Meatloaf is a true comfort food, perfect for a satisfying dinner any night of the week. I love how versatile it is and how it brings that warm, home-cooked feeling to the table.
Today, I’m excited to share two excellent meatloaf recipes that you can easily make. Whether you need a quick meal or a dish with a fantastic glaze, I have something for you here.
Jump to Recipe:
Air Fryer Meatloaf: Quick Dinner Idea
This meatloaf recipe is perfect for when you need a delicious meal on the table fast. Using your air fryer helps the meatloaf cook quickly and keeps it wonderfully juicy, which is great for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Lean Ground Meat: Using ground beef that is 85/15 or 90/10 helps keep the meatloaf from being too greasy when cooked in the air fryer.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine your ingredients to make sure your meatloaf stays tender and doesn’t become tough.
- Shape It Well: Form the mixture into a compact loaf that fits neatly into your air fryer basket for even cooking.
What You Need
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tbsp ketchup, plus more for topping
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 35 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, 2 tbsp ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is just combined.
Step 2: Shape and Cook
Form the mixture into a compact loaf shape. Carefully place it into your air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Step 3: Glaze and Finish
During the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, spread more ketchup or your preferred glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
📝 Final Note
Always let your meatloaf rest for a few minutes after cooking before you slice it. This helps it stay juicy and firm.
BBQ Glazed Meatloaf: A Family Favorite
If you enjoy the rich, sweet taste of barbecue, then this meatloaf is for you. A sticky, tangy BBQ glaze makes this classic dish extra special and brings lots of goodness to your table.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Your Favorite BBQ Sauce: Choose a BBQ sauce you really like, as it’s the main flavor in the glaze. Sweet, smoky, or a little spicy all work great.
- Add Veggies: Finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots can add extra moisture and good nutrients to your meatloaf mixture.
- Even Baking: Using a loaf pan helps your meatloaf hold its shape and cook evenly in the oven.
What You Need
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 works well)
- 1 cup soft breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Glaze: 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mix
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, bell pepper (if using), thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until it’s just combined.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
Press the meatloaf mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes.
Step 3: Glaze and Finish Baking
While the meatloaf bakes, mix the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to make the glaze. After 45-50 minutes, spread the glaze generously over the meatloaf. 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
Letting your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking makes it much easier to slice and ensures the juices stay inside.
