Air Fryer Meatloaf
Air Fryer Meatloaf is a tasty dinner that is made even easier using the Air Fryer. Ready in just 35 minutes, this is a tender, moist meatloaf that is perfect for a busy weeknight!
QUICK, EASY, TASTY MEATLOAF
There is nothing worse than a dry and tasteless meatloaf, right? I worked on this particular meatloaf recipe for several years to get it just right. I first shared the oven version for it about 12 or 13 years ago here on the site and it’s been one of my most popular recipes since. But a lot of folks don’t want to turn on their oven in the summer so the air fryer is a great option. So I modified my original meatloaf recipe to work specifically in an air fryer. You might think it wouldn’t come out moist at all but I promise you, this recipe is a winner!
I made this today and it was deeelicious! My husband had two servings and was mmm-mmm’ing while he chewed. (Lol!) It was so quick and easy, too, and didn’t heat up the house. You can bet I’ll be making this again. Thank you for the recipe!
– Deb
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Well then you are in good luck because I have about 3 other ways you can make this meatloaf depending on what appliance you might own: oven, instant pot or crock pot. Just click on the links below to take you to the recipe.
Oven Baked Meatloaf
Instant Pot Meatloaf
Crock Pot Meatloaf
I didn’t want to preheat the Air Fryer basket since we are shaping the meatloaf in the actual air fryer basket. It would be too easy to burn yourself that way if you’ve already preheated it. So no preheating necessary.
I used a large spatula and it was easy to get out. The meatloaf held together nicely while removing it from the basket.
Yes, this is what keeps the grease down and helps the loaf stick together. I used 93%, but you could probably get away with 85%. Just keep in mind that if too much grease escapes, it can drip to the bottom of the Air Fryer and cause smoke.
Of course, you would use about ¼ cup of finely chopped onions in lieu of onion powder. You could even add finely diced green peppers if you enjoy those.
The glaze on this is totally optional. Some people like just ketchup and some folks like just BBQ sauce and some folks don’t like anything. Go with your preference here. It will all work just fine.
I test all of my air fryer recipes with either a 5, 6 or 7 quart basket air fryer. The basket style air fryer is the most popular style of air fryer sold in America so I use the one that most Americans have I their kitchens. There is just no way for me to test a recipe using every type of air fryer there is out there these days. Some are oven style, some have the air fryer fan at the top, some are dual basket, etc. I cannot tell you how to make this in any other air fryer other than the air fryer basket style. You will need to use your own personal knowledge of your air fryer to make any adjustments needed.
Yep. It will seem really wet but don’t fret, that is how it should be. You’ll still be able to shape it in the air fryer basket. That “wetness” is basically why this meatloaf comes out so moist and not dry like many meatloaf recipes.
Typically this happens when grease from the meat hits the bottom of the hot Air Fryer basket. If you are using a lean meat as is called for in the recipe, this shouldn’t happen. But if you do notice it happening, add a couple of tablespoons of water into the bottom of the basket. This will help disperse the grease and stops it from smoking as much.
Storing leftover meatloaf is simple. Put it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to four days. Or place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. When reheating, make sure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure food safety. If you plan on freezing it, be sure to wrap it tightly with foil or freezer paper and if you plan on reheating it, make sure to thaw the meatloaf completely before heating.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED: (SEE RECIPE CARD BELOW FOR THE FULL RECIPE)
- lean ground beef – it needs to be lean meat to cut down on how much grease drips into the hot pan below the basket. You could also use chicken or turkey.
- milk – it may seem like a lot of milk, but trust the process on this one, it works.
- large egg – an egg works as a binder in meatloaf to help hold it all together.
- bread – I know you might be wondering why I don’t use crackers or breadcrumbs like most meatloaf recipes. Well this recipe isn’t like most meatloaf recipes, it tastes better! The bread helps retain moisture (unlike crackers and breadcrumbs which absorb moisture and can make the meatloaf dry.
- onion powder and garlic powder – if you have other seasonings, you prefer, please use what you enjoy – these are just my favorites.
- Worcestershire sauce – I think this adds a really nice background flavor that keeps this meatloaf from tasting too bland.
- dry ground mustard – if you don’t have this then you can leave it out. It does not add a strong mustard flavor at all.
HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER MEATLOAF
In a large bowl combine all the ingredients for the meatloaf. I just use my clean hands for this. Don’t overwork the meat, just mix until combined. Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil nonstick cooking spray. Shape the meat into a loaf shape (at an angle) in the air fryer basket. You don’t want to make the meatloaf too thick or it won’t cook all the way through. Try to make the loaf shape as even as possible from end to end. Air fry at 350F degrees for 15 minutes.
While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the glaze by mixing together the ketchup and BBQ sauce in a small bowl. When the meatloaf has cooked for 15 minutes, brush some of the glaze on the loaf. Note: You won’t use all of the glaze. Save the leftovers for serving. Air fry at 350F degrees for another 10 minutes. Meatloaf is done when an internal temperature reaches 160F degrees.
Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 5 minutes. Then slice and serve with leftover glaze.
