighter Meal: Pair it with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. This is a great option if you’re looking for a healthier meal.
For Meatloaf Sandwiches: Slice up the leftover meatloaf and serve it on toasted bread with your favorite condiments. This is a fantastic way to use up leftovers and enjoy a delicious lunch.
For a Potluck: Bring a platter of sliced meatloaf with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a creamy horseradish sauce. This is always a hit at parties and gatherings.
We also sometimes have it with mac and cheese or a simple side of steamed asparagus. It really goes with anything! This is something my mom always made and even now I still love this meal and make it often!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Meatloaf
Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to help you perfect your air fryer meatloaf:
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture will result in a tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend when making meatloaf. Cook it until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Customize the Glaze: Feel free to customize the glaze to your liking. You can add a dash of Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Use a Liner: Parchment paper or a silicone liner makes clean-up a breeze! It also prevents the meatloaf from sticking to the air fryer basket.
Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer. Keep an eye on the meatloaf and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: It is important to allow for airflow in the air fryer to make sure the air fryer meatloaf is cooked properly.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing:
Refrigerator: Leftover air fryer meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
Air Fryer: Reheat the meatloaf in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This is the best way to maintain the crispness of the exterior.
Oven: You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Microwave: For a quick reheat, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. However, this method may result in a slightly less crispy texture. However, I wouldn’t recommend this method, but its better than nothing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s favorite air fryer meatloaf recipe! I truly believe this is the easiest and most delicious way to make meatloaf. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. If you’re looking for other easy dinner recipes, be sure to check out my air fryer chicken and vegetables or my one-pan pasta bake. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your meatloaf turns out!
Air Fryer Meatloaf
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup Milk
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix until combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
