Easy Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf Recipe | Healthy & Delicious

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal idea that’s quick to prepare, turkey meatloaf made in the air fryer is a perfect choice. This recipe transforms traditional comfort food into a lighter option without compromising flavor. Using ground turkey as the base ensures a leaner dish while the air fryer’s cooking method creates a crispy outer layer with a tender and moist interior. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this turkey meatloaf recipe will impress your family and friends with its simplicity and rich taste.

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Meatloaf has been a staple in American households for decades, providing a hearty and satisfying meal. However, traditional meatloaf recipes often use ground beef and are baked in the oven, which can be calorie-dense and time-consuming. By using ground turkey and an air fryer, this recipe offers a healthier, faster alternative with fewer calories and fat while maintaining all the savory goodness.

The air fryer is ideal for meatloaf because it allows for even cooking with minimal oil, resulting in a delicious crust on the outside and juicy meat on the inside. With simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, you can whip up this meal in no time.

Recipe Details

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~250

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 420mg

Time Required

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Ingredients

• Meatloaf:
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or whole wheat)
  • 1/4 cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion
  • 1 egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Glaze:
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or honey for a healthier option)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Small bowl for glaze
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
2. Shape the Meatloaf:
   Form the mixture into a loaf shape, approximately 6-8 inches long and 3-4 inches wide. This size ensures even cooking in the air fryer. Place the loaf on a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier handling.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
   In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Set aside.
5. Cook the Meatloaf:
   Carefully place the shaped meatloaf into the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 20 minutes.
6. Add the Glaze:
   After 20 minutes, open the air fryer and brush the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Close the air fryer and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
   Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
8. Slice and Enjoy:
   Cut the meatloaf into even slices and serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the ingredients can make the meatloaf dense. Mix just until combined.
• Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Customize the Flavor: Add additional seasonings like cumin, chili powder, or fresh herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Why Make Meatloaf in an Air Fryer?

The air fryer significantly cuts down cooking time compared to a traditional oven while still delivering excellent results. It also requires little to no oil, making it a healthier cooking method. Plus, the air fryer ensures the meatloaf cooks evenly and achieves a perfectly crisp crust without drying out the interior.

Serving Suggestions

This turkey meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Steamed green beans
• Honey-glazed carrots
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

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Ashley Doyle

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.