CRAVING MORE RECIPES?
- Air Fryer Ribs
- Air Fryer Steaks
- Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Air Fryer Lemon Herb Potatoes
- Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes
- Air Fryer Roast Beef Sandwiches
- Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Air Fryer Turkey Breast
- Meatloaf Patty Melts
- Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf
- Italian Meatloaf
- Chicken Meatloaf
- Air Fryer Meatballs
- Crock Pot French Onion Meatloaf
- Crock Pot Mississippi Meatloaf
- Crock Pot Meatloaf Meatballs
- Crock Pot Salisbury Steak
- Stovetop Mashed Potatoes
Air Fryer Meatloaf
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 slices bread, torn up into really small pieces
- ½ Tablespoon onion powder
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dry ground mustard
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a large bowl combine 1 pound lean ground beef, ¾ cup milk, 1 large egg, 3 slices bread, torn up into really small pieces, ½ Tablespoon onion powder, 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon dry ground mustard, ¼ teaspoon black pepper AND ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder. I just use my clean hands for this. Don’t overwork the meat, just mix until combined.
- Spray a 5-7 quart air fryer basket with olive oil nonstick cooking spray. Shape the meat into a loaf shape (at an angle) in the air fryer basket. You don’t want to make the meatloaf too thick or it won’t cook all the way through. Try to make the loaf shape as even as possible from end to end.
- Air fry at 350F degrees for 15 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the glaze by mixing together ⅓ cup ketchup AND ⅓ cup BBQ sauce in a small bowl.
- When the meatloaf has cooked for 15 minutes, brush some of the glaze on the loaf. Note: You won’t use all of the glaze. Save any leftovers for serving.
- Air fry at 350F degrees for another 10 minutes. Meatloaf is done when an internal temperature reaches 160F degrees.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 5 minutes. Then slice and serve with leftover glaze.
Video
Notes
- Please refer to my FAQ’s and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- The only way to know when meat is truly cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Because some air fryers cook differently, it is best to always check the temperature to know when it is fully cooked (don’t just go by time). It should read 160F degree when ready.
- You do not need to preheat the air fryer.
- I prefer olive oil nonstick spray because it won’t gunk up the air fryer basket over time.
- This meat held together really well. I was able to scoop it out with a large spatula and it held together well.
- A lean meat is important here to reduce the amount of grease. I used 93% but I think you could even get away with 85%.
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
This turned out great for me! Amazing flavor and I was so impressed by your instructions and step by photos. It made it so easy to follow (but everyone knows how to properly write or explain a recipe!)
I made this today and it was deeelicious! My husband had two servings and was mmm-mmm’ing while he chewed. (Lol!) It was so quick and easy, too, and didn’t heat up the house. You can bet I’ll be making this again. Thank you for the recipe!
Ha! I love hearing that Deb!! Thanks so very much for coming back to comment – it really means so much!
it came out perfect first time I suggest mixing ketchup with Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce
im not a fan of ketchup or bbq sauce. would it be ok if i just used a brown gravy on the top of the meatloaf? after reading all these positive comments, i really want to try this
Og my gosh – this was flipping amazing!! I was worried it wouldn’t set up because of how wet it seemed but man, it turned out so good!! Meatloaf in the air fry can come out SO dry. This was not at all and we all absolutely loved it! My husband couldn’t stop raving and he is incredibly picky when it comes to meatloaf so that is high praise. Thank you so much for sharing this recipe with us and your great photos and instructions!!
Just got an air fryer so learning all the tips and tricks; didn’t read the recipe all the way through so made a slight mistake on the glaze; had to
adjust timing to achieve temperature—dispute those “challenges” the meatloaf was delicious!! It will be a keeper in our dinner rotation! Thank you for making dinner so much easier.
It was easy and delicious!!
Just made this and it is probably one of the best meatloaves I have ever made, and I have made a lot. The hardest part of the recipe was tearing the bread into tiny pieces. It was done perfectly, almost too juicy and I can’t wait to make a sandwich out of it tomorrow. Paired with chipotle sweet potato and a nice pinot from my favorite Sonoma winery and it was a great meal. Thank you for this
What a fantastic comment Walt! I really appreciate you taking the time to come back and let me know how it turned out for you!
thanks for this recipe. I’ve been looking for easy air fryer recipe. this will work
I used 85% lean ground and this meatloaf was superb! I had more than a pound of meat and it took an extra 12 minutes. I covered it with foil. This is my new meatloaf recipe!
I’m rating this recipe again because I think I sent in my message before I clicked on the stars!
This was a great recipe and I really enjoyed it. I added chopped bell peppers. Thank you!
Delish. It was just what I needed because my oven broke. I used the air fryer version. It was really good. I added a little bit of chopped bell pepper.
Loved it great tasting meatloaf, easy to make
Meatloaf is my husband’s favorite meal…Me…Mehhh
Well, this meatloaf changed my mind and will now be a favorite in our Family Recipe Box!!
Thanks so much for tweaking this recipe
Just curious. What the difference between bake setting and air fryer setting. Should I use the bake setting?
