Description
This Air Fryer Meatloaf recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful classic comfort food with a quick and easy air frying method. Combining ground beef with aromatic spices, breadcrumbs, and a tangy ketchup glaze, this meatloaf cooks to perfection in under an hour. The air fryer produces a tender inside with a slightly crispy exterior, making it an ideal, fuss-free weeknight dinner that serves four.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound ground beef (80% or 85% lean)
Glaze
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine the egg, panko bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Add the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the seasoned mixture. Using your hands, gently mix everything together until just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking of the meatloaf.
- Shape the meatloaves: Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf approximately 5 inches long, 3 inches wide, and about 1 to 1¼ inches tall. For best results, first form a log shape in your hands, then finish shaping on parchment paper, flattening slightly and pressing the sides to hold the shape firmly.
- Air fry the meatloaves: Place the two meatloaves in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between them for air circulation. Cook at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the glaze: While the meatloaves cook, combine ¼ cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Whisk together until smooth.
- Glaze and finish cooking: After the initial 20 minutes, brush or spoon the glaze evenly over the top of each meatloaf. Continue cooking in the air fryer for an additional 5 to 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest and serve: Once cooked through, remove the meatloaves and let them rest for 10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Do not over-mix the meat mixture to avoid a dense, tough meatloaf.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness and food safety; internal temperature should be 160°F.
- Shaping the loaves on parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes transferring easier.
- The glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish; feel free to adjust the brown sugar and vinegar to taste.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain juices and improve texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 41 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American