Air Fryer Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of traditional meatloaf with the convenience of modern cooking. Growing up, meatloaf was a staple in my household, often served with mashed potatoes and a side of green beans. Its a dish that evokes nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of family gatherings and hearty meals. With the advent of the air fryer, this beloved recipe has been transformed into a quicker, healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture.
People love Air Fryer Meatloaf for its juicy interior and perfectly crisp exterior, all achieved in a fraction of the time it takes to bake in a conventional oven. The air fryer circulates hot air, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor while keeping the meatloaf moist. Plus, its incredibly convenientperfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as we explore this easy and delicious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!
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 milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture
- 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.
- Add the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture. The breadcrumbs will help bind everything together, while the cheese adds a delicious savory note.
- Pour in the milk, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients will keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
- Crack the egg into the bowl. This acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatloaf together.
- Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. These aromatics will infuse the meatloaf with great flavor.
- Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Shaping the Meatloaf
- Once the mixture is well combined, transfer it to a clean surface or a large piece of parchment paper. I like to use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Make sure its even in thickness for consistent cooking.
- Place the shaped meatloaf onto a piece of parchment paper that fits into your air fryer basket. This will help with easy removal later.
Prepping the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is essential for even cooking.
- While the air fryer is preheating, brush the top of the meatloaf with a thin layer of ketchup. This adds a nice glaze and extra flavor.
Cooking the Meatloaf
- Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the parchment paper with the meatloaf into the basket. Make sure theres enough space around the meatloaf for air to circulate.
- Cook the meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your meatloaf and the specific model of your air fryer.
- After 25 minutes, check the internal temperature of the meatloaf using a meat thermometer. It should read at least 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
- If the meatloaf hasnt reached the desired temperature, continue cooking in 5-minute increments until it does.
Resting and Serving
- Once the meatloaf is cooked through, carefully remove it from the air fryer using the parchment paper. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier meatloaf.
- After resting, slice the meatloaf into thick pieces. I usually aim for about 1-inch thick slices for a hearty serving.
- Serve the meatloaf warm, drizzled with any remaining ketchup or your favorite sauce. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Storing Leftovers
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- 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)
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
- Add the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture.
- Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Stir in the chopped parsley, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Once everything is well combined, taste a small piece of the mixture to check the seasoning and adjust as needed.
- Transfer the meat mixture onto a clean surface or a large piece of parchment paper and shape it into a loaf.
- If preferred, use a loaf pan to shape the meatloaf before transferring it to the air fryer.
- Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket, lining it with parchment paper if desired.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and brown sugar (if using).
- Spread the ketchup mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket.
- Cook the meatloaf for about 25-30 minutes, checking the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F (70°C).
- If the top browns too much, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces, about 1-inch thick.
- Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- 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
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this Air Fryer Meatloaf is truly a 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 youll 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 a side of 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 youre 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 thats both quick and delicious. Dont forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, Im sure youll love it just as much as I do. Happy cooking! Print
Air Fryer Meatloaf: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Perfectly Cooked Comfort Food
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, its a quick and satisfying meal thats perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
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