air fryer meat loaf recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best air fryer meat loaf recipe

I’ve been making meat loaf in the air fryer for a while now, and it’s become a staple in our household. My family loves it because it’s easy to make and always turns out delicious.

The air fryer helps to keep the meat loaf moist and flavorful, and it’s a great way to get a crispy crust on the outside without having to use a lot of oil. I love that this recipe is also relatively healthy compared to traditional meat loaf recipes, which can be high in fat and calories.

Plus, it’s a great way to get some protein into our meals without having to spend too much time cooking. The best part about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – we can serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even as a sandwich on its own.

It’s also a great way to use up leftover ingredients, like chopped onions and bell peppers. We’ve even made this recipe with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.

My kids love helping me mix together the ingredients, and they always get excited when they see the finished product coming out of the air fryer.

Air Fryer Meat Loaf

4.8 from 701 votes

A classic meat loaf recipe adapted for the air fryer, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish with a crispy exterior. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meat Loaf

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Glaze

1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp yellow mustard

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
2Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together when pressed.
4Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
5While it is heating, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape that fits in your air fryer basket.
6Make sure it is compact and even.
7Place the meat loaf in the preheated air fryer basket.
8Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
9The meat loaf should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
10While the meat loaf is cooking, prepare the glaze by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl.
11Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
12After the initial 20 minutes of cooking, brush the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meat loaf.
13Return the meat loaf to the air fryer and cook for an additional 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
14The glaze should be slightly caramelized and the meat loaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
15Remove the meat loaf from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
16This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat loaf, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Air fryer
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 9g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

This air fryer meat loaf recipe is always a hit at our family gatherings, and it’s easy to make ahead of time for busy weeknights. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it reheats – simply place it back in the air fryer and cook until heated through.

We love serving this with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that everyone enjoys. Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra protein into our diets without having to spend too much time cooking.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Meat Loaf

Q: What is the ideal temperature for cooking meat loaf in the air fryer?

A: The ideal temperature for cooking meat loaf in the air fryer is around 375°F (190°C). This will help to cook the meat evenly and prevent it from drying out.

Q: Can I use any type of ground meat for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use any type of ground meat you prefer – beef, pork, turkey, or chicken all work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you’re using.

Q: How do I know if my meat loaf is cooked through?

A: To check if your meat loaf is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for poultry.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the ingredients and assembling the meat loaf before refrigerating or freezing it. When you’re ready to cook it, simply place it in the air fryer and cook according to the instructions.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

A: This recipe is gluten-free and can be adapted to suit other dietary needs by substituting ingredients such as gluten-free breadcrumbs or using dairy-free milk alternatives.

Q: Can I store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container?

A: Yes, leftover meat loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Similar Posts