Meatloaf In The Air Fryer: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryer meatloaf is a quick, easy, and tasty dinner option that can be made in a fraction of the time compared to cooking a meatloaf in the oven. It is also a healthier option as the fat drips away from the meat into the pan. The best temperature to cook meatloaf in an air fryer is 350°F for 20-30 minutes. The meatloaf is done when an internal temperature of 155-165°F is reached.

What temperature to cook meatloaf in an air fryer

Cooking Meatloaf in an Air Fryer

Cooking meatloaf in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a tasty meal. The best temperature to cook meatloaf in an air fryer is generally agreed to be 350°F, regardless of the type of meat used.

Preparing the Meatloaf

Firstly, gather your ingredients. You will need breadcrumbs, milk, ground meat of your choice (beef, turkey, pork, or veal), egg, and seasonings such as onion, thyme, salt, and pepper. You can also add other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavour.

In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk, letting them sit for a few minutes to soften. Then, add the remaining ingredients and mix until well combined, being careful not to overmix the meat.

Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape. Most recipes recommend making two smaller loaves instead of one large one, as it cooks more evenly and allows for better air circulation in the air fryer.

Cooking Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket, which can be lined with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup, although this is not necessary.

Cook the meatloaf at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. After this initial cooking period, brush the meatloaf with a glaze made from ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.

Return the meatloaf to the air fryer and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the centre of the loaf reads an internal temperature of at least 155-160°F.

Serving and Storing

Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and flavourful meatloaf.

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for later use.

Tips for Success

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer. Make sure there is space between multiple loaves and around each one to allow for proper air circulation.
• Avoid cooking at too high a temperature, as this can burn the meatloaf.
• Rest the meatloaf after cooking to ensure it is juicy and easier to slice.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, ensuring the meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Mix all the ingredients except the meat first, and then add the meat last to avoid overmixing.
• Use a spatula to remove the meatloaf from the air fryer basket gently and easily.
• Lean ground beef is recommended to reduce grease and smoke during cooking.

How to get the meatloaf out of the air fryer basket

Cooking meatloaf in an air fryer is a great way to save time and still enjoy a delicious, juicy meal. But how do you get the meatloaf out of the air fryer basket without making a mess? Here are some tips to help you remove it easily and safely:

Use a Spatula

Using a large spatula can be an effective way to lift the meatloaf out of the basket, as suggested by The Country Cook. Make sure the spatula is sturdy and has a large enough surface area to support the meatloaf. Slide the spatula under the meatloaf carefully and lift it out of the basket.

Line the Basket with Foil or Parchment Paper

Before placing the meatloaf in the air fryer, you can line the basket with foil or parchment paper. This method is recommended by My Forking Life. It provides a barrier between the meatloaf and the basket, making it easier to remove once cooked. When removing the meatloaf, simply lift it out by holding the edges of the foil or parchment paper.

Allow Cooling Time

Letting the meatloaf cool down slightly before attempting to remove it from the air fryer basket can help it hold its shape better. As suggested by Allrecipes, waiting for about 5 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meatloaf stays juicy and also making it easier to handle.

Form the Meatloaf for Easy Removal

When shaping your meatloaf, consider forming it into a shape that will be easier to remove from the basket. For example, a rectangular or oval shape with fairly straight sides can be easier to lift out than a more rounded or domed shape.

Use a Grill Tray

If you have a grill tray that fits in your air fryer, you may find it easier to remove the meatloaf. My Forking Life mentions that a grill tray can be handier than the basket and easier to clean. The meatloaf can be placed directly on the tray, and then the tray can be lifted out of the air fryer once the meatloaf is cooked.

How long to cook meatloaf in an air fryer

Air fryer meatloaf is a quick and convenient way to cook a tasty, tender, and juicy meatloaf without having to turn on your oven. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you don't have much time to spare but still want a delicious, comforting meal.

Ingredients

The ingredients you'll need for your meatloaf will depend on your personal preference and the recipe you're following. However, some common ingredients include:

• Ground beef, pork, turkey, or chicken
• Breadcrumbs or crackers
• Milk
• Egg
• Onion, either finely chopped or in powder form
• Seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or dry ground mustard
• Glaze or topping made with ketchup, BBQ sauce, or a combination of the two

Air Fryer Settings and Timing

When cooking meatloaf in an air fryer, it's best to set the temperature to 350°F to 370°F. The cooking time will depend on the size of your meatloaf and the power of your air fryer, but on average, it should take around 20 to 30 minutes.

For a more precise measurement, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your meatloaf. You'll know it's done when it reaches an internal temperature of 155°F to 165°F.

Tips for Success

• Don't overmix the meat. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to prevent the meatloaf from becoming tough.
• Form the meat into a loaf shape, but don't make it too thick to ensure even cooking.
• Brush or spoon the glaze or topping onto the meatloaf towards the end of the cooking time.
• Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute and make it easier to slice.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

How to store leftover meatloaf

When storing leftover meatloaf, it's important to consider how long it's been since the meatloaf was cooked, and whether you intend to freeze it or not.

If you've just cooked the meatloaf and don't plan on eating it until the next day, you can place the cooked meatloaf in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator overnight. It's important to let the meatloaf cool down completely before placing it in the fridge. The meatloaf should be eaten within a day or two of being cooked.

If you want to store the meatloaf for longer than two days, you'll need to place it in the freezer. To do this, wrap the meatloaf very well with plastic wrap and place it in an airtight freezer bag. Raw meatloaf can be frozen for up to six months, while cooked meatloaf can be frozen for up to three months.

When reheating frozen meatloaf, it's best to thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat it in the oven or microwave. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 1.5 hours, or in the microwave on low settings in 2-minute increments until warm.

Leftover meatloaf can be used in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, casseroles, tacos, and more. You can also crumble the meatloaf and use it in place of ground beef in recipes.

What to serve with meatloaf

Meatloaf is a hearty meal, and there are plenty of side dishes that can complement it. Here are some ideas for what to serve with your meatloaf:

Mashed potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with meatloaf. The smooth texture of the potatoes contrasts with the meatloaf's hearty bite, creating a delightful balance of flavours and textures.

Roasted vegetables

Roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, bell peppers, and butternut squash can add a burst of colour to your plate. The caramelised edges of the roasted veggies bring out their natural sweetness, which goes well with the savoury notes of the meatloaf.

Garlic-infused green beans

Tender-crisp beans with a hint of garlic offer a refreshing element that balances the richness of the meatloaf.

Caesar salad

A crisp Caesar salad can also be a nice pairing with meatloaf. The crisp lettuce, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the dense meatloaf.

Macaroni and cheese

Mac and cheese is another classic comfort food that goes well with meatloaf. The cheesy goodness complements the comforting qualities of the meatloaf, creating a truly satisfying meal.

Baked beans

Baked beans are sweet, smoky, and savoury, making them a perfect pairing with meat. They are easy to make and simple to serve, and their versatility means they can be enjoyed in both winter and summer.

Rice pilaf

Rice pilaf is a tasty and simple side dish that goes well with meatloaf. You can also serve it with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables.

Cornbread

Cornbread is quick and easy to make and can add a crunchy texture to your meal.

Mini-quiches

For a more unique side dish, you can make mini-quiches by mixing egg, cream, grated cheddar, and spring onions with bacon bits and cooking them in ramekins.

These are just a few ideas, but feel free to get creative and experiment with different side dishes to find your perfect pairing!

Frequently asked questions