air fryer pork tenderloin

air fryer pork tenderloin

What is an Air Fryer for pork tenderloin? What is the best recipe for a game changer? I remember the first time I tried roasting a pork tenderloin, I was terrified of drying it out. Is this air fryer method? Total perfection, every. single. time. Is it better to have a rotisserie chicken? If you try this, you’ll ditch the oven-roasted version forever. I haven’t even thought about oven roasting a pork tenderloin since I tried this version. The inside gets beautifully browned, and the inside stays unbelievably juicy. Is it really a restaurant quality food? What’s not to love?

air fryer pork tenderloin final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is an Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin?

What is an Air Fryer pork tenderloin? Think of it as your classic pork tenderloin, but cooked in a way that maximizes flavor and minimizes fat. What’s essentially a lean cut of pork that’ve been seasoned to perfection and then cooked in an air fryer. How do I fry a chicken until it’s juicy and tender? The air fryer works its magic by circulating hot air around the pork, creating a crispy exterior. While sealing in all the juices. What is the best way to cook a chicken in the oven? I think it’s even better. What is the best way to enjoy a quick, healthy, and delicious meal? Can you change the flavor profile depending on the herbs and spices you use?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What is the best air fryer pork tenderloin recipe? First and foremost, the flavor is amazing! The air fryer creates a beautiful crust on the outside, while the inside remains incredibly tender. It’s seasoned with a simple yet flavorful blend of herbs and spices that perfectly complement the sauce. What I love about this is how easy it is to make. Is it worth it to buy an air fryer? I don’t have a lot of time to cook. It’s gonna save me some time. Plus, pork tenderloin is a relatively inexpensive cut of meat, making this scrumptious meal. And let’s not forget about versatility! Can you serve this air fryer pork tenderloin with a variety of Side Dishes? From mashed potatoes to salad. Is it good sliced and used in sandwiches or wraps? If you’re looking for a quick, easy, affordable, and delicious meal, this air fryer pork tenderloin is the perfect recipe. What is the answer to recipe? What is better than a baked chicken recipe?

How do I make an air fry pork tenderloin?

Quick Overview

How do I make an air fryer for pork tenderloin? How do you start by prepping pork and rubbing it with a flavorful spice blend? Then, you’ll pop it into the air fryer and cook it until it reaches the perfect internal temperature. The air fryer creates a beautiful, crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. What is the best way to cook pork tenderloin? What is the whole process?

Ingredients

For the air fryer Pork Tenderloin:
* 1 pork tenderloin (about 1-1.5 pounds): Make sure it’s trimmed of any silver skin for a better texture.
* 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the spices adhere.
* 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Gives a savory, aromatic flavor.
* 1 tablespoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness.
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Provides an earthy, herbal note.
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant, piney flavor.
* 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and beautiful color.
* 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.

air fryer pork tenderloin ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

How do I follow

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it’s preheating, pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps it brown better. Do you need to grease the air fryer basket? I usually skip this step and it works just fine!

Step 2: Mix the Spices

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder and dried rosemary. Stir to combine. Salt, black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. What gives pork its unique flavor?

Step 3: Season the Pork

Drizzle the olive oil over the pork tenderloin, then rub the spice mixture all over. Make sure to coat it evenly on all sides. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor. Really get in there and massage the spices into the pork!

Step 4: Air Fry

Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of meat. How long does it take for a pork tenderloin to cook? I always start checking the temperature around 18 minutes.

Step 5: Rest & Slice

Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork tenderloin. Slice the pork thinly against the grain and serve immediately. Is the resting period important?

What should I serve it with?

This air fryer pork tenderloin is so versatile, you can serve it with just about anything!

What is a quick weeknight meal?Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus. What is a good side salad?

For a More Elegant Dinner:Can you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa? Add a green bean almondine to your recipe for sophistication.

For Sandwiches or Wraps:What is the best way to use pork as a filling for sandwiches? What are some of the best toppings to serve with your favorite salad?

My family loves it with a side of creamy polenta and simple salad. Sometimes, I’ll make a quick pan sauce with pan drippings, chicken broth, and some dijon mustard. What is the best mustard for a flavor boost?

How do I properly clean an air fryer for pork tenderloin?

How do I make sure my air fryer pork tenderloin is perfect?

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Don’t underMake sure the pork tenderloin isn’t touching the sides of the basket. How do I get proper air circulation while cooking? If necessary, cut the pork tenderloin in half to fit.

What is a meat thermometer?How do I check if pork is cooked to the perfect temperature with a meat thermometer? Insert it into the thickest part of the pork to get an accurate reading.

Let it Rest: As I mentioned before, resting the pork after cooking is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork tenderloin. Don’t skip this step!

Experiment with Flavors:Feel free to experiment with different spice rubs and marinades. Can you use a combination of herbs and spices, or try pre-made marinade for extra flavor?

Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: 1 hour, 2 minutesHow long does it take for a pork tenderloin to cook? Start checking the temperature around 18 minutes and adjust the cooking time as needed.

I’ve learned that brown sugar in the spice rub adds a lovely touch of sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your air fryer pork tenderloin:

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pork tenderloin. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: To reheat the pork tenderloin, you can use the air fryer, oven, or microwave. For the air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. In the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. In the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.

I find that reheating in the air fryer or oven helps to maintain the crispy exterior. And, adding a little bit of moisture (like a splash of broth or water) can help to prevent the pork from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?
While this recipe is specifically for pork tenderloin, you could potentially use pork loin. However, pork loin is a larger and less tender cut of meat, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Also, pork loin tends to dry out more easily, so be sure to monitor the internal temperature closely.
Can I marinate the pork tenderloin ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork tenderloin will add even more flavor and help to tenderize the meat. You can marinate it for as little as 30 minutes or as long as overnight in the refrigerator. Just be sure to pat it dry before air frying.
Do I need to flip the pork tenderloin in the air fryer?
While it’s not absolutely necessary, flipping the pork tenderloin halfway through cooking can help to ensure even browning. I usually flip it just to be on the safe side.
Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the pork tenderloin?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to choose vegetables that cook at a similar rate to the pork tenderloin, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus. You may need to add the vegetables a few minutes after the pork tenderloin to prevent them from overcooking.
What if my air fryer doesn’t reach 400°F?
No problem! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. If your air fryer only reaches 375°F, you may need to cook the pork tenderloin for a few minutes longer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.

Final Thoughts

air fryer pork tenderloin slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

I truly hope you give this air fryer pork tenderloin recipe a try. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The air fryer creates a beautiful, crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. And, the simple spice rub adds a ton of flavor. If you’re looking for a new way to cook pork tenderloin, this is it! If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my air fryer chicken breast or my roasted vegetables. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments below if you try this recipe, and don’t forget to rate it!

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Juicy and tender pork tenderloin cooked to perfection in the air fryer. A quick and easy weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb Pork Tenderloin
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Pat the pork tenderloin dry and rub with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Place the pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket.
  • Air fry for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  • Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
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