What To Know
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the air fryer basket.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cook the meatloaf for 45-60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Air fryer meatloaf can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. However, traditional meatloaf can be time-consuming to make and often results in a dry and dense loaf.
Enter the air fryer. This countertop appliance can cook meatloaf quickly and evenly, resulting in a tender and flavorful loaf that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients until well mixed.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the air fryer basket.
Step 4: Cook the Meatloaf
Cook the meatloaf for 20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Glaze the Meatloaf (Optional)
If desired, glaze the meatloaf with your favorite sauce or glaze. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze is set.
Step 6: Let the Meatloaf Rest
Remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Meatloaf
- Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a more flavorful meatloaf.
- Don’t overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Make sure the meatloaf is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful loaf.
Variations
The basic air fryer meatloaf recipe can be customized to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
- Add shredded cheese to the meat mixture for a cheesy meatloaf.
- Top the meatloaf with bacon before cooking for a bacon-wrapped meatloaf.
- Add your favorite spices or herbs to the meat mixture for a more flavorful loaf.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork?
A: Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef and pork. However, the meatloaf will be less flavorful.
Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
A: The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check the temperature using a meat thermometer.
Q: Can I cook the meatloaf in a regular oven?
A: Yes, you can cook the meatloaf in a regular oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cook the meatloaf for 45-60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Q: What should I serve with air fryer meatloaf?
A: Air fryer meatloaf can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
Q: Can I make meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make meatloaf ahead of time. Simply cook the meatloaf according to the instructions and then let it cool completely. Wrap the meatloaf in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the meatloaf in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.
