Air Fryer Meatloaf: A Quick And Easy Dinner Solution

Air fryer meatloaf is a quick and easy meal that can be made in about half the time it takes to cook in an oven. It is also a healthier option as the fat drips away from the meatloaf, and it develops a tasty crust. The best temperature to cook meatloaf in an air fryer is 350°F, and it should be cooked for about 30 minutes. The ingredients typically include breadcrumbs, milk, ground beef, onion, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper. The glaze is usually made with ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.

Meatloaf ingredients and prep

To make a meatloaf in an air fryer, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Egg
• Onion
• Salt
• Pepper
• Thyme
• Ketchup
• Apple cider vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Worcestershire sauce
• Cooking spray
• Olive oil

You can also add other ingredients like garlic, mustard, parsley, Italian seasoning, or ground red pepper to give your meatloaf extra flavour.

Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing your meatloaf:

• In a medium bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs and milk and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This helps to soften the breadcrumbs and add moisture to the meatloaf.
• Add the ground beef, onion, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the breadcrumbs. Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix the meat, as this can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
• Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape. The ideal size for an air fryer is about 3 x 4.5 inches, but you may need to adjust this depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Prepare the glaze by stirring together the ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
• Spray the air fryer basket generously with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket and spray it with cooking spray or olive oil. This will help the meatloaf develop a crispy, browned exterior.
• Set the air fryer to 350°F and cook the meatloaf for 15-25 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model, so it's a good idea to start checking the meatloaf after 15 minutes.
• Towards the end of the cooking time, brush the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. Continue cooking until the glaze is browned and the meatloaf is cooked through.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to check the doneness of the meatloaf. Insert the thermometer into the centre of the meatloaf; it should reach an internal temperature of at least 155°F to be safe to eat.
• Remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps the meatloaf firm up.

Air fryer settings

Firstly, preheating the air fryer is optional. Some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), while others recommend 360°F (182°C). However, one recipe successfully cooks the meatloaf without preheating at all.

Secondly, the cooking time and temperature for your meatloaf will depend on various factors, including the size and composition of your meatloaf. Most recipes suggest cooking the meatloaf for around 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, one recipe recommends cooking at 370°F, while another suggests 375°F. It's important to monitor your meatloaf to prevent overcooking or burning. Check your meatloaf after 15 minutes, and adjust the temperature if necessary.

Thirdly, it is essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf is cooked thoroughly. The ideal internal temperature for a meatloaf varies slightly between recipes, ranging from 155°F (68°C) to 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the centre of the meatloaf to get an accurate reading.

Finally, allow your meatloaf to rest after cooking. Resting the meatloaf for 5 to 10 minutes lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicy and flavoursome dish.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and you may need to adjust the settings based on your air fryer's specific characteristics and your personal preferences. Always refer to your air fryer's instruction manual for further guidance on settings and safety precautions.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking temperature and time for a meatloaf in an air fryer will depend on the type and size of the air fryer, as well as the size of the meatloaf.

Most sources recommend preheating the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). However, one source recommends 370°F, while another suggests 375°F.

Cooking times vary from 20 minutes to 35 minutes. The meatloaf should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 155°F to 165°F. This will depend on the thickness of the meatloaf and the type of meat used. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf to ensure it is cooked thoroughly.

For a meatloaf weighing 2 pounds, one source recommends cooking it for 35 minutes at 350°F. Another source suggests cooking a meatloaf for 20 minutes at the same temperature, then adding a topping and cooking for an additional 10 minutes. This source also recommends using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

It is important to note that air fryers can vary in terms of cooking time and temperature, so adjustments may be necessary. It is also suggested to let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier meatloaf.

Meatloaf toppings and glaze

Glazes

A glaze is a sauce or mixture that is spread over the meatloaf before cooking. It helps to seal in the juices and keep the meatloaf moist, while also adding flavour. Some common ingredients used in meatloaf glazes include:

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Apple cider vinegar
• Worcestershire sauce
• Lemon juice
• Mustard
• BBQ sauce
• Chili powder

To make a glaze, simply mix your desired ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth. You can adjust the quantities of each ingredient to suit your taste preferences. For a sweeter glaze, increase the amount of brown sugar or add a drizzle of honey. For a tangier glaze, add more vinegar or lemon juice.

Toppings

Toppings can be added to a meatloaf before or after cooking, depending on the desired effect. Here are some ideas for meatloaf toppings:

• Breadcrumbs: These can be sprinkled on top of the meatloaf before cooking to add a crunchy texture.
• Cheese: Try grated cheddar, Swiss, or Parmesan cheese on top of the meatloaf a few minutes before the end of the cooking time.
• Bacon: Layer bacon slices on top of the meatloaf before cooking for a salty, crispy topping.
• Onions: Caramelised onions can be mixed with the meatloaf mixture or spread on top before cooking for added flavour and moisture.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley on top of the cooked meatloaf for a burst of flavour.

When making meatloaf in an air fryer, it is important to consider the size and shape of the meatloaf. Air fryers work best with smaller, evenly shaped meatloaves that allow hot air to circulate around them. Be sure to spray the air fryer basket generously with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.

Resting and serving

Once your meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 5 minutes, but preferably 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meatloaf to firm up, making it easier to slice.

The resting time will also give you a chance to prepare any side dishes or garnishes. Mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables are popular side dishes for meatloaf. You can also serve it with a gravy or sauce, such as the leftover glaze, BBQ sauce, or balsamic vinegar.

After resting, transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice it. It is now ready to be served!

Leftovers can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can be reheated in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 to 5 minutes.

Frequently asked questions