Warm Up The Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375F for approximately 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly and efficiently.
Prepare the Meatloaf. Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and beaten egg. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until well combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can result in a dense meatloaf.
Shape the Meatloaf. Transfer the meatloaf mixture onto a clean surface and shape it into a loaf shape. Place the meatloaf on a greased or parchment-lined tray that fits into your air fryer basket.
Apply the Sauce. Brush the marinara over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it is evenly coated. Reserve a small amount of the tomato sauce for later use.
Air Fry the Meatloaf. Place the tray with the meatloaf in the preheated air fryer basket. Air fry at 375F for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160F using a meat thermometer. Halfway through the cooking time, brush the reserved glaze over the meatloaf.
Rest and Slice. Once the meatloaf is cooked, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf easier to slice. Cut the meatloaf into thick slices and serve.
Serve and Enjoy! Serve the Italian Meatloaf slices alongside your favorite side dishes.