Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that can be made quickly and easily in the air fryer. This recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this air fryer meatloaf is both time-efficient and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
2. Shape and Cook the Meatloaf:
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
- Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape that will fit comfortably in your air fryer basket. You may need to adjust the size depending on your air fryer’s capacity.
- Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket. To prevent sticking, you can line the basket with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray.
3. Air Fry the Meatloaf:
- Air fry the meatloaf at 360°F (182°C) for 15 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the topping by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
- After 15 minutes, carefully spread the topping mixture over the meatloaf.
- Continue air frying for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is fully cooked. The exterior should be nicely caramelized and slightly crispy.
4. Serve:
- Remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices.
- Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Meatloaf:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to the proper temperature.
- Avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender and not too dense.
- Experiment with different toppings such as BBQ sauce, a mixture of brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, or your favorite glaze.
Variations:
- Ground Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Add a bit more seasoning to compensate for the lower fat content.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
This Quick Air Fryer Meatloaf Dinner is an easy and tasty way to enjoy a classic dish with minimal effort. The air fryer’s rapid cooking ensures a juicy, flavorful meatloaf with a delightful crispy crust, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal. Enjoy your delicious and speedy dinner!