Meatloaf is one of those comforting meals that just makes you feel good. It’s hearty, delicious, and surprisingly versatile. Today, I’m sharing two fantastic meatloaf recipes that I think you’ll really love, perfect for any night of the week.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or craving that classic baked flavor, I’ve got you covered. These recipes show how easy it is to make a flavorful meatloaf right in your kitchen.
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Quick Air Fryer Meatloaf Recipe
This air fryer meatloaf is a quick way to get a comforting dinner on the table. It cooks fast and stays juicy, perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Air Fryer Meatloaf
- Lean Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef helps keep the meatloaf moist without adding too much fat, which is great for air frying.
- Breadcrumbs for Texture: Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter texture, but regular dry breadcrumbs work well too for binding all the ingredients.
- Grease Your Basket: Make sure to spray your air fryer basket well with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your meatloaf.
What You Need for Air Fryer Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ketchup or BBQ sauce for topping (optional)
⏱️ Time: 30 min🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Air Fryer Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your meatloaf tough.
Step 2: Shape and Air Fry
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that fits well in your air fryer basket. Place it carefully in the prepared basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through. If you like, you can add a glaze of ketchup or BBQ sauce during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
📝 Final Note
Always let your air fryer meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes after cooking before you slice it. This helps it hold its shape and keeps all those delicious juices inside.
Hearty BBQ Glazed Meatloaf Recipe
This BBQ glazed meatloaf is a family favorite for a reason. The tangy and sweet sauce bakes right into the meatloaf, making every bite incredibly delicious.
Key Ingredients & Tips for BBQ Meatloaf
- Your Favorite BBQ Sauce: Use a BBQ sauce you love for the glaze. A smoky or sweet variety works best to complement the beef.
- Mix Gently: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, use your hands and mix gently. Too much mixing can result in a dense, less tender meatloaf.
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
What You Need for BBQ Glazed Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (for glaze)
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 min🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make BBQ Glazed Meatloaf
Step 1: Combine Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, bell pepper, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the mixture.
Step 2: Bake and Glaze the Meatloaf
Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. After this time, spread half of the BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
📝 Final Note
For extra flavor, you can caramelize some onions and add them to your meatloaf mixture before baking. This adds a delicious sweetness and depth to your dish.