How Long to Cook Turkey Meatloaf in an Air Fryer

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf comes out flavorful and moist, with a delicious topping to go over it. This is a turkey meatloaf recipe that will please the whole family. Air fried turkey meatloaf is done in under an hour!

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years as a quick and easy way to cook delicious foods. One dish that is perfect for the air fryer is turkey meatloaf. But how long should you cook turkey meatloaf in an air fryer for the best results? In this article, we’ll provide tips on cooking times and temperatures, as well as recipe ideas to make flavorful turkey meatloaf in your air fryer.

Why Cook Turkey Meatloaf in an Air Fryer?

There are several benefits to using an air fryer for meatloaf rather than baking it in the oven

Quicker cooking time – Air fryers use rapid air circulation technology to cook foods fast. Turkey meatloaf can be done in an air fryer in 30 minutes or less.
Crispy exterior – The constant flow of hot air creates a crispy browned exterior on the meatloaf
Juicy interior – Despite the quick cooking time, the inside of the meatloaf stays moist and tender.
Smaller portions – Air fryer baskets are smaller than ovens, so you can divide the meatloaf mixture into individual portions. This allows for customized cook times.
Convenient – Air fryers are simple to use with minimal preparation needed. It’s easy to toss meatloaf in for a quick weeknight meal.

Recommended Cook Times and Temps

The cooking time can vary based on the size and shape of your meatloaf, as well as how powerful your particular model of air fryer is. Here are some general guidelines for air frying turkey meatloaf:

Mini loaves (3-4 oz each): Cook at 350°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Medium loaf (1 lb): Cook at 350°F for 25-28 minutes, flipping halfway.
Large loaf (1.5-2 lbs): Cook at 325°F for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway.
Meatloaf mixture: For meatloaf mixture without a defined shape, cook 4-6 oz portions at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

For food safety, always ensure the minimum internal temperature reaches 165°F as measured by a food thermometer. If the exterior is browning too quickly, tent the meatloaf loosely with foil.

Flavorful Turkey Meatloaf Recipes for the Air Fryer

One of the great things about meatloaf is how versatile it is when it comes to flavors. Here are some tasty turkey meatloaf recipes to try in your air fryer:

Italian Turkey Meatloaf – Use Italian breadcrumbs, diced bell pepper, fresh basil, oregano, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese in the meat mixture.
Southwestern Turkey Meatloaf – Add diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, shredded pepper jack cheese, and top with salsa or enchilada sauce.
Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Meatloaf – Wrap thinly sliced bacon around the shaped meatloaf before air frying for added flavor, moisture, and crunch.
Spinach Feta Turkey Meatloaf – Mix in chopped spinach, crumbled feta, and lemon zest to the meat mixture.
Hawaiian Turkey Meatloaf – Use a pineapple glaze on the meatloaf and mix in chopped ham.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings, mix-ins, glazes, and toppings. The air fryer handles bold flavors beautifully.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf Tips

Follow these tips for the perfect air fried turkey meatloaf:

Use 85-90% lean ground turkey for the best consistency.
Let the meatloaf rest 5 minutes before slicing for juicier results.
Mix the ingredients gently but thoroughly to bind without overworking the meat.
Brush with glaze during the last 5 minutes of cook time to caramelize.
Add a slice of bacon on top for extra flavor and moisture.
Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easier removal.
For smaller portions, divide into mini loaves or meatballs and adjust cook times.

Is Turkey Meatloaf Healthy?

Turkey meatloaf can be a nutritious choice as part of a healthy diet. Turkey provides lean protein along with iron, selenium, zinc, phosphorus, and B vitamins. Adding veggies like spinach, peppers, or zucchini boosts the fiber and nutrient content. Just be mindful of any high-sodium seasonings or sauces. Made with simple whole food ingredients and your favorite herbs and spices, turkey meatloaf is a well-rounded meal.

Cooking turkey meatloaf in an air fryer results in a quick and easy weeknight dinner with a tender and juicy interior and crispy crust. Cook mini meatloaves at 350°F for 15-18 minutes, medium loaves for 25-28 minutes, and large loaves for 30-35 minutes. Allow the meatloaf to rest before serving, and get creative with flavors and toppings. Turkey meatloaf is a nutritious dinner option that takes advantage of the speed and convenience of air fryer cooking.

how long to cook turkey meatloaf in an air fryer

What can I use in place of the bread crumbs?

You can use quick cooking oats. Also, if you dont want to use milk, try adding a little water.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

Meatloaf is Americas comfort food! Most other countries have their version of meatloaf as well. There is no limit to all of the delicious ways to prepare a tasty meatloaf!

Turkey meatloaf is such a great option to beef. Ground turkey is pretty much found everywhere nowadays.

You can also find it in different fat percentages. The typical ones I find are 99% lean (white meat), 93% lean, and 85% lean.

I suggest using the 85% lean if you can find it. Otherwise the 93% lean is a good option.

Air Fryer Meatloaf

FAQ

How do you know when turkey meatloaf is done?

Toward the end of the cooking time (our standard two-pound meatloaf takes about one hour), follow this simple method to know when it’s done. Use an instant-read thermometer ($18, Walmart). The meat loaf’s internal temperature should register 160°F when the thermometer is inserted into the center.

What temperature and how long to cook meatloaf?

A standard meatloaf cooking temp is 350°F. At 350°F, 35 to 45 minutes per pound of meatloaf is a fairly accurate rule to follow. The best way to not overcook or undercook your meatloaf is to use a meat thermometer to check the meatloaf internal temperature. The ideal meatloaf internal temp is 160°F.

How to reheat turkey meatloaf in an air fryer?

How long do you reheat meatloaf in the air fryer? Air fry meatloaf for 4 to 5 minutes at 350°F until warm. You can also microwave it for about 1 minute. Double the meatloaf recipe if you want extra for leftovers or freezing.

How long does it take to cook a 5 lb meatloaf at 350 degrees?

In a conventional oven, you’ll want to cook meatloaf for 35 to 45 minutes per pound at a temperature of 350°F, while checking the temperature toward the end of that time. In a convection oven, you’ll want to cook meatloaf for 26 to 42 minutes per pound at a temperature of 325°F instead of 350°F.