Air Fryer Meatloaf
Introduction
Air Fryer Meatloaf is a game-changing twist on the classic comfort food: it’s faster, healthier, and delivers a perfectly golden crust without sacrificing juiciness. Thanks to the high-powered circulating heat of an air fryer, you get a hearty, flavorful dinner in less time, with minimal cleanup.
Impress your family with a weeknight staple that’s both deeply savory and incredibly simple to make, all while freeing up your oven for side dishes or dessert.
Flavor-Packed Air Fryer Meatloaf
This meatloaf stands out for its moist interior and irresistible crispy edges. The air fryer’s concentrated heat allows the beef and aromatics to meld together while the slightly caramelized outer layer creates a satisfying texture. Customizable with your favorite mix-ins and toppings, this air fryer meatloaf is a reliable crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
The Key to Juicy, Flavorful Meatloaf
The secret here lies in fresh aromatics and perfectly blended ingredients. For an effortless chop of onions, peppers, or even garlic, use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to get even pieces that cook through and infuse each bite with flavor.
Traditional breadcrumbs and egg lock in the juices, while ketchup and Worcestershire boost umami. Feel free to swap in ground turkey for a lighter twist, or add diced veggies for extra nutrition and taste.
Effortless Cooking in the Air Fryer
Prepping meatloaf in an air fryer is remarkably straightforward. Using the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey ensures even cooking and enough volume for a family-sized loaf. To prevent sticking and for easier cleanup, line your air fryer basket with a cut sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll.
The air fryer circulates hot air around the entire loaf, developing a lovely caramelized glaze—perfect for that classic meatloaf presentation.
Perfect Doneness: Moist, Never Dry
The difference between a dry meatloaf and the perfect slice is monitoring temperature. For guaranteed results, use the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking. Shape your loaf for even thickness and check for an internal temperature of 160°F before removing from the air fryer to rest.
Serving Suggestions
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for neat portions. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, crisp green beans, or a bright garden salad. Leftovers make incredible sandwiches—simply store slices in airtight Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for easy lunches all week long.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe yields about 6 hearty servings. Each portion has approximately 290–320 calories, depending on the meat and extras you use. Enjoy a wholesome meal packed with protein and classic flavor, made lighter thanks to air frying.
Air Fryer Meatloaf (Recap)
Air fryer meatloaf offers everything you love about the original: a savory, juicy center and irresistible caramelized edges, all ready in less than an hour. It’s a quick, satisfying, and modern take on a classic—sure to find a regular spot on your dinner table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. For easy cleanup, line the basket with a piece of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll or use air fryer-safe parchment liner.
- In a large bowl, add ground beef, onion, bell pepper, garlic, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, milk, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for quick, even prep of your veggies.
- Mix until just combined (do not overmix), then shape into a loaf approximately 7” x 4” x 2” thick—ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Place the loaf into the air fryer basket. Spread a little extra ketchup over the top for a classic glaze.
- Air fry for 25 minutes. Check the loaf with the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking; if not yet 160°F in the center, cook an additional 5-10 minutes as needed.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest in the basket for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers to keep them fresh.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
