Air Fryer Meatloaf offers a quick and delicious dinner solution, perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe simplifies the classic meatloaf preparation by utilizing the convenience and efficiency of an air fryer, allowing you to enjoy a moist and tender meatloaf in just 35 minutes. The combination of lean ground beef, milk, eggs, and a blend of flavorful seasonings, such as onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and dry ground mustard, creates a savory mixture that forms the foundation of the meatloaf. The addition of torn bread pieces adds both texture and moisture to the dish.
The air frying process begins with shaping the meat mixture into a loaf and placing it in the pre-sprayed air fryer basket. A key tip is to maintain an even thickness to ensure thorough cooking. The cooking process involves two phases: an initial 15-minute period followed by a glazing step and an additional 10 minutes of air frying until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The glaze, a delightful combination of ketchup and BBQ sauce, not only adds a sweet and tangy flavor but also contributes to a beautifully caramelized exterior.
With its minimal preparation time, lack of need for preheating, and the added benefit of a lean meat choice, this Air Fryer Meatloaf recipe proves to be a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional oven-baked versions. The end result is a satisfying main course with a balanced nutritional profile, featuring 393 calories, 33g of protein, and just 9g of fat per serving. Serve it sliced, accompanied by the leftover glaze for a flavorful and family-friendly meal.
Air Fryer Meatloaf
Air Fryer Meatloaf is a tasty dinner that is made even easier using the Air Fryer. Ready in just 35 minutes, this is a tender, moist meatloaf that is perfect for a busy weeknight!
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
▢1 pound lean ground beef
▢¾ cup milk
▢1 large egg
▢3 slices bread, torn up into really small pieces
▢½ Tablespoon onion powder
▢1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
▢½ teaspoon salt
▢½ teaspoon dry ground mustard
▢¼ teaspoon black pepper
▢⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
For the glaze:
▢⅓ cup ketchup
▢⅓ cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
In a large bowl combine all the ingredients for the meatloaf. I just use my clean hands for this. Don’t overwork the meat, just mix until combined.
Spray a 5-7 quart air fryer basket with olive oil nonstick cooking spray. Shape the meat into a loaf shape (at an angle) in the air fryer basket. You don’t want to make the meatloaf too thick or it won’t cook all the way through. Try to make the loaf shape as even as possible from end to end.
Air fry at 350F degrees for 15 minutes.
While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the glaze by mixing together the ketchup and BBQ sauce in a small bowl.
When the meatloaf has cooked for 15 minutes, brush some of the glaze on the loaf. Note: You won’t use all of the glaze. Save the leftovers for serving.
Air fry at 350F degrees for another 10 minutes. Meatloaf is done when an internal temperature reaches 160F degrees.
Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 5 minutes. Then slice and serve with leftover glaze.
Notes
Please refer to my FAQ’s and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
The only way to know when meat is truly cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Because some air fryers cook differently, it is best to always check the temperature to know when it is fully cooked (don’t just go by time). It should read 160F degree when ready.
You do not need to preheat the air fryer.
I prefer olive oil nonstick spray because it won’t gunk up the air fryer basket over time.
This meat held together really well. I was able to scoop it out with a large spatula and it held together well.
A lean meat is important here to reduce the amount of grease. I used 93% but I think you could even get away with 85%.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Air Fryer Meatloaf
Nutrition
Calories: 393kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 115mg | Sodium: 1174mg | Potassium: 684mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 265IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 115mg | Iron: 5mg