Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich

Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich — Do you love meatloaf but don’t want the hassle of making a loaf?

Then this fried meatloaf sandwich is perfect for you! It’s quick, easy, and delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftovers. So give it a try today!

Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich is the perfect way to use leftover meatloaf, and the air fryer is perfect for making them.

I love a great meatloaf sandwich. Before I get into any debate, I know from my own family that some like to eat this cold and eat it hot. This was my youngest son’s lunch, and he likes the meatloaf hot on the inside, so I heated it in the air fryer for a couple of minutes before assembling the sandwich.

But, if you like it cold, do not heat it. It’s your sandwich; I am just showing you how I made this one, as always. Use your imagination to put your own spin on the recipe.

What Is A Fried Meatloaf Sandwich?

A Fried Meatloaf Sandwich is a delicious and hearty sandwich with slices of meatloaf fried until crispy and then sandwiched between bread or a bun. It’s a popular comfort food option that combines meatloaf’s savory flavors with a fried coating’s crunchy texture.

This sandwich offers a delightful contrast between the crispy, fried exterior and the tender, flavorful interior of the meatloaf. It’s a comfort food classic that many people find irresistible.

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Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich

These Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwiches have been our favorite for as long as I can remember. There is nothing like using up leftovers for the next day’s lunch, easy and delicious.

These Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwiches take your leftover meatloaf to a new world.  Add some of my homemade ketchup for some added flavor, and you will have an excellent lunch for yourself.

I usually serve my family this with a healthy side dish of Air Fryer Onion Rings and Some Homemade Coleslaw. This recipe will work on any meatloaf you have left over. Of course, my favorite is my homemade Air Fryer Meatloaf, but obviously, this will work on the oven-made meatloaf.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich

Prepare to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich. This hearty sandwich features slices of savory meatloaf, lovingly fried to crispy perfection and nestled between slices of bread for a satisfying meal. Let’s explore the essential ingredients that make this sandwich a true delight.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Cooked Meatloaf Slices: The star of the sandwich, cooked meatloaf slices provide a rich, savory flavor and a tender, meaty texture.
• Bread Slices or Bun: Bread or a bun serves as the vessel to hold the fried meatloaf, providing a comforting base for the sandwich.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices add flavor to the meatloaf and the breading.
• Condiments (Optional): You can customize your sandwich with ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, or barbecue sauce for added flavor.
• Lettuce, Tomato, Onion (Optional): Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato slices, and onions can be added to enhance the sandwich with extra crunch and freshness.
• Cheese (Optional): If you’re a cheese lover, consider adding a slice of your favorite cheese to melt over the fried meatloaf for an extra layer of deliciousness.
• This lineup of ingredients is all you need to create a memorable Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich, a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

How To Make Meatloaf Sandwich In Air Fryer

Creating a mouthwatering Meatloaf Sandwich in your air fryer is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:

Start by heating your meatloaf in the microwave or the air fryer. Then layer it on the bottom of the bread slice, then a piece of cheese, a portion of warmed meatloaf, then another piece of cheese, and top it off with another piece of bread.

Butter the top of the bread. Spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place the buttered bread and butter on the top of the sandwich. Set the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F and the cooking time to 3-5 minutes; I flipped it halfway so both sides got nice and toasty.

Recipe Variations

Elevate your Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich with these tasty recipe variations:

• Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf Sandwich: Before coating and frying the meatloaf slices, insert your favorite cheese between two meatloaf slices. This creates a cheesy surprise in the center of your sandwich.
• Spicy Meatloaf Sandwich: Add a kick of heat by mixing hot sauce or chili powder into your breadcrumb coating. Top the sandwich with jalapeño slices or spicy pickles for extra spice.
• Mushroom and Swiss Meatloaf Sandwich: Sauté sliced mushrooms until tender and golden brown. Place the cooked mushrooms and Swiss cheese between the meatloaf slices before frying. A drizzle of gravy completes this savory creation.
• BBQ Meatloaf Sandwich: Brush the meatloaf slices with your favorite barbecue sauce before coating them with breadcrumbs. After frying, top the sandwich with more barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and pickles for a delicious barbecue twist.
• Meatball Sub-Style Sandwich: Cut the meatloaf slices into meatball-sized portions. Air fry them, then place them in a sub roll with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying meatball sub-inspired sandwich.
• Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Sandwich: Wrap each meatloaf slice with a strip of bacon before frying. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and a delightful crunch to the sandwich.
• Eggplant Parmesan Meatloaf Sandwich: Create an Italian-inspired sandwich by adding a layer of breaded and fried eggplant slices between the meatloaf slices. Top with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
• Salsa and Guacamole Meatloaf Sandwich: Give your sandwich a Tex-Mex twist by adding salsa, guacamole, and a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese to the meatloaf slices. It’s a flavorful and zesty variation.
• Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf Sandwich: Mix buffalo sauce into the breadcrumb coating for a spicy kick. Serve the sandwich with blue cheese dressing and crunchy celery sticks.
• Thanksgiving Meatloaf Sandwich: Top the meatloaf slices with cranberry sauce, stuffing, and gravy for a sandwich that captures the flavors of Thanksgiving dinner.

