Name: Air Fryer Meatloaf
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds lean ground beef (or meatloaf mix); 2 eggs; 1 cup Italian bread crumbs; ½ cup milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon ketchup; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ cup ketchup (for glaze); 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze)

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A quick and flavorful twist on classic meatloaf—juicy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and finished with a tangy glaze.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this method gives a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist. The air fryer seals in all the flavors—from Worcestershire to Dijon mustard—while cutting cook time. And that sticky-sweet glaze on top? It’s comfort food without the fuss.

ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ pounds lean ground beef (or meatloaf mix)
2 eggs
1 cup Italian bread crumbs
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon ketchup
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the sauce:

½ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

directions

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients (eggs through garlic powder). I usually use my hands to ensure everything gets mixed evenly—without overmixing, since that can dry it out.
Shape the mixture into a loaf that fits the air fryer basket. Place it on foil and into the fryer.
Cook for 35 minutes. If it’s browning too quickly, I tent it with foil.
Meanwhile, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire for the glaze.
After 35 minutes, spread the glaze over the loaf and cook an additional 5 minutes, until the glaze sets and internal temp hits 165°F.
Let the meatloaf rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Skip or replace onions with chopped leeks or scallions.
Substitute the ketchup glaze with BBQ sauce or sriracha ketchup.
Swap brown sugar in the glaze with honey or maple syrup.

storage/reheating

Make ahead: Form the loaf, wrap in plastic or foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days.
In the freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to three months.
Reheating:

Air fryer: 350°F for 10–15 minutes until it reaches 165°F inside.
Oven: Wrap in foil and bake at 350°F—refrigerated for 20–30 minutes, frozen for 40–50 minutes.
Microwave: Slice, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30‑second intervals.

FAQs

Why did my meatloaf turn out dry?

If I’ve overmixed or skipped wet ingredients—even eggs, ketchup, mustard, or Worcestershire—it tends to dry out. I mix only until just combined.

What’s the best meat to use?

I stick with an 80/20 ground beef or a meatloaf mix. The fat keeps it flavorful without being greasy.

Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Yes—I let it cool, wrap it tightly, and freeze it for up to three months.

Do I need to cover it while cooking?

If the top browns too quickly, I tent it with foil after 15–20 minutes. Then I add the glaze around the 35-minute mark.

How do I know it's done?

I look for an internal temperature of 165°F. It also melts and sets the glaze nicely.

Conclusion

This air fryer meatloaf brings back classic comfort with less time and effort. I love its crispy crust, juicy center, and that tangy-sweet glaze. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or even meal prep—no oven required.

Air Fryer Meatloaf

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

A quick and flavorful twist on classic meatloaf—juicy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and finished with a tangy glaze, all made in the air fryer.

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients (eggs through garlic powder). Mix until just combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf that fits your air fryer basket. Place it on foil and into the fryer.
Cook for 35 minutes. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
Meanwhile, mix the glaze ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
After 35 minutes, spread the glaze over the loaf and cook an additional 5 minutes, until the glaze sets and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let the meatloaf rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.