Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite air fryer meatloaf recipe! It’s incredibly simple, quick, and oh-so-delicious. Seriously, the air fryer is a game changer for this classic dish! I love how it cooks the meatloaf evenly while locking in all those juicy flavors. Plus, it’s ready in just 35 minutes, which means you can enjoy a hearty meal without the wait. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this meatloaf is bound to become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients for Airfryer Meatloaf Recipe
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this air fryer meatloaf shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (I prefer lean for a healthier option!)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use plain or Italian, your choice!)
- 1/4 cup milk (just regular milk works great)
- 1/4 cup ketchup (you can add more on top if you like it tangy)
- 1 egg (this helps bind everything together)
- 1 onion, chopped (the finer the chop, the better the flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh garlic if you’re feeling fancy!)
- 1 teaspoon salt (don’t skip this, it brings everything to life)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for that deep, savory flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for a fresh touch)
Optional Ingredients
- Additional seasonings like Italian herbs, paprika, or cayenne for a kick!
- Cheese (think shredded cheddar or mozzarella mixed in for extra indulgence)
- Chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added veggies and flavor
- Glazed topping: a mix of ketchup and brown sugar spread on top before cooking
- Cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor—because bacon makes everything better!
How to Prepare the Airfryer Meatloaf Recipe
Now let’s get down to business and whip up this scrumptious air fryer meatloaf! I promise, it’s as easy as pie. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden crust!
- While it’s preheating, grab a large mixing bowl and combine all your ingredients. Seriously, just toss them in there—ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley. It’s like a flavorful party in a bowl!
- Now, mix everything together until well combined. You can use your hands (which I love for that hands-on experience) or a spoon, but make sure it’s all evenly mixed. Nobody wants a bite of just breadcrumbs, right?
- Shape the mixture into a loaf. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but aim for a nice, even shape so it cooks properly. I usually make mine about 2-3 inches tall.
- Carefully place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket. If you’re worried about sticking, you can line the basket with parchment paper, but I find it usually comes out just fine without it.
- Cook the meatloaf for about 25 minutes. You’ll want to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for safety. It’s always a good idea to have a meat thermometer handy!
- Once it’s done, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This step is important because it allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed in this air fryer meatloaf! Now, keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re indulging in. Each slice of this delightful meatloaf contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 20g
This meatloaf is not only hearty and delicious but also packs a punch in the protein department, making it a satisfying option for dinner. Plus, with the right choices in ingredients, you can tweak these numbers to suit your dietary needs. Enjoy guilt-free!
Tips for Success
Before you dive into making this air fryer meatloaf, let me share some of my best tips to help you achieve that perfect, juicy loaf every time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference.
- Don’t overmix! Mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf, and we definitely want it to be tender and juicy!
- Check your ground beef. Using lean ground beef is great for health, but if it’s too lean, it may dry out. A little fat helps keep things moist—look for an 80/20 blend if you can!
- Use a meat thermometer. This is a game changer! The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for perfectly cooked meatloaf. It takes the guesswork out of doneness!
- Let it rest! Seriously, don’t skip the resting time after cooking. It helps the juices settle and makes slicing easier. Plus, who wants a meatloaf that falls apart?
- Experiment with flavors. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs and spices! A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or some smoked paprika can elevate the flavor to a whole new level.
- Watch the cook time. Air fryers can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your meatloaf as it cooks. If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it with a bit of foil to avoid burning.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious air fryer meatloaf that’s sure to impress family and friends. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this scrumptious air fryer meatloaf ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve it with for a complete meal! I love pairing it with some classic sides that complement its hearty flavors perfectly. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a must! They soak up all those delicious juices from the meatloaf.
- Steamed vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like green beans or broccoli add a fresh crunch and balance out the richness of the meatloaf.
- Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette helps lighten the meal and adds some brightness.
- Roasted carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots bring a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory meatloaf.
- Macaroni and cheese: If you’re feeling indulgent, creamy mac and cheese is a fabulous side that everyone will love!
These sides not only make your meal more filling but also create a wonderful balance of flavors and textures on your plate. Enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers (which I hope you do because it’s just as tasty the next day!), here’s how to store and reheat them so they stay delicious:
- Storing: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also slice it first for easier portioning!
- Freezing: If you want to save it for later, meatloaf freezes beautifully! Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: To reheat, you can pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but I recommend wrapping it in a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Just be careful not to overdo it in the microwave, or it might dry out!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your air fryer meatloaf long after it’s made. Happy feasting!
FAQ Section
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier than beef, so I recommend adding a little extra moisture, like an additional splash of milk or a spoonful of ketchup, to keep it juicy. It’ll still be delicious, trust me!
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is by using a meat thermometer. You’ll want the internal temperature to reach 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have a thermometer handy, you can also cut into the center—just make sure there’s no pink remaining and the juices run clear. Perfectly cooked meatloaf should be tender and juicy!
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, you can definitely freeze meatloaf! It freezes beautifully and is great for meal prep. Just let it cool completely first, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer-safe container. It should last about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned before. Easy peasy!
Print
Airfryer Meatloaf Recipe: 7 Juicy Tips for Perfection
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious air fryer meatloaf recipe that cooks quickly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- In a bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf.
- Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add your favorite seasonings.
- Top with additional ketchup before cooking for more flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: airfryer meatloaf recipe