Description
This Air Fryer Meatloaf recipe offers a quick and delicious way to prepare a classic comfort food with a perfectly moist interior and a flavorful, slightly caramelized ketchup glaze. Using an air fryer significantly reduces cooking time while ensuring even cooking and a tender texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 medium egg
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/3 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to come to temperature for optimal cooking results.
- Mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely diced onion, ketchup (reserve some for topping), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all components are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the meatloaf. Form the mixture into a compact loaf approximately six inches in length, ensuring an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Prepare the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking, then carefully place the shaped meatloaf inside.
- Cook the meatloaf. Air fry for 25-30 minutes until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Halfway through cooking, brush the top with additional ketchup to enhance flavor and create a glossy glaze.
- Rest before serving. Remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for five minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender final dish. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
- Using 80% lean ground beef balances flavor and fat for a juicy texture.
- You can customize the topping by adding a glaze made of ketchup mixed with a bit of brown sugar or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps maintain moisture.
- If your air fryer is smaller, you may need to reduce the loaf size or cook in batches.
