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Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe

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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Combine the meat: Using your hands, gently combine the ground beef with the mixture, being careful not to overmix to avoid a tough texture.
  4. Shape the loaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape about 2 inches high and measuring approximately 4 by 6 inches.
  5. 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.
  6. Make the glaze: While the meatloaf is cooking, mix the remaining tablespoon of ketchup with the yellow mustard in a small bowl.
  7. Apply glaze: After the initial cooking time, remove the meatloaf and gently spread the mustard-ketchup glaze over the top.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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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