For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. If you don't have fresh mozzarella balls, cubed mozzarella works just as well. Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and browning. These mini meatloaves can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying. Add a few minutes to the cooking time if cooking from cold. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Air Fryer Cheese-Stuffed Mini Italian Meatloaves
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PREP TIME15 mins
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COOK TIME30 mins
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TOTAL TIME45 mins
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SERVING4 People
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VIEWS11
Transform your meatloaf game with these adorable, single-serving Italian delights! Each mini meatloaf is a treasure chest of melted mozzarella and savory pepperoni, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Say goodbye to dry, boring meatloaf!
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate13 g
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Cholesterol135 mg
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Fiber1 g
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Protein34 g
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Saturated Fat7 g
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Sodium411 mg
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Sugar4 g
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Fat17 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
2 mins
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, pesto, egg, garlic, and pepper. (2 minutes)
02
Step
3 mins
Add the ground beef and panko bread crumbs to the wet ingredients. Gently combine with your hands, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough meatloaves. (3 minutes)
03
Step
1 mins
Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions. (1 minute)
04
Step
2 mins
With each portion, create a well in the center, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edge. (2 minutes)
05
Step
2 mins
Place 2 slices of pepperoni into each well, overlapping them to cover the length of the well. (2 minutes)
06
Step
1 mins
Top the pepperoni with 1/4 of the mozzarella balls (or cubed mozzarella). (1 minute)
07
Step
5 mins
Carefully press the meat mixture around the filling to completely enclose it, forming each portion into an oblong loaf shape. Ensure the filling is well-sealed to prevent leakage during cooking. (5 minutes)
08
Step
1 mins
Place the mini meatloaves into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches. (1 minute)
09
Step
15 mins
Cook in the air fryer at 370 degrees F (190 degrees C) until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meatloaf registers 165 degrees F (75 degrees C), approximately 15 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer. (15 minutes)
10
Step
2 mins
Serve the mini meatloaves immediately, topped with warm marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil. (2 minutes)
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Please Rate
Jeffrey Abernathy
Jun 29, 2025Easy to follow recipe and the meatloaves came out perfectly juicy!
Dillon Ankunding
Jun 29, 2025I was skeptical about air frying meatloaf, but this recipe changed my mind. So quick and easy!
Leone Koss
Jun 28, 2025Delicious! I added some sun-dried tomatoes to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
Garret Hammes
Jun 28, 2025These were a huge hit with my family! The kids loved the cheesy filling.
Aurore Wolff
Jun 23, 2025The cooking time was perfect in my air fryer. I'll definitely be making these again.