Juicy Air Fryer Meatloaf

Ingredients for Air Fryer Meatloaf

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need for this recipe. For the full measurements, scroll down to the recipe card.

• Lean Ground Beef and Ground Pork – I like to use a combination of both pork and beef for a richer flavor and moist texture. You can also make this recipe using ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Diced Sweet Onion – Use a very small dice so you don’t end up with big crispy chunks of onion in your meatloaf. Better yet, puree the onion in a food processor or grate the onion on the side of a box grater.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor with a savory kick; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Egg – Acts as a binder to hold the mixture together.
• Panko Bread Crumbs – Provides texture and helps the meat hold shape; regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers are good substitutes but be sure to reduce the amount by half or your meatloaf will be dense.
• Tomato Paste – Adds richness and a touch of acidity.
• Italian Seasoning – I use my homemade Italian Seasoning. You can also use Meatloaf Seasoning in addition to the italian herbs.
• Worcestershire Sauce – For a boost of umami flavor, Worcestershire sauce can’t be beat. You can substitute with soy sauce or coconut aminos.
• Kosher Salt and Ground Pepper – I like to use freshly ground black pepper, which is more fragrant and flavorful.

Meatloaf Sauce

• Ketchup – A tangy, sweet base for the glaze; it contrasts perfectly with the deeply savory meatloaf.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adding sugar helps get that nice caramelization on top of your meatloaf!
• Balsamic Vinegar – For acidity and richness, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar, if you prefer.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a sharp, tangy kick to give the glaze some depth.

How to Make Air Fryer Meatloaf

Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for full printable instructions.

1. Prepare. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
2. Make the meatloaf mixture. Use your hands (or a utensil if you’re squeamish) to combine the ground beef, pork, onion, garlic, egg, bread crumbs, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Air fry. Divide the mixture into two portions and shape each into small loaves. Place in the air fryer basket and cook for 20 minutes.
4. Make the glaze. Whisk the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard in a small bowl.
5. Glaze and finish cooking. Spoon half the glaze over the meatloaves and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until they reach 160°F.
6. Rest. Let the meatloaves rest for 10 minutes, then serve with the remaining glaze.

Tips for Cooking Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

Cooking meatloaf in an air fryer is quick and easy, but here are some additional pointers to make sure it turns out perfect!

• Line the basket. You can use parchment paper or an air fryer liner to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Don’t overmix. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can result in a dense, tough texture. Similarly, don’t compact the meat or squeeze it too much when you’re shaping it into loaves.
• Go by temperature, not time. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure that the meatloaf is safe to eat and cooked through (without drying out).

Meatloaf Variations

You can use this air fryer method to make your favorite meatloaf recipe or try some of these variations.

• Cheese-stuffed meatloaf. Add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the center of the meat mixture before shaping it into a loaf. The melted cheese is like a little surprise in every slice. (Cheese is the best kind of surprise!)
• BBQ glazed meatloaf. Swap out the traditional ketchup glaze for your favorite barbecue sauce. 
• Italian-style meatloaf. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the loaf and top it with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Meatloaf

• The Best Mashed Potatoes
• Corn Pudding
• The Best Potatoes Au Gratin
• Steamed Broccoli
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes
• The Best Rice Pilaf