Tiffany Haney
Air fryer meatloaf is a quick and easy meal that can be made in under half an hour. It's perfect for a busy weeknight as it doesn't require preheating and it doesn't heat up the kitchen. The Nuwave Air Fryer Oven is a popular choice for cooking meatloaf, but cook times can vary depending on the size and model of the air fryer. For example, a smaller air fryer may cook the meatloaf in 20-25 minutes, while a larger 10qt Nuwave Air Fryer may require a little more time. To ensure the meatloaf is cooked through, it should reach an internal temperature of 155-160°F.
Cooking Meatloaf in a Nuwave Fryer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 350-375ºF |
| Cook Time | 15-35 minutes |
| Rest Time | 5-10 minutes |
| Internal Temperature | 155-160ºF |
| Cleanup | Line the basket with foil to catch grease and juices |
| Size | 1-2 pounds of ground beef |
| Shape | Flat and rectangular for even cooking |
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What You'll Learn
Meatloaf recipe ingredients
A classic meatloaf is made with ground beef, but you can also use ground chicken or turkey as a substitute. For a classic beef meatloaf, you'll need beef, egg, breadcrumbs, and a simple tomato-based topping. You can also add onion, garlic, thyme, pepper, and salt to the mix.
If you're using lean beef, go for 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and consistency without too much fat. You can also add extra flavors and moisture by adding seasonings and soaking the breadcrumbs in milk.
For the glaze, you can mix ketchup, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. You can also add cooking spray to the glaze, and spray the air fryer basket generously to prevent sticking.
If you want to add extra vegetables to your meatloaf, you can include chopped onions, red bell peppers, mushrooms, and fresh garlic. You can also add Italian dry herbs, parsley, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
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Air fryer temperature and timings
The temperature and timing for cooking meatloaf in an air fryer depend on the type and size of the air fryer, the size of the meatloaf, and the desired level of browning.
It is important to note that air fryers vary in terms of their cooking times and temperatures. Therefore, it is recommended to keep a close eye on the food when using a new air fryer to get a sense of how quickly it cooks. For example, a 3.4 qt Power XL Air Fryer cooks food faster than a 10 qt Nuwave Air Fryer, which takes a little more time but fits more food.
When cooking meatloaf in an air fryer, it is generally recommended to set the temperature between 350°F and 375°F. The meatloaf should be cooked for about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the desired level of browning. It is suggested to start checking the meatloaf after 15 minutes to prevent overcooking. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the meatloaf should read at least 155°F (68°C).
For a 10 qt Nuwave Air Fryer, it is recommended to cook the meatloaf at 375°F for 25 minutes. Then, slather it with glaze and cook for another 10 minutes at the same temperature, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This process may take about 35 minutes in total.
It is worth noting that the size of the meatloaf also affects the cooking time. Most recipes call for 2 pounds of ground beef, but this amount is too large for a standard air fryer. Therefore, it is recommended to use 1 pound of ground beef and form it into a rectangle with a thickness of about 2 inches for even cooking.
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Meatloaf preparation
To prepare meatloaf in a Nuwave fryer, you'll first need to gather your ingredients. The exact ingredients may vary depending on the recipe you choose, but typically, you'll need ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, an egg, chopped onion, and seasonings like thyme, salt, and pepper. Some recipes also call for the addition of Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar for a tangy glaze.
Once you have your ingredients, start by mixing the breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl and let them sit for about 5 minutes. Then, add the ground beef, onion, egg, and seasonings, mixing until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meat tough. Form the mixture into a rectangular loaf with an even thickness of about 2 inches.
Next, prepare your Nuwave fryer by creating a foil "cradle" for the meatloaf. Take a piece of foil larger than the loaf, curl up the edges, and place it in the fryer basket, ensuring it doesn't cover the entire basket to allow air flow. Spray the foil with non-stick spray or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the meatloaf on the foil and air fry at 350-375°F for 20-25 minutes. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the meatloaf with your chosen glaze. The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 155-160°F. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the centre of the meatloaf to check.
After cooking, remove the meatloaf from the fryer and let it rest for at least 5 minutes, ideally 10, to allow the juices to redistribute and the loaf to firm up. This will make it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your juicy, tender meatloaf with your favourite sides!
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Glaze ingredients and application
A glaze is essential to a good meatloaf, providing a tangy, sweet, and sticky sauce that makes the dish memorable. The glaze also has a functional role, as it helps prevent the outer part of the meatloaf from drying out, and it can even be served on the side as a dip.
There are many different glaze recipes, but most include a combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar, with additions such as mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and even a dash of cayenne pepper for heat. You can also use your favourite BBQ sauce, or a mixture of tomato sauce, vinegar, and honey as a substitute for ketchup.
To make the glaze, simply mix the ingredients together in a small bowl. You can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When your meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and spread the glaze evenly and thickly over the top. You can use a pastry brush for this. Then, return the glazed meatloaf to the oven and bake for a further 20–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155–165°F.
Finally, let the glazed meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
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Meatloaf serving suggestions
Meatloaf is a hearty and nourishing meal that is perfect for cold winter nights. It is also a versatile dish, meaning there are a variety of side dishes that can be served alongside it. Here are some serving suggestions to accompany your meatloaf:
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish to serve with meatloaf. To make them even more comforting, you can add sour cream, milk, parmesan, or garlic-and-herb goat cheese to add a bold, tangy flavour.
Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is another comforting dish that pairs well with meatloaf. This combination is sure to be a family favourite, especially on a cold night.
Green Beans
If you're looking for something healthier, green beans are a great option. You can dredge them in flour and egg, then coat them in a panko and crispy onion breading mixture, and bake them in the oven. This results in a golden, crunchy fry on the outside with a tender, flavorful green bean on the inside.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are sweet, smoky, and savoury, making them a perfect pairing with meatloaf. They are easy to make and simple to serve, so they are a great option if you're looking for something low-maintenance.
Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls are a simple and classic side dish that can be served with meatloaf. They are a great option if you're looking for something to soak up all the juicy flavours of the meatloaf.
Vegetables
If you're looking for something healthier, there are plenty of vegetable options that can be served with meatloaf. Some ideas include Italian peas, roasted Parmesan-garlic carrots, or a fresh vegetable of your choice.
Brown Gravy
If you're not a fan of meatloaf toppings, you can skip them altogether and serve your meatloaf with brown gravy instead. This can be homemade, leftover, or packaged.
Storing and Reheating
It is important to note that leftover meatloaf should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. To freeze, it is recommended to wrap the meatloaf in foil or freezer paper and place it in a zip-top freezer bag. Leftovers can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for food safety.
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Frequently asked questions
The cooking time depends on the size of the meatloaf and the model of the Nuwave fryer. A 10qt Nuwave Air Fryer Oven takes longer to cook than a smaller 3.4 qt Power XL Air Fryer. A 6-inch meatloaf should be cooked at 350°F (175°C) and a 9-inch meatloaf at 375°F (190°C). A meatloaf cooked at 375°F should be ready in about 25 minutes.
The temperature depends on the size of the meatloaf. A 6-inch meatloaf should be cooked at 350°F (175°C) and a 9-inch meatloaf at 375°F (190°C).
The best way to know if your meatloaf is cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of at least 155°F (68°C) in the centre.
You should form the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf of even thickness (about 2 inches thick) for even cooking. You can then form a piece of foil into a 'cradle' for the meatloaf, placing it in the fryer basket and spraying it with non-stick.
You should let the meatloaf rest for at least 5 minutes, and ideally 10-15 minutes, before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavoursome dish.
