What’s the Difference Between Meatloaf in the Air Fryer and in the Oven?
The key difference between making meatloaf in the air fryer versus the oven is the time it takes. An oven-baked meatloaf takes 45-90 minutes depending on the size of the loaf. Whereas an air-fried meatloaf takes between 25 and 50 minutes, about half the time.
Air fryer meatloaves tend to get a browned, “crispier” top than those cooked in the oven, because the air circulates evenly around the meatloaf. Using a glaze is important, as it reduces this.
Air fryers are also smaller than ovens so you generally need to make a small loaf, either 1 or 1.5 pounds. This is ideal for smaller families, couples, and those who don’t want leftovers.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ ranch seasoning packet
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- ½ cup barbecue sauce, divided
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, divided
- INSTRUCTIONS
- Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, ranch seasoning, salt, pepper, ½ cup cheddar cheese and ¼ cup barbecue sauce.
- Spray or brush the air fryer basket with olive oil. Put the meatloaf mixture into the basket and shape into a loaf. Set the temperature to 370° and the timer to 20 minutes.
- At the end of the 20 minutes, brush with the remaining barbecue sauce and top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Set the timer for 5 more minutes. The cheese should be melted and beginning to brown and the internal temperature should be 165 degrees F when done. If needed, cook longer in 2-minute increments until temperature has been reached. *A 2 lb meatloaf will need to cook for 40-45 minutes.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before removing.
