Air-Fried Meatloaf: A Quick, Tasty Treat

Air fryer meatloaf is a quick and easy meal to make for the family. It's moist, full of flavour, and can be made in under 35 minutes. The air fryer is a great option for those who don't want to turn their ovens on during the summer.

There are a variety of recipes for air fryer meatloaf, but most recommend cooking the meatloaf at 350°F for around 30 minutes. You can use ground beef, turkey, or chicken, and add your own herbs and spices for extra flavour.

Some recipes suggest adding a glaze to the meatloaf, which can include ketchup, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and/or apple cider vinegar.

Air fryer meatloaf is a convenient and tasty option for a weeknight dinner.

Meatloaf ingredients and alternatives

Meatloaf is a classic dish that can be made with various ingredients and cooked in different ways. Here are some common ingredients used in meatloaf recipes, along with alternatives that you can explore:

Meat

The type of meat you use is crucial to the flavour and texture of your meatloaf. While ground beef is the most traditional choice and the one that gives the best flavour, you can also experiment with other options:

• Ground turkey: A healthier alternative to beef, ground turkey can be used in place of beef or mixed with it. Just make sure to cook the meatloaf to an internal temperature of 165°F if using turkey.
• Ground pork: Adding ground pork to your beef mixture can enhance the flavour and juiciness of your meatloaf. You can substitute half a pound of lean ground pork for some of the beef.
• Ground chicken: Similar to turkey, ground chicken is a leaner option that can be used as a substitute for beef or in combination with it.
• Italian sausage: For a bolder flavour profile, you can replace some of the beef with Italian sausage. This will add a nice kick to your meatloaf.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs are essential for holding the meatloaf together and giving it the right texture. Here are some options to consider:

• Italian or seasoned breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs add extra flavour to your meatloaf due to their herbs and spices.
• Panko breadcrumbs: If you're looking for a crunchier texture, Panko breadcrumbs are a great choice. They are coarser and result in a crispier meatloaf.
• Regular breadcrumbs: These are the most common type of breadcrumbs and can be easily found in stores. They will help bind your meatloaf without overpowering its flavour.

Eggs

Eggs act as a binder in meatloaf, helping it hold together during cooking and cutting. While eggs are a common ingredient, you can also try the following alternatives:

• Milk: Milk can be used as a substitute for eggs to help bind the meatloaf. It also adds moisture, ensuring your meatloaf is juicy and tender.
• Yoghurt: Plain yoghurt can be used in place of eggs to add moisture and help bind the meatloaf. It also contributes to a softer texture.

Onions

Onions are a key ingredient in meatloaf, adding flavour and moisture. Here are some tips and alternatives to consider:

• Fresh onions: Finely chop or dice your onions to ensure they cook through properly. You can also sauté them before adding them to the meat mixture to soften their flavour.
• Onion powder: If you don't want chunks of onion in your meatloaf, onion powder is a great alternative. It provides a more subtle onion flavour that blends seamlessly into the meat.
• Shallots: For a milder onion flavour, you can use shallots. They have a slightly sweeter taste that can enhance the overall flavour of your meatloaf.

Seasonings

Seasonings are what make your meatloaf unique and delicious. While you can use a variety of seasonings, here are some common ones and their alternatives:

• Salt and pepper: These are essential for enhancing the flavours of the other ingredients.
• Fresh parsley: Parsley adds a bright, fresh flavour to your meatloaf. You can use fresh or dried parsley, depending on your preference.
• Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs and spices commonly includes basil, oregano, and rosemary. It adds a savoury and aromatic touch to your meatloaf.
• Garlic powder: If you don't want to use fresh garlic cloves, garlic powder is a convenient alternative. It provides a similar flavour without the hassle of mincing garlic.
• Worcestershire sauce: A dash of Worcestershire sauce can add a savoury, tangy flavour to your meatloaf.
• Mustard: Whether you use prepared mustard or dry ground mustard, it can enhance the flavour of your meatloaf without being overpowering.

Remember, the key to a great meatloaf is to not overmix the ingredients and to let it rest after cooking to retain its juices and ensure it doesn't fall apart when sliced.

