Air-Fried Meatloaf: A Quick, Easy, And Delicious Treat

Air fryers have become a popular option for cooking meatloaf, with many recipes available online. Most recipes suggest cooking the meatloaf at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, although some suggest 370°F or 375°F. The best way to check if the meatloaf is cooked is to use a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should be at least 155°F, although some sources suggest 160°F or 165°F. Many recipes include a glaze made from ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, which is brushed on the meatloaf halfway through cooking.

Meatloaf ingredients and alternatives

The ingredients and their quantities for a meatloaf cooked in an air fryer will vary depending on the recipe used and the number of servings. However, here is a list of common ingredients and alternatives:

• Meat: Ground beef is a popular choice for meatloaf, with most recipes recommending 80-85% lean ground beef for a juicy texture. However, you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as alternatives. If using leaner meats, be aware that the meatloaf may dry out.
• Binder: Breadcrumbs are often used to bind the meatloaf together and help retain moisture. For a gluten-free option, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used. Some recipes also use torn-up pieces of bread softened in milk as a binder.
• Liquid: Milk is typically added to the meatloaf mixture to provide moisture and richness. Any type of milk, including plant-based milk, can be used.
• Egg: Eggs are usually included as a binding agent and to add moisture to the meatloaf.
• Vegetables: Finely chopped onions, either yellow or white, are commonly added for flavour and moisture. You can use fresh onions or onion powder.
• Seasonings: Common seasonings include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, thyme, and mustard. You can also add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or fresh herbs like basil for a new flavour profile.
• Toppings/Glaze: Meatloaf is often glazed with a mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. BBQ sauce, balsamic vinegar, or mustard can also be used as alternatives.

It is important to note that the above ingredients can be adjusted to personal preference and dietary restrictions. For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, and use plant-based milk. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also an option for those with gluten intolerance.

Preparing the glaze

The glaze should be prepared while the meatloaf is cooking. After the meatloaf has cooked for 15 minutes, remove it from the air fryer and spread the glaze over the top. You may not need all of the glaze, so save the leftovers to serve with the meatloaf.

If you want to try a different type of glaze, you can use BBQ sauce or balsamic vinegar instead of ketchup. Alternatively, you can add some Dijon mustard to the ketchup glaze for a different flavour.

Shaping the meatloaf

Some recipes suggest forming the meat mixture into two smaller loaves, which can be cooked side by side in the air fryer. This is because a large meatloaf may become too dark on the outside before cooking all the way through. Smaller loaves will also reduce the cooking time.

To make the meatloaf mixture easier to work with, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping it. This will help the meatloaf hold its shape better during cooking.

Additionally, you can spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the meatloaf from sticking and to make it easier to remove after cooking. You can also line the basket with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup, although this may affect how the fat drips away from the meatloaf.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The ideal temperature for cooking meatloaf in an air fryer is 350°F. However, some recipes suggest cooking at 370°F or even 375°F. It is important to note that air fryers vary, so it is recommended to start checking the meatloaf after 15 minutes.

The meatloaf should be cooked for around 20 to 25 minutes, or until the exterior is nicely browned. For a meatloaf weighing 2 pounds, it should take around 35 minutes to cook at 350°F. For a meatloaf weighing 1 pound, it should take around 30 minutes to cook at 350°F.

To ensure the meatloaf is cooked through, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 155°F, but ideally 160°F, at the thickest point.

After removing the meatloaf from the air fryer, it is important to let it rest for at least 5 minutes, but preferably 10 minutes, to allow the juices to redistribute and the loaf to firm up. This will result in a juicy and tender meatloaf that is easier to slice.

Resting and serving the meatloaf

Once your meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the air fryer basket and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. Ideally, you should let it rest for 10 minutes, as this allows the juices to redistribute and the loaf to firm up, making it easier to slice.

You can then transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice it. It's a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check that your meatloaf is cooked through. The internal temperature should be at least 160°F in the middle.

You can serve your meatloaf with mashed potatoes and a spinach salad with bacon, or use the leftovers to make a meatloaf sandwich with Swiss or Provolone cheese.

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, put the slices back in the air fryer basket and cook at 320°F for about 5 minutes.

Frequently asked questions