This Air Fryer Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! It’s juicy, packed with flavors, and cooks up fast in the air fryer, making it perfect for busy days.
I love how the air fryer gives it a nice crust while keeping the inside tender. Plus, it’s done way quicker than baking in the oven—goodbye long waits! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean turkey or chicken can work well too.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are great, but you can use panko for a lighter texture. If you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour as a substitute.
Milk: You can use any milk, dairy or non-dairy. Almond milk or oat milk works nicely without affecting the flavor much.
Onion: Use finely chopped yellow or white onion for sweetness. If you’re short on time, onion powder is a quick substitute—about 1 teaspoon should do the trick.
Ketchup: I love the sweetness of ketchup as a topping. For a twist, try barbecue sauce or a homemade sauce with vinegar and spices.
How Can I Make Sure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping your meatloaf moist is all about the right balance of ingredients and cooking techniques. Here are some tips:
- Let the breadcrumbs soak in milk for 5 minutes; this helps add moisture to the meat.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture. Just combine the ingredients until incorporated to keep it tender.
- Shape your meatloaf with a little care. A loaf shape helps it cook evenly and maintain moisture.
- Check the internal temperature—aim for 160°F (71°C). Don’t overcook; it can dry out.
Air Fryer Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Air Fryer Meatloaf takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. A total of about 50 minutes will have you enjoying a delicious, homemade meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let this sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the breadcrumbs to soak up the milk. This step helps keep your meatloaf moist!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, 1/4 cup of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together gently until just combined. Try not to overmix; this helps keep your meatloaf tender!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf that will fit in your air fryer basket, about 7 by 4 inches and roughly 2 inches high. You want it to be uniform for even cooking.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about 3 minutes. This helps cook the meatloaf evenly from the start!
5. Cook the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray. Set the timer for 20 minutes.
6. Add the Topping:
After 20 minutes, carefully pull out the basket and spread a layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf. This gives it that tangy flavor we all love!
7. Finish Cooking:
Return the meatloaf to the air fryer and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is nicely caramelized.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those juicy flavors locked in! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy warm!
Enjoy this juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a deliciously tangy ketchup topping made quickly and easily in your air fryer!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey makes a lighter option but tends to be drier. To keep it moist, consider adding a little extra milk or finely grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the mix.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Absolutely! Adding finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them very small so they cook through properly.
Can I Cook This Meatloaf in the Oven Instead?
Yes! If you prefer the oven method, bake the meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-55 minutes. Make sure to check the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption!
