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Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

This Air Fryer Meatloaf recipe offers a quick and delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Prepared with lean ground beef, fresh carrots, and a flavorful ketchup glaze, this meatloaf is cooked to perfection in an air fryer, yielding a moist, tender inside with a slightly crisp exterior. Ideal for a family dinner, it’s both easy to make and packed with hearty, home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients

Glaze

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (divided)

Meatloaf

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¾ cup peeled and shredded carrot (about 1 large)
  • ¼ cup dried minced onion
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Set this aside for later use.
  2. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, plain breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, shredded carrot, dried minced onion, minced garlic, the remaining 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add Glaze to Meat Mixture: Pour in half of the ketchup glaze (approximately ½ cup) into the meat mixture and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  4. Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Shape and Cook Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it inside the prepped air fryer basket. Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 30 minutes. If the meatloaf begins to brown excessively during cooking, gently cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
  6. Glaze and Finish Cooking: After the initial cooking period, brush the remaining ketchup glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Continue air frying for an additional 3 minutes, or until an internal thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C), ensuring the meatloaf is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) for healthier results and less grease.
  • If you don't have dried minced onion, you can substitute with 2 tablespoons of fresh finely chopped onion.
  • Shredded carrot adds moisture and sweetness; you can substitute with finely grated zucchini if desired.
  • If your air fryer is smaller, check the meatloaf's size so it fits comfortably with some room for air circulation.
  • Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after cooking before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.