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Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe

I’ve made meatloaf dozens of times in the oven, but once I discovered the air fryer meatloaf recipe, there was no going back. If you’re anything like me, you probably enjoy a shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground beef – using around 93% lean helps reduce smoking in the air fryer
  • ¾ cup milk – this keeps the meatloaf moist and tender so don’t substitute with water
  • 1 large egg – acts as a binder to hold everything together
  • 3 slices bread torn into small pieces – real bread retains moisture better than breadcrumbs
  • ½ tablespoon onion powder – convenient and consistent flavor without needing fresh onions
  • ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder – gives even garlic flavor without the risk of burning fresh garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds a savory depth much better than simple salt
  • ½ teaspoon salt – brings out all the flavors
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground gives more aromatic zing
  • ½ teaspoon dry ground mustard – enhances flavor complexity without overt mustard taste
  • ⅓ cup ketchup – classic tang and sweetness
  • ⅓ cup BBQ sauce – for caramelization and smoky flavor

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine the lean beef, milk, egg, torn bread pieces, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dry mustard using clean hands. The mixture will be slightly wet—that's exactly as intended to keep it moist. Mixing until just combined prevents a dense texture.
  2. Spray your air fryer basket with olive oil spray to ensure easy release. Shape the mixture into an even loaf right in the basket—aim for consistency in thickness so it cooks evenly. No preheating is needed since you shape directly in the basket.
  3. Cook at 350 °F for 15 minutes. While it cooks, whisk together ketchup and BBQ sauce for the glaze. After the initial cook, brush a thin layer of glaze over the top—don’t worry if you don’t use it all. Return the loaf to the air fryer at 350 °F for 10 more minutes. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 160 °F.
  4. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes in the basket after cooking. That resting time helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing neater. Serve with any leftover glaze brushed on each slice for extra flavor.