Description
This Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Using ground turkey and cooked in the air fryer, it results in a moist, flavorful meatloaf with a tangy brown sugar ketchup glaze that sets perfectly in just minutes. A quick preparation and cooking time makes it an ideal weeknight dinner option that’s both delicious and easy to make.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp. finely chopped rosemary
- 1 lb. ground turkey (preferably dark meat)
- 1/3 cup fine bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 1 large egg, beaten to blend
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
For Cooking and Glaze
- Olive oil cooking spray
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 Tbsp. light brown sugar
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat the extra-virgin olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring, until soft and golden, about 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and finely chopped rosemary, cooking while stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: Transfer the cooked onion mixture into a medium bowl and let it cool slightly. Add the ground turkey, fine bread crumbs, chopped fresh parsley, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are well combined. Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions and shape each into a loaf approximately 5 inches by 2 1/2 inches.
- Air Fry the Meatloaf: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray. Place the two turkey loaves in the basket, making sure they are not touching. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the loaves for about 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) for safety and doneness.
- Apply Glaze and Finish Cooking: While the loaves cook, mix the ketchup and light brown sugar in a small bowl to make the glaze. After flipping the meatloaves at the halfway point, spoon the glaze evenly over the top of each loaf. Continue cooking at 350°F for about 2 more minutes, or until the glaze is set and caramelized on top.
Notes
- Use dark meat ground turkey for more moisture and flavor in the meatloaf.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee the turkey is fully cooked.
- Flipping the meatloaf halfway through allows even browning and cooking.
- The glaze adds a sweet and tangy finishing touch that complements the savory meat.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 loaf (approx. 4 oz)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg