The air fryer has transformed the way we prepare our favorite dishes, making it a kitchen superhero.
It is well-known for its capacity to produce crispy, tasty dishes while using minimal oil. But how about the meatloaf? Can this traditional comfort food be prepared perfectly in an air fryer?
In this article, we’ll delve into the realm of air fryer meatloaf and provide a step-by-step approach to achieving meatloaf perfection.
Can You Cook Meatloaf In An Air Fryer?
The answer is yes, you can use an air fryer to cook meatloaf.
This time-honored recipe may be prepared in a simple and time-saving manner by using an air fryer to complete the cooking process.
The following is an example of a straightforward recipe for preparing meatloaf in an air fryer:
Ingredients
For this simple meatloaf recipe, you’ll need ingredients for both the meat and the glaze. Before we begin, let’s double-check that you have everything you need!
Onion: Sauteed onions bring out the flavor of the ground beef.
Olive oil: Saute minced onion in olive oil, but you can also use vegetable oil, butter, or any other oil you choose.
Ground beef: Look for ground chuck that has only 15 to 20% fat. You don’t want ground beef that’s too lean.
Ground chuck retains its shape after cooking, and the flesh is moist and flavorful while remaining slightly firm.
You could also use ground turkey or pig. Just make sure it has enough fat to help it stick together.
Eggs: Eggs help to keep the ground beef together so that it doesn’t crumble.
Bread crumbs: You can purchase prepackaged bread crumbs or create your own by crushing up some of your leftover bread.
Ketchup: You’ll need ketchup for both the ground beef and the glaze, so make sure you have plenty.
Mustard: Mustard gives your meatloaf a little kick and complements the ketchup and seasonings.
Seasoning salt: For a burst of flavor, make sure you have seasoning salt on hand.
Pepper: A pinch of pepper goes well with everything else.
Garlic: Garlic powder will be used in both the meatloaf and the glaze. Because we’ve already used seasoning salt, don’t add garlic salt. Otherwise, it will be quite salty.
Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley enhances the flavor of the meat.
Milk: Milk is an important element in meatloaf since its moderate acidity helps break down the meat, making it soft and moist.
Brown sugar: A couple teaspoons of brown sugar will be required for the delicious glaze.
Directions
You’ll be creating meatloaf and a wonderfully sweet glaze from scratch for this quick air fryer meatloaf.
To begin, sauté the minced onion in 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Start combining the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, mustard, seasoning salt, pepper, ketchup, garlic powder, parsley, milk, and sautéed minced onion with your hands. Mix until all of the ingredients are well blended.
Combine the ingredients in a large mixing basin with the ground meat. You’ll probably need to use your hand to hold it together. Then, form it into a loaf 6 inches long, 4 inches broad, and 2 inches high.
Next, build a foil sling to make it simpler to take your cooked meatloaf from the air fryer. Remember that you don’t have to line the entire basket with foil.
Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket using the foil sling. At 370°F, your meatloaf will take 15 minutes to cook.
Make the sweet and tangy glaze while your meatloaf is cooking! Combine the ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and garlic powder in a small mixing basin.
Pour the glaze over the top of the meatloaf when the timer goes off.
Return the meatloaf to the air fryer and cook for another 15 minutes or until an internal temperature of 160 degrees is reached when tested with a meat thermometer.
Allow the meatloaf to cool for 5 to 10 minutes on the counter before slicing it.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 297 Calories
- 19g Fat
- 6g Carbs
- 25g Protein
Recipe Tips
Don’t overmix the meat; simply blend it.
Before adding the meatloaf, preheat the air fryer.
Because air fryers vary in temperature, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the interior temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165° F.
Check the meatloaf early to prevent it from overcooking. As needed, increase the time.
Rest the meatloaf before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 4 days, then reheat in an air fryer or microwave.
Variations
This classic recipe is traditionally made with ground beef. Other meats such as ground sausage, poultry, shellfish, or pork can be substituted. Use ground fake meat to make a vegetarian meatloaf.
For a more flavorful glaze, try buffalo sauce, chili sauce, or a dab of hot sauce.
For a different flavor and crisp surface, top with shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese.
For a slimmer meatloaf, use ground chicken, or turkey, or ground pork.
Add onion powder, an extra teaspoon garlic powder, or an extra 12 cups ketchup to the meat mixture for an added flavor boost.
Before cooking, combine the meatloaf mixture with small white button mushrooms or diced bell pepper to produce a complete dinner.
Finally, meatloaf can be cooked in an air fryer! You may have a tasty and healthier version of this classic comfort food with a few changes to your recipe and a little understanding of how the air fryer works. Whether you enjoy meatloaf or simply want a quick and excellent supper option, the air fryer has you covered.
Thanks for reading. I hope you find it helpful.
