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Sliced meatloaf on a white plate showing juicy texture.

Air Fryer Meatloaf

Juicy 1-pound air fryer meatloaf with a simple panade, late-added ketchup glaze, and a 160°F doneness target for an easy family dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef, preferably 80/20 or 85/15
  • 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup finely grated or finely chopped onion
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Glaze
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon or yellow mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Instant-read food thermometer
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Combine the breadcrumbs and milk in a large bowl. Let stand for about 2 minutes so the crumbs absorb the milk.
  2. Add the ground beef, egg, onion, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently just until evenly combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into a low, even 1-pound loaf that fits your air fryer basket with space around the sides for airflow.
  4. Air fry at 350°F. Begin checking the center around 25 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Brush the glaze over the top during the final 5 to 10 minutes of cooking.
  6. Continue air frying until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reaches 160°F. Add time in short 2 to 3 minute intervals if needed.
  7. Remove the meatloaf carefully and rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Air fryer models and loaf thickness vary, so use the cooking time as a starting range. Shape the loaf lower and wider rather than tall and narrow for more even cooking. Ground turkey meatloaf requires a 165°F internal temperature.