Air fryer temperature and timings

The ideal temperature to cook meatloaf in an air fryer is 350°F. This is the case regardless of the type of meat used. At this temperature, the meatloaf will be cooked in 30 minutes. However, air fryers vary, so it is recommended to start checking the meatloaf after 15 minutes. To ensure the meatloaf is cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be at least 160°F.

After removing the meatloaf from the air fryer, let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy meatloaf.

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
• Combine the meat, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, seasonings, and any other desired ingredients in a large bowl. Mix until everything is evenly distributed, being careful not to overmix the meat.
• Form the mixture into a loaf shape. The recommended size is around 4x6 inches and 2 inches high.
• Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket. It is suggested to spray the basket with oil or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
• Cook the meatloaf for 15 minutes at 350°F.
• While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the glaze or topping by mixing ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, or any other desired ingredients in a small bowl.
• After 15 minutes, brush the glaze onto the meatloaf and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
• Remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Glaze ingredients and alternatives

A glaze is a great way to add flavour and moisture to your meatloaf, and there are many ways to make one. Here are some ideas for ingredients and alternatives:

• Ketchup is a classic meatloaf glaze ingredient, and for good reason. It is sweet, tangy, and pairs perfectly with ground beef. If you don't have ketchup on hand, you can substitute with BBQ sauce, tomato paste, or a combination of tomato sauce and brown sugar.
• BBQ sauce is another popular option and can be used as a base for your glaze. Choose your favourite variety—whether it's a sweet and sticky sauce or a smokey and spicy one—and brush it on your meatloaf for a delicious flavour.
• Brown sugar adds a wonderful sweetness and depth of flavour to your glaze. You can substitute it with other sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or even fruit jam.
• Mustard is a great addition to your glaze, providing a sharp, tangy flavour. You can use yellow, dijon, or wholegrain mustard, depending on your preference.
• Worcestershire sauce is a savoury, slightly sweet, and tangy condiment that can add depth of flavour to your glaze. Soy sauce or liquid aminos can be used as a substitute.
• Apple cider vinegar brings a tangy, fruity flavour to your glaze. If you don't have apple cider vinegar, you can use other mild vinegars like white wine vinegar or rice vinegar.
• Spices and herbs can enhance the flavour of your glaze. Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or paprika to your glaze for an extra kick of flavour.
• Horseradish is a secret ingredient that adds moisture and a subtle kick to your meatloaf. If you don't have horseradish, you can substitute it with an equal amount of milk.

When making a glaze, simply combine your chosen ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. You can adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences. Remember to reserve some of the glaze for serving on the side as a dipping sauce!

Meatloaf prep and shaping

To make a delicious meatloaf in your air fryer, you'll need to prepare the meat mixture, form it into a loaf, and cook it to perfection. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Prepare the Meat Mixture:

Start by gathering your ingredients, including ground beef, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, and your choice of seasonings and flavourings. You can also add in some vegetables like onions or green peppers for extra flavour and texture. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, mixing them thoroughly but being careful not to overwork the meat. You can use your clean hands or a large spoon for this step.

Shape the Meatloaf:

Once your meat mixture is ready, it's time to shape it into a loaf. Spray your air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Then, form the meat mixture into a loaf shape directly in the air fryer basket. Make sure the loaf isn't too thick, so it cooks evenly all the way through. Aim for a uniform shape from end to end.

Cook the Meatloaf:

Place the air fryer basket back into the air fryer and set the temperature to 350°F. Depending on the size of your meatloaf and the model of your air fryer, the cooking time may vary. For a smaller meatloaf, cook for around 15 minutes, then add your glaze or topping of choice and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes. The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

Tips for Shaping and Cooking:

• Don't preheat the air fryer basket before shaping the meatloaf, as it can increase the risk of burning yourself.
• Avoid making the meatloaf too thick to ensure even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and determine doneness.
• Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a juicy, tender loaf.

Resting and serving

While the meatloaf is resting, you can prepare any side dishes. Mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, but you could also try air fryer asparagus, air fryer corn on the cob, air fryer zucchini chips, or air fryer carrots. Garlic cheese bread is another tasty option.

Once the meatloaf has rested, use a sharp knife to slice it. You can then serve it with any leftover glaze or dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions