Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love? Say hello to Air Fryer Mini Meatloaf! This mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite is not only easy to make but also cooks in a fraction of the time, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. With just a handful of ingredients and a prep time of only 10 minutes, you can whip up these savory mini meatloaves that are perfectly juicy on the inside and delightfully crispy on the outside. Ready to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight staple!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a fork until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions, shaping each into a compact mini loaf about 1-inch thick. Ensure the loaves are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the meatloaves will cook evenly and develop a nice exterior.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Alternatively, use parchment paper cut to fit the basket.
- Place the mini meatloaves in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each loaf for proper air circulation. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Optional: Brush additional ketchup on top of the meatloaves during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking for a glazed finish.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the meatloaves from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Mix Thoroughly: When combining the ingredients, ensure everything is well mixed. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures even cooking.
- Uniform Size Matters: Shape your mini meatloaves into uniform sizes, about 1-inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and reduces the risk of some being undercooked while others are overdone.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Don’t Skip the Spray: Lightly spraying the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or using parchment paper will help prevent the meatloaves from sticking, making for an easier cleanup.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaves. They should reach 160°F (71°C) to be safely cooked through.
- Add a Glaze: For an extra burst of flavor, brush some additional ketchup on top of the meatloaves during the last few minutes of cooking. It gives them a beautiful glaze that enhances both appearance and taste.
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, allow the meatloaves to rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful bite.
- Pair with Sides: Serve your mini meatloaves with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