These creative variations allow you to transform your Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich into a range of delicious options to suit your cravings and culinary preferences. Enjoy experimenting with these exciting twists.

Pro Tips

Elevate your Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich game with these pro tips:

• Use Moisture-Rich Meatloaf: Start with a moist and flavorful meatloaf as the base for your sandwich. Adding diced onions, minced garlic, and ketchup to your meatloaf mixture can enhance its flavor and moisture content.
• Slice Evenly: Aim for even and uniform slices when slicing your cooked meatloaf. This ensures that they cook evenly and fit nicely inside your sandwich.
• Double Dip for Extra Crunch: Double dip the meatloaf slices in the egg and breadcrumb coating for an extra crispy crust. After the first dip, let them sit for a few minutes to allow the coating to adhere, then dip them again for a thicker and crunchier crust.
• Choose the Right Bread: Select a bread or bun that complements the meatloaf’s flavor and texture. Soft rolls, ciabatta, or even Texas toast are great options. Toasting the bread before assembling the sandwich adds a delightful contrast in texture.
• Customize Condiments: Tailor the condiments to your taste. For a unique flavor profile, experiment with different sauces like sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or horseradish sauce.
• Melting Cheese: If you’re using cheese, add it to the meatloaf slices while they’re still warm from the air fryer. The residual heat will melt the cheese beautifully.
• Warm Meatloaf: If you’ve refrigerated leftover meatloaf slices, warm them briefly in the air fryer before assembling the sandwich. This ensures the sandwich is hot and the meatloaf stays tender.
• Add Freshness: Incorporate fresh elements like lettuce, tomato, and onion to balance the richness of the meatloaf. Sliced pickles or coleslaw also provide a refreshing crunch.
• Serve with Dipping Sauce: Consider serving your sandwich with a side of dipping sauce, such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. It’s perfect for dipping each delicious bite.
• Press Gently: If your sandwich is loaded with fillings, gently press it down before biting. This helps hold everything together and prevents it from falling apart.
• Pair with Pickles: A classic accompaniment to a meatloaf sandwich is a dill pickle on the side. Its tanginess and crunch complement the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with Leftovers: This sandwich is a great way to use leftover meatloaf. Feel free to get creative with the toppings and condiments to give your leftovers a fresh twist.

By following these pro tips, you’ll create an Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich that’s satisfying and bursting with flavor and texture. Enjoy every delectable bite!

Faq’s

Can I use leftover meatloaf for this sandwich? Yes, using leftover meatloaf is a great way to make this sandwich quickly. Slice the leftover meatloaf and follow the frying and assembly steps outlined in the recipe.

Can I freeze cooked meatloaf slices for future sandwiches? Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf slices for later use. Wrap the slices individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store them in the freezer. To use, thaw them in the refrigerator and then reheat them in the air fryer before assembling the sandwich.

Can I use a different type of bread for the sandwich? Absolutely! You can choose your favorite type of bread or bun for the sandwich. Popular choices include soft rolls, ciabatta, hoagie rolls, or even Texas toast for a thicker sandwich.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out during air frying? To prevent the meatloaf from drying out, start with a moist mixture. Add ingredients like diced onions, minced garlic, or ketchup to the meatloaf mixture for extra moisture. Additionally, avoid overcooking the meatloaf slices in the air fryer; they should be crispy on the outside but still tender on the inside.

What are some creative condiments to try on this sandwich? Get creative with condiments! In addition to ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard, you can try condiments like sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, barbecue sauce, horseradish sauce, or pesto for unique and delicious flavors.

Can I make this sandwich for a meal prep lunch or dinner ahead of time? While the freshly fried meatloaf slices are best, you can prepare some components beforehand. Cook and slice the meatloaf in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it in the air fryer when you’re ready to assemble the sandwich. Assemble the sandwich just before eating to maintain its freshness.

What are some good side dishes to serve with an Air Fryer Meatloaf Sandwich? Popular side dishes to complement the sandwich include potato salad, coleslaw, french fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad. Dill pickles or pickle spears also make a classic and tangy side.

Can I make a vegetarian or vegan version of this sandwich? You can create a vegetarian or vegan version using plant-based meatloaf or meatless alternatives. There are various vegetarian and vegan meatloaf recipes available that you can use as a filling.

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