Hey guys! Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further! This air fryer meatloaf recipe is a total game-changer. We're talking about juicy, flavorful meatloaf cooked to perfection in your air fryer in a fraction of the time compared to the oven. Trust me; this will become a new family favorite.

Why Air Fryer Meatloaf?

So, why should you make meatloaf in the air fryer? Let me break it down for you:

• Speed: The air fryer cooks meatloaf much faster than a traditional oven. You can have dinner on the table in under an hour!
• Even Cooking: The circulating hot air ensures even cooking, so you don't have to worry about a dry exterior or an undercooked center.
• Crispy Crust: The air fryer creates a beautiful, slightly crispy crust on the outside of the meatloaf, adding a delightful texture.
• Easy Cleanup: Fewer dishes are always a win! The air fryer basket is easy to clean, especially if you use a liner.
• Perfect for Small Portions: If you're cooking for one or two, the air fryer is ideal for making a smaller meatloaf without heating your entire oven.

Ingredients You'll Need

Okay, let's gather our ingredients. This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

• Ground Beef: The foundation of our meatloaf. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture. You can also use a combination of ground beef and ground pork or turkey.
• Bread Crumbs: Help bind the meatloaf together and add texture. I prefer using plain bread crumbs, but Italian-seasoned bread crumbs will also work.
• Egg: Acts as a binder and helps to keep the meatloaf moist.
• Onion: Adds flavor and moisture. I like to use yellow onion, but white onion will also work.
• Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic! Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Ketchup: Adds sweetness and tanginess to the meatloaf. It's also the base for our delicious glaze.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
• Milk: Helps to moisten the bread crumbs and keep the meatloaf tender.
• Spices: A simple blend of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning enhances the flavor of the meatloaf.

Here's the full list:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup ketchup, divided
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make the best air fryer meatloaf ever:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion, garlic, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
2. Shape the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf mixture on a sheet of parchment paper. Shape it into a loaf about 7x4 inches in size. Make sure it fits in your air fryer basket with enough room for air to circulate around it. Or you can use a loaf pan that fits inside your air fryer.
3. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup ketchup with a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
4. Air Fry the Meatloaf: Carefully place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket, seam side down. Brush the top of the meatloaf with half of the ketchup glaze. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
5. Add the Remaining Glaze: After 20 minutes, remove the air fryer basket and brush the remaining ketchup glaze over the meatloaf. Return the meatloaf to the air fryer and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest and Serve: Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Meatloaf

Here are some tips to help you achieve meatloaf perfection:

• Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure that your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meatloaf and cook until it reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Let it Rest: Letting the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
• Line Your Air Fryer Basket: To prevent the meatloaf from sticking to the air fryer basket, line it with parchment paper or use an air fryer liner.
• Get Creative with the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different glazes. You can add brown sugar, honey, or mustard to the ketchup glaze for a unique flavor.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to mix things up? Here are some variations and add-ins to try:

• Cheese: Add shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or Parmesan cheese to the meatloaf mixture for a cheesy twist.
• Vegetables: Mix in chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients.
• Bacon: Wrap the meatloaf in bacon before air frying for a crispy, smoky flavor.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a little heat.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer meatloaf is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing! Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the savory meatloaf.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious side dish.
• Green Beans: Simple and satisfying, green beans are a great way to add some green to your plate.
• Mac and Cheese: A comforting and kid-friendly side dish that everyone will love.
• Salad: A fresh salad is a light and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meatloaf.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Make-Ahead:

You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, simply shape the meatloaf and air fry as directed.

Storage:

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the air fryer, oven, or microwave.

Freezing:

You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the air fryer, oven, or microwave.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the meatloaf mixture: This can result in a tough meatloaf.
• Not using enough binder: Bread crumbs and eggs help bind the meatloaf together and keep it moist. Make sure to use the correct amount.
• Not cooking the meatloaf to the correct temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meatloaf is cooked to 160°F (71°C).
• Not letting the meatloaf rest: Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender meatloaf.
• Overcrowding the air fryer basket: Make sure to leave enough space around the meatloaf for air to circulate properly. If necessary, cook the meatloaf in batches.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork instead of ground beef. You can also use a combination of different types of ground meat.

Can I make this recipe without bread crumbs?

Yes, you can use crushed crackers or rolled oats instead of bread crumbs.

Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Yes, you can add chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the meatloaf mixture.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or use an air fryer liner.

How long does it take to cook meatloaf in the air fryer?

It takes about 30-35 minutes to cook meatloaf in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C).

Conclusion

There you have it, folks! A quick, easy, and delicious air fryer meatloaf recipe that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. With its crispy crust, juicy interior, and flavorful glaze, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. So, fire up your air fryer and give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed! Enjoy!