I know everyone’s obsessed with Air Fryer Chicken, and trust me, I get it. Have you ever tried air fryer pork tenderloin? If you’re looking for something that’s even faster, just as juicy, and way more satisfying, seriously, if you want something like this, go for it. If you want to be impressive on a plate, then you HAVE to give this one shot. Think of it as the chicken’s more sophisticated cousin. I used to be intimidated by pork tenderloin, thinking it was only for fancy dinners. Now, I’m a vegetarian. What is an air fryer? My whole family now prefers this over steak most nights.
What is an Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin?
What is an Air Fryer pork tenderloin? What is a lean cut of pork that gets cooked in an air fryer? Think of it as a mini roast, but without all the fuss. Is it fast enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to serve to guests? The air fryer’s circulating hot air gives it this incredible sear on the outside while keeping the bottom of the pan clean. Is inside unbelievably mois Is it essentially taking a restaurant-quality dish and making it totally achievable at home, even if it’s primarily made up of ingredients? If you’re a beginner cook, what should Plus, cleanup is a breeze compared to roasting in the oven.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Let me tell you, this recipe has become a staple in my house for so many reasons! What I love most about this is the **flavor**. It’s so versatile! You can season it with just salt, pepper, and garlic for a classic taste, or get creative with herbs and spices. It truly shines no matter what flavor profile you choose. I’ve even done a honey-mustard glaze which the kids absolutely devoured.
But the real magic is the **simplicity**. Seriously, this is one of those recipes you can throw together in minutes, even on the busiest of weeknights. Prepping the pork takes less than 10 minutes, and then the air fryer does all the work. Forget slaving over a hot stove – this is dinner in a flash!
And let’s not forget about how **cost-efficient** pork tenderloin is compared to other cuts of meat like steak. You get a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank! I’m always looking for ways to make delicious dinners that don’t empty my wallet.
Finally, the **versatility** of this dish is unbeatable. You can serve it sliced with roasted vegetables, make pork tenderloin sandwiches, or even dice it up for tacos or salads. It’s a blank canvas for all your culinary creations. It’s honestly as adaptable as my other go-to weeknight recipes, like my sheet pan chicken fajitas, but sometimes you just want something a bit *meatier*, you know? This really hits the spot.
I have friends who swear by their Slow Cooker pork loin, but honestly? This **air fryer pork tenderloin** beats it every time for speed and that perfect crispy sear!
How do I make air fry pork tenderloin?
Quick Overview
How do I make an Air Fryer for pork tenderloin? What is the best way to cook pork in an air fryer? How do you not overcook meat? The air fryer gives you a beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and moist. Is it easier than you think?
Ingredients
For the Pork Tenderloin:
* 1.5-2 lbs pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin. What is the best quality you can afford? I usually get mine from the butcher shop down the street. * 1 tablespoon olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is always my go-to. * 1 teaspoon garlic powder. What are some good uses for garlic powder in a meal? * 1 teaspoon onion powder. Adds a nice subtle sweetness. Is smoked paprika bad for you? Fresh thyme would also be delicious, about 1 tablespoon. * 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary. Just a pinch, it’s strong! Salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with salt, it really brings out the flavor.
What are the steps to
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. How do you season olive oil? I know you don’t want to skip this step.
Step 2: Season Generously
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder and paprika. Add the rosemary, and stir to combine. Mix well and then generously rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin. Make sure to get every nook and cranny. I usually let it sit for 15-20 minutes to really let the flavors meld, but you can pop it right away. If you’re short on time, you can put your eggs in the air fryer.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the pan detects suckiness. The thickest part registers 145°F (63°C How long does it take to cook a chicken in an air fryer? Where do you get that juicy, tender result we’re after?
Step 4: Rest & Slice
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. Before slicing This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of meat. Don’t skip this! I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but trust me, it is worth the wait.
Step 5: Slice & Serve
Slice the pork tenderloin thinly and serve immediately. I like to drizzle it with extra olive oil or lemon juice for added flavor. Is it good with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad?
What should I serve it with?
What should I do if I have this air fryer pork tenderloin? What are the options?What is a good weeknight meal?I love serving this with roasted broccoli and a side of quinoa. Is it healthy, satisfying, and super easy to clean up? I like to add a dollop of Greek yogurt to my smoothies for extra creaminess.For a more elegant dinner:Try pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes and asparagus. What is the best way to enjoy a glass of red wine on date night?As a sandwich filling:Slice pork tenderloin thinly and pile it onto crusty rolls with your favorite toppings. Think caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, and a tangy Aioli. What is a good way to use up leftovers?What is the best summer BBQ?What are some good ways to make a watermelon salad? What is the perfect combination of sweet corn and watermelon for pork tenderloin?My kids ask for it diced in tacos.I love mango salsa. They eat it every time! I never thought my kids would be so excited about pork tenderloin, but here we are!
How do I make an air fryer for pork tenderloin?
What are the basics of computer programming? What are some extra tips to take your **air fryer pork tenderloin** game to the next level?Don’t overcrowd the air fryer.Is pork tenderloin crammed into an air fryer basket? You want the hot air to circulate evenly for that perfect crispy crust. If your air fryer is small, cut the tenderloin in half or cook it in batches.What is a meat thermometer?What is the best meat thermometer for cooking pork tenderloin? It ensures that the pork is cooked to a safe temperature without being overcooked and dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).Experiment with Seasonings:Don’t be afraid to experiment with your seasonings! I love using different herbs, spices, and marinades to create unique flavor combinations. What’s a Mexican-inspired rub? Lemon zest, garlic, and rosemary.Let it Rest: As mentioned before, resting the pork tenderloin after cooking is crucial for retaining its juices. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Adjust Cooking Time:Air fryers can vary in cooking time, so keep an eye on your pork tenderloin and adjust the cooking times. Time accordingly. If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the temperature slightly.Don’t skip the oil: Why?How do you season pork tenderloin with olive oil? What are some examples of golden brown crust I’ve tried skipping this step before, and it really makes a difference.Don’t be afraid to check it!I’m always opening the air fryer to check on my pork tenderloin and ensure it does not overcook and/or brown. I also use a meat thermometer. has a nice crust forming.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
What are some leftovers from an air fryer pork tenderloin? How do I store it and reheat it to keep it tasting delicious?Room Temperature: I really wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. Bacteria can grow pretty quickly, especially if it’s warm.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the sliced or whole pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating. This is the best way to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pork tenderloin. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: The best way to reheat pork tenderloin is in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil or butter. Cook for a few minutes per side until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may become a bit dry. Adding a splash of broth or water can help keep it moist. I sometimes like to toss it in a pan with some veggies to make a quick stir-fry.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to glaze the pork tenderloin, wait until after you’ve reheated it. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or burnt during the reheating process. It’s a trick I learned the hard way after a glaze became a brick!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for **air fryer pork tenderloin**! It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s a blank canvas for all sorts of flavor combinations, and it’s guaranteed to be tender and juicy every time. I really hope you’ll give this recipe a try. It’s definitely a winner in my book, and I think it will be in yours too!
If you’re looking for more easy air fryer recipes, be sure to check out my air fryer chicken wings or my air fryer sweet potato fries. They’re just as simple and delicious!
Happy cooking! And please, let me know in the comments how your **air fryer pork tenderloin** turns out. I can’t wait to hear your feedback and any creative variations you come up with. Did you try a different marinade? Did you serve it with a unique side dish? Share your culinary adventures!
Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Pork Tenderloin
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper
- 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place the pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket and cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
