Air-Fryer Pork Tenderloin: Is It Possible?

Yes, you can cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer. It's a quick and easy way to cook the meat, with most recipes taking under 30 minutes. The air fryer method is said to produce a juicy tenderloin with a crispy, golden-brown crust.

How long does it take to cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer?

The cooking time for pork tenderloin in an air fryer depends on the weight of the tenderloin and the temperature of the air fryer. Most recipes recommend cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer for 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). However, some recipes suggest cooking it for as little as 15 minutes or as long as 35 minutes.

Prepare the pork tenderloin:

First, remove any silver skin or excess fat from the tenderloin. You can do this by using a sharp knife to carefully peel away the membrane. Then, pat the pork dry with paper towels. This will help ensure a good sear on the meat. Finally, rub the tenderloin with a small amount of olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat.

Make the seasoning:

In a small or medium-sized bowl, mix together the dry ingredients for your chosen seasoning. You can use a pre-made spice blend or make your own. Some popular seasonings for pork tenderloin include salt, pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley, seasoning salt, dried thyme, and ground mustard.

Rub the seasoning onto the pork tenderloin:

Once you have prepared your chosen seasoning, rub it all over the tenderloin until it is evenly coated. Make sure to get a good coat of the seasoning onto the meat, as this will help create a delicious crust during cooking.

Preheat the air fryer:

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat it for 5 minutes. It is important to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and to help create a crispy crust on the tenderloin.

Cook the pork tenderloin:

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the tenderloin inside and set the timer for 20-25 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the weight of your tenderloin. Most pork tenderloins weigh between 1-1.5 lbs. For a smaller tenderloin (around 1 lb), cook for 20 minutes. For a larger tenderloin (around 1.5 lbs), cook for 22-25 minutes.

It is important to note that the key to cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures that the meat is safe to eat while still maintaining its juiciness. To check the internal temperature, use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the centre of the meat.

Let the pork tenderloin rest:

Once the cooking is done, carefully remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and place it on a plate or cutting board. Let it rest for 3-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy piece of meat.

Serve and enjoy:

After the resting period, slice the pork tenderloin and serve it with your favourite sides. Some suggested sides include roasted potatoes and carrots, garlic mashed potatoes, salad, roasted red potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, and various vegetables.

Tips for cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer:

• Bring the meat to room temperature before cooking: Taking the chill off the meat by letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking will help it cook more evenly.
• Preheat the air fryer: As mentioned above, preheating the air fryer is important for even cooking and to create a crispy crust.
• Don't overcook the pork tenderloin: Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat, so be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out easily.
• Let the meat rest after cooking: This is a crucial step to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a juicy, tender piece of meat.
• Store leftovers properly: Leftover pork tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days or in the freezer for 2-6 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge if frozen, then warm back in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 3-4 minutes.

In conclusion:

Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and juicy meal. By following the above steps and tips, you can ensure that your pork tenderloin turns out perfectly every time. Enjoy!

What temperature should the air fryer be set to?

The optimal temperature for cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is between 325-400°F (165-200°C).

The air fryer should be preheated to 400°F for 5 minutes before the pork is added. The temperature can then be lowered to 350°F or kept at 400°F for the duration of the cooking time.

The length of time the pork tenderloin is cooked at this temperature will depend on the size of the cut of meat. For example, a 1-1.5lb tenderloin will take 20-22 minutes to cook at 400°F, whereas a 1.25-1.75lb tenderloin will take 15-21 minutes.

The key is to ensure the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin reaches 145°F. This can be measured with an instant-read thermometer.

How to prepare the pork tenderloin before cooking

Preparing a pork tenderloin before air frying is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best results. Firstly, remove the tenderloin from the refrigerator and pat it dry with a paper towel. This is an important step as it helps the seasoning stick to the meat. Next, trim any excess fat or "silver skin" from the tenderloin using a sharp knife. The silver skin is a thin membrane that is usually found on part of the meat and can be easily peeled away.

Once the tenderloin is trimmed, it's time to season. You can use a variety of seasonings, but a typical combination includes salt, brown sugar, pepper, dried thyme, paprika, and garlic powder. You can also add Dijon mustard and honey to the mix for extra flavour. Mix your chosen seasonings in a small bowl, then rub the spice mixture all over the tenderloin, making sure it is evenly coated. You can also add a little olive oil to the tenderloin before seasoning to help the spices stick and keep the meat juicy.

After the tenderloin is seasoned, it's ready to be placed in the air fryer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cut the tenderloin in half so that it fits comfortably in the basket. Make sure there is space between the pieces for even cooking. Now, you're ready to cook!

How to store leftover pork tenderloin

Storing leftover pork tenderloin is simple and can be done in a few easy steps. Firstly, it is important to refrigerate the leftover pork within two hours of cooking to prevent the growth of bacteria. Place the leftover pork in an airtight container and put it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for three to four days. It is important to note that leftover pork should never be left out on the counter to cool, as bacteria may develop at room temperature.

If you want to keep the leftover pork for longer, you can freeze it. Cut the leftover pork into slices and place them in a tightly sealed, airtight container or a freezer bag. Make sure to press out any excess air from the bag before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and any other relevant information. Properly stored, the leftover pork tenderloin will last for about two to three months in the freezer, although it can be stored safely beyond this time. When you are ready to enjoy your leftover pork again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before heating it up.

What to serve with pork tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Starchy Sides

Starch-based sides are always a crowd-pleaser, and there are many options to choose from. Potatoes are a classic choice, and you can spice things up with roasted garlic Parmesan fingerling potatoes or a creamy whipped potato casserole. For something a little different, try polenta, which is a coarsely ground cornmeal that pairs perfectly with saucy meats. Or, if you're feeling indulgent, go for a stick-of-butter rice dish that will surely satisfy.

Vegetable Sides

Vegetables also make excellent sides for pork tenderloin. You can keep it simple with roasted veggies like broccolini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. Or get creative with a chopped Brussels sprout salad, roasted garlic cauliflower, or a butternut farro salad with blood orange vinaigrette. If you're feeling adventurous, try a spiral cut zucchini with browned garlic and fresh parsley.

Hearty Sides

For a more filling meal, consider serving your pork tenderloin with a hearty side dish. A butternut squash gratin, loaded cauliflower casserole, or creamy au gratin potatoes will surely satisfy. Or, for a more indulgent option, try Parker House rolls, which are a pillowy, browned bread that makes an excellent side for any dinner spread.

Salads

If you're looking for something lighter, a salad can be a great option to pair with pork tenderloin. A simple Frenched green bean salad or a corn salad with sumac and feta are refreshing options. Or, for something more unique, try a fig and arugula salad, which will add a peppery kick to your meal.

Fruits

Fruits can also be a delicious and unexpected side dish for pork tenderloin. Try roasted apples or a sweet potato dish, like sweet potato stacks or sweet potato rolls, for a touch of sweetness to balance the savoury flavours of the pork.

With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect side dish to elevate your pork tenderloin meal!

Frequently asked questions