The Air Fryer Meatloaf is a modern twist on a classic comfort food, offering a quick and efficient way to enjoy a hearty meal. The air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures a beautifully browned exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. This method is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a delicious homemade meal without the long wait. The convenience of the air fryer makes it an indispensable tool in the kitchen, allowing you to prepare this delightful dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

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Ingredients and Equipment

To create this delectable meatloaf, you will need a specific set of ingredients and tools. The primary ingredients include 1 pound of ground round (85/15), 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion, 1/4 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup bread crumbs, 1 large egg (lightly beaten), 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh thyme (plus more for garnish), 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. For the glaze, gather 1 tablespoon of ketchup, 1/2 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of light brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Don’t forget the cooking spray to ensure a non-stick surface.

In terms of equipment, you’ll need an air fryer, a medium-sized mixing bowl, a small bowl for the glaze, a cooking spray, a spatula, and an instant-read thermometer to check the meatloaf’s doneness.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Begin by organizing all your ingredients. This ensures a smooth cooking process and helps prevent any last-minute rushes.

Start with the meatloaf mixture. Combine the bread crumbs and milk in a medium-sized bowl, allowing the mixture to sit for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the bread crumbs absorb the milk, resulting in a tender meatloaf. Once the mixture is ready, add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, lightly beaten egg, fresh thyme, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly but gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can result in a dense loaf.

While the breadcrumb mixture is soaking, form the meat mixture into two rectangular shapes, each approximately 3 x 4 1/2 inches. This size is ideal for even cooking in the air fryer.

Next, prepare the glaze by mixing the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. This sweet and tangy glaze will add a delightful flavor to the meatloaf.

Cooking Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Preheating is essential to ensure even cooking.

Generously spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to simplify cleanup. Place the shaped meatloaf rectangles into the basket and spray the tops with cooking spray. This helps achieve a nice, browned exterior.

Roast the meatloaf in the preheated air fryer for 20 to 25 minutes. After about 18 minutes of cooking, brush the meatloaf evenly with the prepared ketchup glaze. Continue cooking until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of at least 155 degrees F (68 degrees C) as measured with an instant-read thermometer.

Once cooked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the air fryer basket and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Garnish with additional thyme leaves before serving to add a touch of freshness.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Best practices for mixing ingredients without overworking:

Mix gently to combine ingredients without making the mixture tough.
Use a fork or your hands to lightly blend the meat mixture.

Alternatives for fresh thyme:

Substitute with dried thyme, using one-third of the amount.
Use other herbs like rosemary or oregano for different flavor profiles.

Adjustments for different air fryer models:

Check your air fryer’s manual for specific cooking guidelines.
Adjust cooking times as needed, since different models may vary in heat distribution.

Tips for easy cleanup with parchment paper:

Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Ensure the paper does not touch the heating element to avoid burning.

Common issues and troubleshooting:

If the meatloaf is too dry, ensure you are not overcooking it and add a bit more milk to the mixture.
For a moist meatloaf, avoid overmixing the meat and other ingredients.

Storage and reheating tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 300 degrees F until warmed through.

Substitutes for missing ingredients:

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a different flavor.
Replace bread crumbs with crushed crackers or oats for a unique texture.

Adjusting the recipe for different dietary needs:

For a low-carb version, substitute bread crumbs with almond flour.
Use egg substitutes for a vegan-friendly option.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Pair your air fryer meatloaf with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal. Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables are classic choices that complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf. Consider adding a fresh salad or steamed greens for a lighter option. For a touch of indulgence, serve with a creamy gravy or tangy barbecue sauce. Beverage pairings such as a robust red wine or a refreshing iced tea can elevate the dining experience.

This Air Fryer Meatloaf recipe offers a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a beloved classic. With its tender texture and flavorful glaze, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe and discover the convenience and taste that an air fryer brings to your kitchen. Share your results and enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade meatloaf made effortlessly.

Ingredients

Meatloaf:

1 pound ground round (85/15)
1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
1/4 cup whole milk
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, plus more for garnish
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Glaze:

1 tablespoon ketchup
1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Cooking spray

Directions

Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients. Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
To prepare the meatloaf, combine the breadcrumbs and milk in a medium-sized bowl and allow the mixture to rest for 5 minutes. Next, incorporate the ground beef, chopped onion, lightly beaten egg, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well blended, taking care not to overmix.
While the breadcrumb mixture is soaking, shape the beef mixture into two rectangles, each approximately 3 x 4 1/2 inches.
For the glaze, mix together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. Set aside for later use.
Generously spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to simplify cleanup. Place the meatloaf rectangles into the basket and spray the tops generously with cooking spray. Roast the meatloaf in the preheated air fryer for 20 to 25 minutes. After 18 minutes of cooking, brush the meatloaf evenly with the prepared ketchup mixture. The meatloaf is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 155 degrees F (68 degrees C) as measured with an instant-read thermometer.
Carefully remove the meatloaf from the air fryer basket and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with additional thyme leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious air fryer meatloaf!