Traditional meatloaf is modernized in this easy Italian-inspired recipe--it's served in mini, single-sized loaves, stuffed with mozzarella and pepperoni, and air-fried, not baked!
Preparation Time
15 mins
Cooking Time
30 mins
Total Time
45 mins
Calories
336 Calories
Recipe Instructions
Step 1
Combine milk, pesto, egg, garlic, and pepper in a medium bowl. Add ground beef and bread crumbs and combine, being careful not to overmix.
Step 2
Divide meat mixture into 4 portions. Press a well into each portion, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edge. Place 2 slices pepperoni into each well, overlapping to cover the length of the well. Top each with 1/4 of the mozzarella balls. Press meat mixture around the filling to enclose; form each portion into an oblong loaf shape. Place loaves into the air fryer basket, in batches.
Step 3
Cook in the air fryer at 370 degrees F (190 degrees C) until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of the meat reads 165 degrees F (75 degrees C), about 15 minutes. Serve meatloaves topped with warm marinara sauce and fresh basil.
Ingredients
⅓ cup milk
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 clove garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons purchased basil pesto
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, or to taste (Optional)
½ cup marinara sauce, warmed
1 pound 90% lean ground beef
⅓ cup Italian-seasoned panko bread crumbs
8 slices pepperoni
2 ounces small fresh mozzarella balls (such as BelGioioso®)
