Air-Fried Home-Style Meatloaf

Introduction:

This air-fried homestyle meatloaf is a perfect combination of classic comfort food with a modern twist. Cooking meatloaf in an air fryer ensures a juicy, flavorful interior with a beautifully browned exterior. It’s an easy and efficient way to enjoy this family favorite, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best results)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce for topping

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 320
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 580mg

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, beaten eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 2: Shaping the Meatloaf

Once the mixture is fully combined, transfer it to a clean surface. Shape the mixture into a loaf, approximately 10 inches long and 5 inches wide, as shown in the image. Ensure the loaf is compact and uniform in thickness, so it cooks evenly in the air fryer.

Step 3: Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating is essential for achieving a crispy exterior while ensuring the meatloaf cooks evenly throughout.

Step 4: Cooking the Meatloaf

Carefully place the shaped meatloaf into the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to slightly adjust the shape to fit. Cook the meatloaf at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Adding the Topping

After 30 minutes, carefully remove the basket and brush the top of the meatloaf with additional ketchup or BBQ sauce. This step adds a tangy, sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer. Return the meatloaf to the air fryer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 6: Resting the Meatloaf

Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful when sliced.

Step 7: Slicing and Serving

After resting, slice the meatloaf into thick slices using a sharp knife. Serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success:

  1. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
  2. Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the meatloaf ingredients too much can result in a tough texture. Combine until just mixed for the best results.
  3. Customize Your Topping: While ketchup is traditional, you can experiment with BBQ sauce, a tomato-basil mixture, or even a spicy sriracha glaze for different flavors.

Variations:

  • Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Add a little olive oil or additional milk to keep the meatloaf moist.
  • Vegetable-Packed Meatloaf: Incorporate finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added nutrition and moisture.
  • Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Create a pocket in the center of the loaf and fill it with shredded cheese for a gooey surprise inside.

Storage and Reheating:

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm in the air fryer at 300°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain its crispy exterior.

Conclusion:

This air-fried homestyle meatloaf offers a modern take on a classic dish. With its juicy interior, flavorful glaze, and crispy edges, it’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a Sunday dinner, this meatloaf is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their cooking with the convenience of an air fryer.

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