I don’t know, mine doesn’t have a bake setting as it is an air fryer only. I would assume air fry since this is an air fryer recipe so I am not sure why you would use a bake option. I am guessing you don’t have a traditional basket air fryer and yours has more features. I am not familiar with all the kinds that are out there now since there are so many that do so many different things these days but I use a traditional basket air fryer only.
The bake setting just has a preset for a lower temperature and longer time all the settings kind of do the same thing as in air and heat flow wise they are just options for temp and time
I doubled the batch and made two loaves. I added 3 minutes per loaf just to get it a little more crisp and oh my gosh, this recipe is my families new favorite! So much flavor! We paired it with mashed potatoes and mixed veggies for sides. I also added 1 onion diced to the meat mixture. Fantastic recipe!
Thank you so much for trying it and coming back to comment! Meatloaf is my favorite meal so I am super picky about it! It makes me so happy to hear you enjoyed it!!
I have to say I had my doubts, but my husband and I found this recipe was delicious. I made it with following substitutions : ground turkey breast, 1/4 cfresh onion, yellow mustard ,skim milk. It is wet, but firms to a beautiful, moist light texture .
Excellent recipe. My wife and I loved it.
Used real onions instead of powder and coconut milk in place of milk. Cooked in an Instant Vortex air fryer came out great using time and temp indicated in recipe.
Great meatloaf. We all really enjoyed this and my wife said I definitely need to make again
So good & so moist!!!
Updating from my comment below – I made this with two packages of Impossible Beef, and it turned out excellent! Since the packages are 12 oz instead of a pound, I decided to go bigger vs smaller so I did have to scale up the ingredients and cooking time (I temped it at 25 minutes and it wasn’t quite there so gave it another 10 and it was good). Devoured by both vegetarian husband and non-vegetarian 21 year old kid! I may never put a meatloaf in the oven again, thank you for sharing the recipe!
sounds delicious, I’m in Australia, so I have to go by Australian temperatures, I’m going to look it up. thanks for the recipe. Susan
Full disclosure, I haven’t made it yet, but it’s 98 degrees here in Iowa right now and I have some ingredients I was saving for meatloaf that are about to go bad, so in desperation I searched “air fryer meatloaf” on Google because ain’t no way I’m turning on that oven What struck me with your recipe is that it’s *nearly identical* to the recipe I learned from my mom and grandma that I’ve been making since the beginning of time. We always saved the bread ends from our loaves and then soaked them to put in meatloaf. It’s weird, but I love coming across those bits of unmixed bread! Years later, my husband is a vegetarian, so I’ll be trying this with Impossible Beef…it translates surprisingly wonderfully in the oven, so I will report back as to how it does in the air fryer!
So good!!! Best Meat Loaf I have ever made! Thank you for making it for the air fryer!!!
You are so sweet – thanks so much Kris!
tasty and moist!
Thanks so very much Glenda!
Very easy to make and tasted delicious will definitely make again
This was delicious. As you suggested, I adjusted the seasonings to our taste. I increased the pepper and garlic and also added about 1/8 cup of bacon bits (probably will add more next time). The only issue I had was after the 25 minutes it was only 120 degrees. I cooked it for another 15 minutes and it was at 160. I used a Cosori Air Fryer.
Five stars and yummy. This is the ONLY way we eat it now. Thank you!
Oh wow! Thanks so very much Julie!!
This was easy and very good. I am used to doing meatloaf with veggies (onion/pepper) in it, but this quick, easy and good. I’ll make it again!
I have a 4 in 1 Microwave/Air Fryer combo, will this recipe work with that since I do not have drop in basket? I have a round basket that is elevated inside the unit.
I’m sorry, I’m not familiar with that type. Maybe someone else on here has one similar and can help 🙂
Who would’ve thought meatloaf in the air fryer?! Not me but I took a chance and I’m glad I did!! Whoa this is so good – thank you for the recipe and all the photos. I wish more websites did that but I know it’s a ton of work so thank you!
Holy macaroni – this was delicious. My husband and I just finished eating your (now my) meatloaf. Ages ago I made meatloaf with ripped up soft bread and cream of mushroom soup. I’m lactose intolerant now, and have tried so many recipes, but the trend has been bread crumbs, and the meatloaf was always okay, but nothing to rave about. I was intrigued by how yours was different. My husband said he liked how it was a little crusty on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside. )I liked how I didn’t have to chop up vegetables. Perfect lazy recipe.)
The catsup and BBQ sauce was a perfect combo. I used Bear’s BBQ (CT company but I bought it on Etsy). Milk was fat free Lactaid.
I used a Cosori Dual Blaze, which has heating elements on the top and bottom, and the basket is solid – no holes. A crisper tray with holes is inserted if wanted. I used it for better air circulation, and put a little piece of perforated parchment paper just in the center since the crisper has a couple large finger holes. Thanks so much for a perfect recipe. (No affiliation!)
This looks AMAZING!!! I can’t wait to make it.
Anxious to try this in the air fryer!
Hope you love it Lisa!