Air Fryer Meatloaf
Discover a delightful twist on a classic comfort food with this air fryer meatloaf, featuring a juicy texture and a tangy glaze. This recipe captures the essence of home-cooked meals while drastically reducing cooking time compared to traditional oven methods.
Perfectly portioned into two smaller meatloaves, this dish is ideal for quick weeknight dinners or weekend family gatherings. The use of fresh thyme adds a fragrant touch, elevating the flavor profile of this hearty favorite.
Paired with creamy mashed potatoes, this air fryer meatloaf promises a satisfying and comforting meal. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the rich, savory taste that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Air Fryer Meatloaf: Ingredients
The bread crumbs form the foundation of this meatloaf, providing essential texture and helping to bind the ingredients together.
Whole milk enriches the mixture, ensuring a moist and tender result that elevates the overall flavor.
Ground round serves as the heart of the dish, offering a savory base that absorbs all the delightful seasonings.
Finely chopped yellow onion infuses a subtle sweetness, enhancing the meatloaf with a depth of flavor.
The egg acts as a natural binder, ensuring the meatloaf holds its shape while adding richness to each bite.
Fresh thyme introduces a vibrant herbaceous note, brightening the flavor profile and enhancing the comforting essence of the dish.
Finally, the tangy glaze brings a luscious finish, balancing the savory meatloaf with a hint of sweetness and acidity that completes this comforting meal.
Air Fryer Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Classic Reimagined
This juicy air fryer meatloaf, complemented by a tangy glaze, is a quick and flavorful option for a comforting meal. Here’s how to make the most of this delicious dish with helpful tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients for your meatloaf, be careful not to overmix the meat. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough texture. Mix until just combined for a tender and juicy meatloaf.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the meatloaf mixture. Ingredients like garlic powder, parsley, or Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor profile and make it uniquely yours. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Check the Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your meatloaf is cooked to perfection. The internal temperature should reach at least 155 degrees F (68 degrees C). This ensures that it’s safe to eat while remaining juicy.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Meatloaf
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing for meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect side dish. The smooth texture and buttery flavor complement the hearty meatloaf beautifully. For a twist, consider adding roasted garlic or sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Garlic Green Beans: Brighten up your plate with sautéed garlic green beans. Their crispness adds a delightful contrast to the meatloaf while the garlic provides a savory kick. This dish is quick to prepare and adds a splash of color to your meal.
- Classic Coleslaw: For a refreshing crunch, serve your meatloaf with a side of classic coleslaw. The tangy dressing and crisp vegetables balance the richness of the meatloaf, making for a well-rounded meal. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time!
FAQ
- Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a blend of meats. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the fat content. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for up to three months. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture. - Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just form it into loaves before cooking, and it will save you time on busy weeknights. - What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats. Alternatively, you can use cooked quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
Air Fryer Meatloaf
Ingredients
- Meatloaf:
- 1 pound ground round 85/15
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme with additional 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
Instructions
- Begin by assembling all ingredients. Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and whole milk, allowing them to rest for 5 minutes. Next, incorporate the ground beef, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently to ensure an even distribution without overworking the mixture.
- Shape the beef mixture into two rectangles measuring approximately 3 by 4.5 inches.
- To prepare the glaze, mix the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl and set aside.
- Generously coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Place the meatloaves into the basket, applying additional cooking spray on top. Cook in the preheated air fryer until they achieve a golden-brown color, roughly 20 to 25 minutes. Brush the meatloaves with the prepared glaze after 18 minutes of cooking. The internal temperature should reach at least 155 degrees F (68 degrees C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving. Enjoy your meal!
