Air Fryer Meatloaf

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef provides a good balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken; just be aware that they may yield a drier meatloaf. I prefer beef for its rich taste.

Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs work great, but you can substitute with crushed crackers, panko, or even rolled oats for a different texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a perfect swap if you’re avoiding gluten.

Milk: Milk adds moisture, but if you’re dairy-free, almond or oat milk can be used instead with similar results.

Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped onion and minced garlic elevate the flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can replace them, though I love the fresh taste that real onions give.

Ketchup: Use traditional ketchup for sweetness and moisture. For a twist, barbecue sauce or homemade tomato sauce can be used as alternatives. I often add a little extra on top for a sweet glaze.

How Do I Shape the Perfect Meatloaf?

Shaping the meatloaf is key to how it cooks. To get a good shape, follow these tips:

• Once your mixture is combined, wet your hands to prevent sticking while shaping.
• Form the meat into an 8-inch loaf, making sure it’s uniform in width for even cooking.
• The top should be slightly rounded, which helps with crust formation during cooking.

Using parchment paper in the air fryer basket can help with easy removal and clean-up. Just let it hang over a bit so you have handles!

Air Fryer Meatloaf

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus additional for topping)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take around 35-40 minutes in total. About 5 minutes to preheat the air fryer and prep the ingredients, then around 30 minutes cooking time. Plus, you’ll want to let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. It’s a quick and easy dinner solution!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:

First things first! Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This helps ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly.

2. Prepare the Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak together for a couple of minutes while you gather the other ingredients. This will help keep the meatloaf moist!

3. Combine the Ingredients:

Now, add the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, 1/4 cup of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly with your hands or a spatula. Be careful not to overmix it, as you want a tender meatloaf.

4. Shape the Meatloaf:

Form the mixture into a loaf shape, about 8 inches long, making sure it fits in your air fryer basket or dish. If you’re using parchment paper, place it inside the basket to make removal easier.

5. Cooking Time:

Place the meatloaf into the air fryer basket and cook it at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. This ensures it gets a nice crust on the outside while staying juicy inside.

6. Glazing the Meatloaf:

After 25 minutes, carefully remove the basket. Spread a generous layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a tasty glaze and extra flavor!

7. Final Cooking:

Return the meatloaf to the air fryer and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes. You want to reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and see the ketchup topping caramelize a bit.

8. Rest and Serve:

Once done, carefully take the meatloaf out of the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it extra juicy.

9. Slice and Garnish:

Finally, slice the meatloaf, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm with your favorite sides—maybe some mashed potatoes or steamed veggies!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Air Fryer Meatloaf! It’s sure to become a family favorite.

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so you might want to add a bit more milk or even some grated zucchini to keep it moist.

How Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?

To make a gluten-free meatloaf, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use rolled oats. Both options work well and will still keep the loaf together!

Can I Freeze Leftover Meatloaf?

Yes, you can! Allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for about 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then warm it in the air fryer or oven.

What Sides Pair Well with Air Fryer Meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs nicely with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad. For a comforting meal, you could serve it alongside macaroni and cheese as well!