Introduction

This air fryer meatloaf is a quick and easy twist on a classic comfort food. It comes out juicy and flavorful with a tangy ketchup and mustard glaze. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner without heating up the oven.

Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 Tbsp. ketchup, divided
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
½ tsp. garlic powder
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten
½ small onion, finely chopped
¼ cup dry breadcrumbs
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 Tbsp. yellow mustard

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the lightly beaten egg.
Step 2: Add the finely chopped onion and breadcrumbs to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Gently fold in the ground beef using your hands, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 4: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf about 2 inches high and 4 by 6 inches in size.
Step 5: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F and place the meatloaf inside. Cook for 15 minutes at 370°F.
Step 6: While the meatloaf cooks, combine the remaining tablespoon of ketchup with the yellow mustard in a small bowl.
Step 7: Remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and spread the ketchup-mustard glaze evenly over the top.
Step 8: Return the meatloaf to the air fryer and continue cooking at 370°F until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F, about 8 to 10 more minutes.
Step 9: Once cooked through, remove the air fryer basket and let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 10: Transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice into ¾ to 1-inch thick pieces. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, add a splash of milk or a tablespoon of grated Parmesan to the mix.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Try adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for added veggies and flavor.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free meatloaf.
If you don’t have an instant-read thermometer, ensure the meatloaf juices run clear and the center is no longer pink.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or air fryer until heated through. You can also freeze the cooked meatloaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other ground meats instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or a beef-pork blend can be used. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the fat content and size of the loaf.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the meatloaf in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 45 to 55 minutes, following the same preparation and glazing steps.

Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 90 reviews

This Air Fryer Meatloaf recipe offers a quick and delicious way to prepare a classic comfort food with minimal fuss. Using the air fryer ensures a moist, flavorful meatloaf with a slightly crisp exterior, cooked evenly in under 30 minutes. The recipe incorporates a balanced blend of seasonings and a tangy ketchup and mustard glaze that adds an extra layer of flavor to every bite.

Author: Daniel
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Mixture

1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten
½ small onion, finely chopped
¼ cup dry breadcrumbs
1 lb. lean ground beef

Glaze

1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Instructions

Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed.
Add onion and breadcrumbs: Mix in the finely chopped onion followed by the dry breadcrumbs. Once these are evenly distributed, add the ground beef to the bowl.
Combine the meat: Using your hands, gently combine the ground beef with the mixture, being careful not to overmix to avoid a tough texture.
Shape the loaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape about 2 inches high and measuring approximately 4 by 6 inches.
Preheat air fryer and cook: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F. Place the meatloaf into the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes at 370°F.
Make the glaze: While the meatloaf is cooking, mix the remaining tablespoon of ketchup with the yellow mustard in a small bowl.
Apply glaze: After the initial cooking time, remove the meatloaf and gently spread the mustard-ketchup glaze over the top.
Finish cooking: Return the glazed meatloaf to the air fryer and cook at 370°F for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F.
Rest the meatloaf: Remove the air fryer basket from the unit and allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes in the basket. This helps juices redistribute, ensuring moistness.
Slice and serve: Transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice into pieces about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
Allowing the meatloaf to rest after cooking enhances its juiciness and flavor.
You can customize the seasoning based on preference, such as adding chopped herbs or spices.
Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and avoid excessive grease.
If desired, you can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked safely to 160°F.

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