Welcome to TastyKitchen, where we bring you innovative and delicious recipes to elevate your home cooking! Today, we’re diving into a mouthwatering dish that combines the classic comfort of meatloaf with the savory goodness of ham, all prepared in an air fryer. This Air Fryer Meatloaf and Ham recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, offering a juicy, flavorful result with minimal cleanup. Let’s explore why this dish is a game-changer and how you can make it at home.
Why Choose an Air Fryer for Meatloaf and Ham?
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, and for good reason. They cook food faster than traditional ovens, use less oil, and deliver a crispy exterior with a tender interior. For our meatloaf and ham combo, the air fryer ensures even cooking, locks in moisture, and gives the meatloaf a delightful crust while keeping the ham succulent. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and packed with flavor.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Meatloaf and Ham
To create this hearty dish, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for optimal juiciness)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (for added flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or fresh work best)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for the glaze)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (for the glaze)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (for the glaze)
For the Ham:
- 1 lb pre-cooked ham steak (about 1/2-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky kick)
Equipment:
- Air fryer (6-quart or larger recommended)
- Mixing bowls
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket (about 8×4 inches). If your air fryer is small, you can make two smaller loaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
- In a separate bowl, mix the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.
- Brush both sides of the ham steak with the maple-mustard mixture, ensuring an even coating.
Step 3: Air Fry the Meatloaf and Ham
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 3 minutes.
- Line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the meatloaf in the center of the basket.
- Cook the meatloaf at 360°F for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, brush the top with half of the ketchup glaze.
- Carefully place the ham steak next to or on top of the meatloaf (depending on your air fryer’s size). If space is tight, cook the ham in a second batch.
- Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, brushing the meatloaf with the remaining glaze halfway through. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F, and the ham should be warmed through with a caramelized glaze.
- Remove both from the air frye and let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve alongside the ham steak. Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. The meatloaf’s savory, tangy glaze complements the sweet and smoky ham, creating a harmony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the glaze: The ketchup-based glaze adds a sweet-tangy finish that elevates the meatloaf.
- Check the fit: Ensure your meatloaf and ham fit in the air fryer basket without overcrowding to promote even cooking.
- Make it your own: Add chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots to the meatloaf for extra texture, or swap the maple syrup for honey on the ham for a different sweetness.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 5-7 minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
This Air Fryer Meatloaf and Ham recipe is a TastyKitchen favorite because it’s quick, versatile, and delivers restaurant-quality results at home. The air fryer cuts cooking time by nearly half compared to a traditional oven, and the combination of meatloaf and ham offers a satisfying, protein-packed meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to impress.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
Author Box
Author: TastyKitchen
At TastyKitchen, we’re passionate about creating recipes that are easy, delicious, and perfect for every home cook. Our mission is to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen with dishes that bring joy to your table.
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Air Fryer Meatloaf, Air Fryer Ham, Easy Dinner Recipes, Comfort Food, Family Meals, Quick Recipes