The Easiest Way to Make Tender, Juicy Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food made by combining ground meat (usually beef or turkey) with breadcrumbs, eggs and seasonings, then shaping it into a loaf and baking it. Often topped with a tangy glaze of ketchup or barbecue sauce, meatloaf is hearty, flavorful and versatile. It's also a standout choice for weeknight dinners because of its simplicity.

We also love that meatloaf is easy to make ahead of time. You can mix the ingredients in the morning or even freeze a batch for busy nights. Once in the oven, it’s mostly hands-off, giving you time to tackle homework, errands and household chores.

Meatloaf is also a budget-friendly option, stretching inexpensive ground meat with pantry staples, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with various sides, like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies or a simple salad.

The downside of meatloaf is that it can dry out easily, or it can be too mushy, which is why I don't make it that often. But this recipe from content creator @themodernnonna has me rethinking my personal stance on meatloaf. This quick and easy recipe promises tender, juicy meatloaf in 30 minutes, which immediately got my attention.

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Why You Should Make Meatloaf in the Air Fryer

This meatloaf is made in the air fryer and only takes 30 minutes to cook! That will make things even easier on those busy nights.

To make The Modern Nonna's air fryer meatloaf, start by sauteeing onions, carrots and bell peppers in olive oil until they soften, which should take around 5 minutes. Once they've softened, add some diced pickle (!) and Italian seasoning, salt and pepper and stir well before removing it from the heat.

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, one egg, Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs. Add in the cooled veggies and mix really well. Wrap the meat mixture in plastic wrap to help you shape it into a loaf.

Unwrap the meatloaf, transfer it to your air fryer and top with barbecue sauce. Cook at 350° for 15 minutes. Take it out and brush with more barbecue sauce. Cook for another 15 minutes or until the outside is crispy and golden.

Once it's done, remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. You can top it with chives for a little extra flavor and a hit of color.

This recipe seems so simple and slightly unexpected—I've never heard of adding pickles to meatloaf! I would love to try this with and without pickles, as well as with different toppings. For example, I'd like to add French's Fried Onions to this meatloaf for a little crunch and a deeper onion flavor.

This is so simple and it can be prepped ahead of dinner time so that all you have to do it toss it in the air fryer and let it do the work for you.

Related: The Absolute Best Way to Reheat Pizza in the Air Fryer

More Great Air Fryer Recipes

Looking for more great meals to make in your air fryer? We have some thoughts.

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• 23 Must-Try Air Fryer Recipes To Kick Off the New Year On a Healthy Note
• 35 Ultra-Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Recipes 
• The Best-Every Air Fryer Pork Chops
• The Air Fryer Salmon You Can Make in 30 Minutes Flat

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