I’ve always loved the comforting, hearty taste of meatloaf, but the idea of a long bake in the oven sometimes makes me hesitate. That’s why when I discovered how well mini meatloaves cook in the air fryer, I was hooked. These little loaves are perfectly portioned, cook quickly, and have a tender, juicy texture that rivals traditional oven-baked meatloaf. Plus, the air fryer gives them a slightly crisp exterior that adds a whole new layer of flavor.
Cooking in an air fryer has transformed the way I approach weeknight dinners. With mini meatloaves, I can have a wholesome, satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The ease of cleanup, combined with the ability to customize each mini loaf with different seasonings or toppings, makes this recipe a new staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, these mini meatloaves are a game-changer.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for these mini meatloaves. It provides rich flavor while keeping the meatloaf tender and juicy. The fat content helps the loaves stay moist in the air fryer, while still giving a satisfying meaty texture.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are the key to keeping your mini meatloaf light and structured. They absorb moisture from the beef and any added liquids, ensuring the meatloaf holds together without becoming dense. For extra flavor, you can use seasoned or panko breadcrumbs.
Egg: Eggs act as a binder in the meatloaf, helping all the ingredients stick together. They also add a little richness to the texture, making each bite soft and cohesive.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the meatloaf. When cooked inside the meat, it softens and blends with the beef perfectly, enhancing the overall taste.
Garlic: Minced garlic gives the meatloaf a punch of aromatic flavor. Just a small amount elevates the dish without overpowering the beef, providing a warm, comforting essence.
Milk: Milk keeps the meatloaf moist and tender by adding a little extra liquid to the mixture. It helps soften the breadcrumbs and balances the richness of the meat.
Ketchup: A layer of ketchup on top caramelizes in the air fryer, creating a slightly sweet, tangy glaze. You can also mix it into the meat for a consistent flavor throughout.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce add depth and umami to the meatloaf. It gives the beef a slightly savory and rich complexity that pairs perfectly with the ketchup glaze.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential to bring out the natural flavors of the meat and other ingredients. Don’t skip this step—it makes all the difference.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Mini Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the mini meatloaves. This ensures that they start cooking evenly and get a nice, slightly crisp crust.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined, but don’t overwork the meat or it can become dense.
Step 3: Shape the Mini Loaves
Divide the meat mixture into 4-6 equal portions, depending on the size of your air fryer. Shape each portion into a small loaf, about the size of your palm. Place them in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each loaf for air circulation.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of each mini meatloaf. This will caramelize while cooking, adding flavor and a beautiful glaze. You can also sprinkle a pinch of extra seasoning on top if desired.
Step 5: Cook the Mini Meatloaves
Cook the mini meatloaves in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through, you can check and rotate the loaves for even cooking if your air fryer basket requires it.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Remove the meatloaves from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. Serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without drying out the loaves.
- Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the texture light and tender.
- Customize your mini meatloaves by adding chopped bell peppers, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs.
- If you like a slightly smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the meat mixture.
- You can make these mini meatloaves ahead of time and freeze them uncooked for a quick meal later.
- For extra crispiness, brush a little oil on the top before air frying.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well for mini meatloaves. Keep in mind it’s leaner, so you may want to add a little extra milk or an egg to maintain moisture.
How long do mini meatloaves keep in the fridge?
Cooked mini meatloaves can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I reheat them in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Can I make larger meatloaves in the air fryer?
Yes, but cooking time will need to increase. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
What sides go well with air fryer mini meatloaves?
Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, green beans, or a fresh side salad all pair wonderfully with these mini loaves.