Air Fryer Meatloaf: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Perfectly Cooked Comfort Food

Air Fryer Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. Growing up, meatloaf was a staple in my household, often served with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of green beans. The beauty of Air Fryer Meatloaf lies not only in its rich, savory flavor but also in its convenience; it cooks faster than traditional methods while still delivering that beloved, hearty texture we all crave. People love this dish for its juicy interior and crispy exterior, making it a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family can enjoy. Plus, the air fryer makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to savor every bite without the hassle. Join me as we explore this modern take on a timeless favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. I like to use a combination of meats for added flavor and moisture.
2. Add the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture. The breadcrumbs will help bind everything together while adding a nice texture.
3. Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. These aromatics will infuse the meatloaf with delicious flavor.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Make sure to mix everything thoroughly, but be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
5. Once everything is well combined, I like to taste a small piece of the mixture (raw, of course) to check the seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Shaping the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the meat mixture onto a clean surface or a large piece of parchment paper. Using your hands, shape the mixture into a loaf. Aim for a size that will fit comfortably in your air fryer basket, typically around 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
2. If you prefer, you can also use a loaf pan to shape the meatloaf before transferring it to the air fryer. Just make sure the pan fits in your air fryer.
3. Once shaped, place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket. If you’re using parchment paper, you can line the basket with it for easier cleanup.

Preparing the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and brown sugar (if using). This will create a sweet and tangy glaze that complements the savory meatloaf.
2. Spread the ketchup mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. I like to use the back of a spoon to create a nice even layer.

Cooking the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that the meatloaf cooks evenly.
2. Once preheated, carefully place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s enough space around it for air to circulate.
3. Cook the meatloaf for about 25-30 minutes. I recommend checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
4. If the top of the meatloaf starts to brown too much before it’s fully cooked, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Resting and Serving

1. Once the meatloaf is cooked through, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier meatloaf.
2. After resting, slice the meatloaf into thick pieces. I usually aim for about 1-inch thick slices for a hearty serving.
3. Serve the meatloaf with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully with this dish.

Storage and Reheating

Conclusion:

In summary, this Air Fryer Meatloaf is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of juicy meat, savory spices, and a delightful glaze creates a dish that is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, cooking it in the air fryer means you’ll enjoy a perfectly cooked meatloaf in a fraction of the time it would take in a traditional oven, making it a fantastic option for busy evenings. For serving suggestions, I love pairing this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic meal. You can also slice it up and serve it in a sandwich with your favorite toppings for a delicious lunch the next day. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different ingredients to the meatloaf mixture, such as diced bell peppers, shredded cheese, or even a splash of barbecue sauce for a smoky twist. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Air Fryer Meatloaf a try and experience the joy of a homemade meal that’s both quick and delicious. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you! Your feedback is always appreciated, and I can’t wait to hear about your own variations and serving ideas. Happy cooking! Print

Air Fryer Meatloaf: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Perfectly Cooked Comfort Food
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• Author: Maria
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Print Recipe
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Description
This air fryer meatloaf features a savory blend of ground beef and pork, enhanced with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and aromatic herbs. Topped with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.
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Ingredients
Scale 1x2x3x
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
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Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
2. Add the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture.
3. Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
5. Once everything is well combined, taste a small piece of the mixture to check the seasoning and adjust as needed.
6. Transfer the meat mixture onto a clean surface or a large piece of parchment paper and shape it into a loaf.
7. If preferred, use a loaf pan to shape the meatloaf before transferring it to the air fryer.
8. Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket, lining it with parchment paper if desired.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and brown sugar (if using).
10. Spread the ketchup mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
11. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
12. Carefully place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket.
13. Cook the meatloaf for about 25-30 minutes, checking the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F (70°C).
14. If the top browns too much, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
15. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
16. Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces, about 1-inch thick.
17. Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
• For added flavor, consider mixing in other herbs or spices to the meatloaf mixture.
• Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes