This Air Fryer Meatloaf is a juicy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any dinner. It cooks quickly and gets a lovely crispy edge, all while staying tender inside!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix the ingredients, shape it into a loaf, and let the air fryer work its magic. It’s a fun way to enjoy a classic meal! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner meat, ground turkey or chicken work well too, but you might want to add a bit more moisture like additional milk or broth.
Breadcrumbs: If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be great substitutes. Just remember to adjust the quantity; they can absorb moisture differently than breadcrumbs.
Milk: Regular milk is great, but feel free to use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk. It will still keep the breadcrumbs moist without changing much in taste.
Onion and Garlic: I love adding freshly chopped onion and minced garlic for flavor, but if you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can also work in a pinch.
Ketchup: You can use BBQ sauce or even homemade tomato sauce if you want a different twist. It’s all about personal preference!
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf Is Juicy and Tender?
Mixing the ingredients just right is key to a juicy meatloaf. Here’s how to do it:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk first to give them enough moisture. This helps keep the meatloaf tender.
- Combine the ingredients gently. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, so mix just until incorporated.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 160°F (71°C) for safety, but don’t overcook!
Letting the meatloaf rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute. It makes slicing easier and keeps it moist.
How to Make Air Fryer Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook in the air fryer. That means you can have a delicious meatloaf ready in less than an hour—perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk in a large mixing bowl for about 5 minutes. This helps them get nice and moist.
2. Mix in the Rest of the Ingredients:
Once the breadcrumbs are soaked, add the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the bowl. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spoon. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep the meatloaf tender!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf that can fit inside your air fryer basket—around 8 inches long and 4 inches wide works well.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes so it’s nice and hot when you put the meatloaf in.
5. Cook the Meatloaf:
Place the shaped meatloaf in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for 20 minutes. Make sure it’s not crowded, so it cooks evenly.
6. Add the Ketchup Topping:
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the basket. Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the top of your meatloaf—this gives it a yummy glaze!
7. Finish Cooking:
Put the basket back in and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C). This means it’s safely cooked through.
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the meatloaf out of the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, making it easier to slice.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your meatloaf with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve it up with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or a simple salad. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Meatloaf!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. If using leaner meats, consider adding a bit more moisture, like extra milk or broth, to keep it juicy.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Without Breadcrumbs?
Yes! If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, try using crushed crackers, oats, or even quinoa as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the quantity, as they may absorb moisture differently.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer until warmed through.
What Sides Pair Well with Air Fryer Meatloaf?
Air Fryer Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a side salad, or even mac and cheese for a hearty meal. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
