Air Fryer Meatloaf

A modern twist on a classic dish, Air Fryer Meatloaf is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, perfect for family dinners and special occasions.

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, comfort food, easy recipe, Family Friendly, meatloaf

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 35

Total Time 1 5

Servings 8 servings

Calories 330kcal

Ingredients

For the meatloaf

2/3 cup breadcrumbs (lightly toasted) The foundation of your meatloaf, providing texture.
2/3 cup milk Adds creaminess and helps to keep the meatloaf moist.
1/2 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the onions, enhancing flavor depth.
1 small yellow onion, diced Aromatic and sweet, onions bring richness.
2 pounds ground beef The star of the show; juicy and flavorful.
2 large eggs Acting as a binder, they provide structure.
2 tablespoons ketchup For a hint of sweetness and moisture.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce Adds a depth of umami flavor.
2 teaspoons garlic powder A must-have for a robust flavor profile.
2 teaspoons salt Essential for seasoning the meat.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper For a bit of heat and complexity.
2 teaspoons dried oregano The perfect herb to elevate the dish.
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley For a fresh, vibrant touch.

For the glaze

1/2 cup ketchup A thick, tangy topping for delightful flavor.
3 tablespoons brown sugar Balances the acidity of the ketchup.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Adds brightness and tang.
1 tablespoon mustard For an extra zing in your glaze.

Instructions

Preparation

Hydrate the breadcrumbs by combining them with milk in a bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to soak up the milk fully.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent, which should take about 2 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed onions, ground beef, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

Glazing and Cooking

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and mustard until the mixture is smooth.
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Divide the meat mixture into two equal parts and shape them into loaves.
Place the formed loaves in the preheated air fryer. Cook for 20 minutes, then brush the tops with the glaze and continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes.
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

Serving

Once done, remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

To enhance your Air Fryer Meatloaf further, consider adding diced bell peppers or grated carrots to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a smokier taste, try incorporating smoked paprika. For an even more textured experience, consider using a mix of ground meats, like turkey and beef.