1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, egg, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
2. Shape the Meatloaf:
- Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape, about 7-8 inches long and 3-4 inches wide. Make sure the loaf is compact and holds together well.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly.
4. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. This mixture will be used to glaze the meatloaf and add a delicious, sweet-savory flavor.
5. Cook the Meatloaf:
- Place the meatloaf in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to adjust the shape of the loaf slightly to fit.
- Cook the meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
6. Add the Glaze:
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and spread the ketchup glaze evenly over the top and sides of the loaf.
- Return the meatloaf to the air fryer and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). The glaze should be caramelized and the meatloaf should have a slightly crispy exterior.
7. Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender.
- Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Meatloaf
- Meat Mixture: Combining ground beef with ground pork adds flavor and moisture to the meatloaf. You can also use a mix of ground beef and ground turkey if you prefer a leaner option.
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, be gentle to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the loaf dense and tough.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Customize the Glaze: If you prefer a spicier glaze, add a bit of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ketchup mixture.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Meatloaf
- Quick Cooking: The air fryer reduces the cooking time compared to a traditional oven, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Crispy Exterior: The air fryer creates a deliciously crispy crust on the outside of the meatloaf while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking meatloaf in the air fryer minimizes the mess, as any grease or drippings are contained within the air fryer basket.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Sides: Serve your meatloaf with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a traditional comfort food meal.
- Sandwiches: Leftover meatloaf makes fantastic sandwiches. Place a slice of meatloaf on crusty bread with a dollop of ketchup or mustard for a tasty lunch.
- With Gravy: For an extra indulgent meal, top slices of meatloaf with homemade gravy.
This Air Fryer Meatloaf is a game-changer for those who love comfort food but want a quicker, easier way to prepare it. With its flavorful, juicy interior and crispy exterior, this dish will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this air fryer recipe, and savor every bite of this classic dish!