Sometimes you just want something comforting for dinner, right? Meatloaf is one of those classic dishes that always feels like home and can be a real weeknight winner.
I’ve got two simple meatloaf ideas for you today, perfect for easy family meals. One is super quick in the air fryer, and the other features a fantastic tangy BBQ glaze that everyone will love.
Jump to Recipe:
Quick Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe
This air fryer meatloaf recipe is a speedy way to get dinner on the table. It cooks up perfectly tender with a sweet and tangy topping, all thanks to your air fryer.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Air Fryer Meatloaf
- Gentle Mixing: Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture. Overmixing can make your meatloaf tough, so just combine until everything is mixed.
- Air Fryer Fit: Make sure to shape your meatloaf to fit your air fryer basket without touching the sides. This helps with even cooking and airflow.
- Glaze Timing: Add the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. This prevents it from burning and lets it caramelize nicely.
What You Need for Air Fryer Meatloaf
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
⏱️ Time: 30-35 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Air Fryer Meatloaf
Step 1: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Do not overmix; just get it combined.
Step 2: Shape and Start Air Frying
Shape the mixture into a compact loaf that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket. Place it in the basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Glaze and Finish Cooking
While the meatloaf cooks, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze. After 20 minutes, brush the glaze generously over the meatloaf. Continue air frying for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
📝 Final Note
Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
Delicious BBQ Glazed Meatloaf Recipe
This BBQ glazed meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s simple to prepare and full of wonderful flavor. The homemade BBQ sauce makes it extra special and irresistible.
Key Ingredients & Tips for BBQ Glazed Meatloaf
- Meat Choice: Using ground beef that is 80/20 lean to fat ratio often yields the best flavor and moisture for meatloaf.
- Flavorful Base: Finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots can be added to the meat mixture for extra vegetables and flavor without changing the texture too much.
- Resting Time: Always let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it moister and easier to slice.
What You Need for BBQ Glazed Meatloaf
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the BBQ Glaze:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (15 min prep, 60 min cook)🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make BBQ Glazed Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overworking the meat.
Step 2: Form and Bake the Loaf
Shape the meat mixture into an oval loaf and place it in a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes.
Step 3: Make the BBQ Glaze
While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together all the glaze ingredients (ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika) in a small bowl.
Step 4: Glaze and Finish Baking
After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread half of the BBQ glaze generously over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is bubbly.
📝 Final Note
Serve with mashed potatoes or green beans for a complete meal.
