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

Air fryer meatloaf is a quick and easy meal that can be made in a fraction of the time compared to cooking in an oven. It's a tasty, tender, and juicy dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight.

The ingredients typically include ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, and various seasonings. The glaze is usually made with ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.

The cooking process is simple: mix the ingredients, form the mixture into a loaf, air fry for around 15-20 minutes, add the glaze, and air fry for another 5-10 minutes. The ideal temperature is 350°F, and the meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

You can also add your own twist with different types of meat, sauces, cheeses, or vegetables. It's a versatile and convenient dish that the whole family will enjoy.

Choosing the right meat

• Fat Content: Go for lean ground meat to reduce grease and smoke in your air fryer. Look for ground beef with a ratio of 80/20 or 85/15, which will help the meatloaf hold together better and reduce the amount of grease dripping into the pan.
• Meat Combination: You can experiment with different combinations of ground meats, such as beef and turkey or beef and pork, to find your preferred taste and texture. This can add more depth of flavor to your meatloaf.
• Quality: Opt for high-quality, fresh meat from a reliable source. The quality of the meat will impact the overall taste and texture of your meatloaf.
• Seasoning: Don't be afraid to season your meat generously. You can use a pre-made meatloaf seasoning packet or create your own blend with spices like onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or Worcestershire sauce.
• Quantity: The standard amount of meat used in most air fryer meatloaf recipes is around 1-2 pounds. This will give you a decent-sized meatloaf that serves about 4 people. Adjust the quantity based on your air fryer size and the number of servings you need.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, choose a type of meat that you enjoy eating. If you're not a fan of beef, you can try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Remember to check the internal temperature of your meatloaf with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F for food safety. Enjoy experimenting with different types of meat to find your perfect air fryer meatloaf!

Preparing the glaze

While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the glaze by mixing together the ingredients in a small bowl. The ingredients you use will depend on your taste preferences. Here are some options:

• Ketchup and BBQ sauce
• Ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce
• Ketchup, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce
• Ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce

You can also add an extra kick of flavour to your glaze by using buffalo sauce, chilli sauce, or a dash of hot sauce.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking temperature and time for making meatloaf in an air fryer vary depending on the type and size of the air fryer, as well as the ingredients used. However, here is a detailed guide on the cooking time and temperature for making meatloaf in an air fryer:

Cooking Temperature:

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F or 380°F. This temperature setting is generally suitable for cooking meatloaf, regardless of the type of meat used, such as beef, turkey, pork, or veal.

Cooking Time:

• The cooking time will depend on the size of your meatloaf and the specific model of your air fryer. For a typical meatloaf, the cooking process can be divided into two stages:
• First Stage: Place the shaped meatloaf into the air fryer and cook for 15-20 minutes.
• Second Stage: After the initial cooking period, apply a glaze or sauce to the meatloaf and continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Ensuring Doneness:

• To ensure that your meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. The meatloaf is ready when the thermometer inserted into the centre reaches at least 155-165°F.
• After removing the meatloaf from the air fryer, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that your meatloaf is juicy and flavourful.

Tips for Optimal Cooking:

• It is recommended to shape the meat mixture into two smaller loaves rather than one large loaf. This reduces the cooking time and ensures even cooking.
• Avoid overmixing the meat; mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Preheat the air fryer before adding the meatloaf to ensure even cooking.
• Always use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf, as air fryers can vary in performance.
• Check the meatloaf early to prevent overcooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.

Storing and Reheating:

• Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat, place the meatloaf slices back into the air fryer and cook at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until heated through.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your air-fried meatloaf is cooked to perfection, resulting in a juicy, flavourful, and comforting meal.

Resting the meatloaf

Depending on the size of your meatloaf, you should let it rest for around 3-5 minutes. This will also give you time to prepare any side dishes or sauces to accompany your meal.

It is important not to skip this step, as resting the meatloaf will ensure it is cooked perfectly and help it maintain its shape when served.

Storing and reheating

When reheating, ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F for food safety. You can reheat your meatloaf in the air fryer at 350°F for three to five minutes, or in the microwave. If you froze your meatloaf, be sure to thaw it completely before reheating.

Frequently asked questions