Easy Air Fryer Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Diet: Gluten-Free (variation)
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (85% or 90% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 small onion, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow or Dijon mustard
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, minced onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Form the mixture into a compact loaf shape that will fit comfortably inside your air fryer basket. To ensure even cooking, try to keep the thickness consistent throughout the loaf. If your air fryer basket has large holes, you can place a small piece of parchment paper underneath the loaf for easier removal later.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf into the basket and cook for 15 minutes. This initial phase allows the meat to set and the fat to begin rendering, creating a solid base for the glaze.
- While the meatloaf is cooking, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl until smooth. Once the 15-minute timer is up, carefully open the air fryer and brush the glaze generously over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
- Continue air frying at 350°F for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Once finished, let the meatloaf rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist.