Introduction

This air fryer meatloaf recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a perfect crust and juicy interior. Using an air fryer cuts down cooking time while keeping the flavors rich and savory. It’s a convenient meal ideal for busy weeknights.

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 beaten egg until well combined.
Step 2: Add the finely chopped onion and breadcrumbs to the bowl and mix again. Then gently fold in the ground beef, being careful not to overmix to avoid a tough meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf approximately 2 inches high and 4 by 6 inches in size.
Step 4: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C) and place the loaf inside the air fryer basket.
Step 5: Cook the meatloaf for 15 minutes at 370°F.
Step 6: While the meatloaf cooks, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of ketchup with the yellow mustard in a small bowl.
Step 7: After the first cooking period, remove the meatloaf and spread the mustard-ketchup mixture evenly over the top.
Step 8: Return the meatloaf to the air fryer and continue cooking at 370°F until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), about 8 to 10 more minutes.
Step 9: Once cooked, remove the air fryer basket and allow the meatloaf to rest in the basket for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 10: Transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice into ¾ to 1-inch slices before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, add a splash of milk to the meat mixture before shaping the loaf.
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Try adding finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots to the mixture for added texture and nutrition.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free meal.
Resting the meatloaf before slicing helps keep the juices locked in.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until heated through. You can also freeze cooked slices for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meat instead of fresh for this recipe?

It is best to use fresh ground beef for this recipe to ensure even cooking and proper texture. If using frozen meat, thaw it completely before mixing and cooking.

What if my air fryer is smaller and cannot fit a 4×6 inch loaf?

You can make smaller individual mini meatloaves or adjust the shape to fit your air fryer basket. Just reduce the cooking time slightly and use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe

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4.6 from 83 reviews

This Air Fryer Meatloaf recipe offers a quick and convenient way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthier twist. Using an air fryer, the meatloaf cooks evenly and stays moist without the need for excessive oil or long oven times. This method results in a flavorful and tender meatloaf topped with a tangy mustard and ketchup glaze.

Author: Ella
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

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

Glaze

1 Tbsp. yellow mustard

Instructions

Prepare the seasoning mix: In a large bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix well to create a flavorful base.
Add onion and breadcrumbs: Stir in the finely chopped onion and dry breadcrumbs until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Incorporate the ground beef: Add the lean ground beef to the bowl. Use your hands gently to combine the meat with the seasoning mixture, being careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
Shape the meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf approximately 2 inches high and 4 by 6 inches in size. This ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
Cook the meatloaf: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F. Place the meatloaf inside and cook for 15 minutes. This initial cooking sets the shape and begins the cooking process.
Make the glaze: While the meatloaf is cooking, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon of ketchup with the yellow mustard in a small bowl to prepare the topping.
Apply the glaze: Remove the partially cooked meatloaf from the air fryer and spread the mustard-ketchup glaze evenly over the top.
Finish cooking: Return the glazed meatloaf to the air fryer and continue to cook at 370°F until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reaches 160°F, approximately 8-10 more minutes.
Rest the meatloaf: Once fully cooked, take the basket out and let the meatloaf rest in the air fryer basket for 5-10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute for a moist result.
Slice and serve: Transfer the meatloaf onto a cutting board and slice into 3/4 to 1 inch thick pieces. Serve while warm for best flavor.

Notes

Using lean ground beef helps reduce fat content but avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
Resting the meatloaf after cooking allows the juices to settle, ensuring a moist texture.
Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free alternatives if needed.
The internal temperature should reach 160°F to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked and safe to eat.
If you don’t have an air fryer, this recipe can be adapted for oven baking at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes.

Keywords: Air fryer meatloaf, quick meatloaf recipe, healthy meatloaf, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, air fryer recipes