Air Fryer Frozen Pork Loin: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Cooking pork loin in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a juicy and flavorful meal. While it is possible to cook frozen pork loin in an air fryer, it is important to note that the cooking time will be longer than if the meat was thawed. The cooking time will depend on the size of the pork loin and the desired level of doneness. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork reaches the desired internal temperature of 145°F to 155°F.

Cooking times and temperatures for frozen pork loin in an air fryer

Cooking frozen pork loin in an air fryer is possible and can yield delicious results. The cooking time and temperature will depend on the size and thickness of your pork loin, as well as the specifications of your air fryer. Here are some general guidelines to help you get started:

Cooking Times:

It is recommended to cook frozen pork loin in an air fryer for 33 to 40 minutes. However, some sources suggest cooking for about 60 minutes, especially if you are cooking a larger piece of meat. If you are cooking a smaller pork loin, you may only need 25 minutes. It's important to note that cooking durations can vary due to factors such as the initial temperature and thickness of the meat, as well as the specifics of your air fryer.

Cooking Temperatures:

The recommended temperature for cooking frozen pork loin in an air fryer is 350°F (177°C). However, if you are using a smaller air fryer (4-quart or smaller), it is suggested to reduce the temperature to 380°F (193°C) as the heating element is closer to the food. For a 2.5-pound piece of meat, a temperature of 370°F is recommended for about 60 minutes.

Internal Temperature:

The internal temperature of the pork loin is crucial to ensure it is safely cooked. The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for pork. This temperature range falls under medium-rare, according to the National Pork Board. If you prefer your meat more well-done, you can aim for higher temperatures within the medium to well-done range, which is between 150°F to 160°F.

Tips for Optimal Cooking:

• Preheat your air fryer: Preheating your air fryer is essential to ensure the meat cooks evenly and reaches the desired temperature.
• Flip halfway through: To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to flip the pork loin halfway through the cooking process.
• Rest the meat: After cooking, let the pork loin rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in juicier meat.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your pork loin is cooked to the recommended temperature, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

How to season frozen pork loin for the air fryer

Yes, you can cook frozen pork tenderloin/loin in an air fryer. To season your frozen pork loin for the air fryer, you can use a dry rub or a seasoning blend.

Dry Rub

First, trim away any excess fat or ''silver skin'' from the outside of the pork loin. Then, pat the pork loin dry with a paper towel. Next, rub the pork loin all over with the dry rub seasoning mix. Make sure to coat the entire pork loin with the dry rub. You can use a store-bought dry rub or make your own by mixing spices, such as brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, pepper, and a dash of cayenne for a little heat.

Seasoning Blend

Start by trimming away any excess fat or ''silver skin'' from the pork loin. Then, coat the pork loin with olive oil or avocado oil. After that, rub the pork loin with the seasoning blend, making sure to cover all sides. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend or make your own by mixing avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Once your pork loin is seasoned, place it in the preheated air fryer and cook for 33-40 minutes at 350°F (177°C) or 60 minutes at 370°F (190°C) until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Flip the pork loin halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. After cooking, let the pork loin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to ensure pork loin is cooked safely

Yes, you can cook frozen pork loin in an air fryer. It is important to ensure that the pork loin is cooked safely to avoid foodborne illnesses. Here are some detailed instructions on how to ensure pork loin is cooked safely:

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 350°F-400°F (177°C-204°C). The higher temperature is ideal for creating a nice crust on the outside of the pork loin. While preheating, pat the pork loin dry with a paper towel.

Next, prepare a seasoning blend by mixing avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick of spice. Drizzle this seasoning blend over your frozen pork loin, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Now, gently place your seasoned pork loin into the preheated air fryer. Set the timer for 33-40 minutes and flip the pork loin halfway through to ensure even cooking. The duration may vary depending on the initial temperature and thickness of the pork loin, as well as the specifications of your air fryer.

To ensure the pork loin is safely cooked, use a meat thermometer to verify that it has reached an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). This is the minimum safe temperature recommended by the USDA for pork chops and roasts. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, ensuring it is not touching any bones, as this will affect the accuracy of the reading.

Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the pork loin from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the meat to continue cooking and helps lock in the juices, making the pork loin juicier and more tender.

Finally, you can slice and serve the pork loin immediately. Enjoy your delicious and safely cooked air-fried pork loin!

Some additional tips for ensuring food safety when cooking pork loin:

• Wash your hands after handling raw or undercooked pork to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Clean your meat thermometer with soapy water before and after use to ensure accuracy and maintain proper hygiene.
• For ground pork, cook it to a higher internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure food safety.
• If you are cooking fatty cuts of pork, such as pork shoulder or belly, you may want to cook it to a higher temperature of 93-95°C to break down the connective tissues and create a softer texture.

What to serve with pork loin

Yes, you can cook frozen pork tenderloin in an air fryer. It is recommended to cook it for 33-40 minutes at 350ºF (177ºC), flipping it halfway through to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 145ºF (63ºC).

Now, for the side dishes that will complement your juicy air-fried pork loin:

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted veggies are a classic side dish for pork loin. Carrots, garlic, green beans, and a mix of potatoes and onions are all excellent choices. You can also get creative with other roasted vegetables like cauliflower, squash, turnips, or a rainbow of root vegetables.

Potatoes

Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser and can be prepared in various ways. Try mashed potatoes, grilled potatoes, scalloped potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or au gratin potatoes with a savory sauce and cheddar cheese.

Salads

If you're looking for something lighter, a simple salad can be a perfect side dish. A nutty farro salad with roasted butternut squash, cranberries, and toasted pecans, or a broccoli apple salad would be delightful choices.

Pasta or Rice

Pork loin goes well with pasta or rice dishes. Try pairing it with homemade Alfredo, Mac and Cheese, or white rice.

Applesauce

Applesauce is a traditional pairing with pork, so consider serving it with slow cooker applesauce or roasted apples.

Bread

Bread is always a welcome addition to a meal. Garlic bread or Parker House Rolls with their pillowy texture and browned tops would be excellent choices.

There are endless possibilities for side dishes to serve with pork loin, so feel free to experiment and find your favorites!

How to store and reheat leftover pork loin

Storing leftover pork loin:

• Store leftover pork loin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• If you wish to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
• If you have a lot of leftover pork, consider wrapping it in plastic before placing it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
• You can also save the juices from cooking to add extra moisture when reheating.

Reheating leftover pork loin:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350-380°F.
• While preheating, slice the pork loin into medallions or 1/2-inch pieces.
• Place the pork loin slices on a piece of aluminum foil and drizzle with chicken or vegetable stock, broth, or butter to add moisture and flavor.
• Gently fold the foil to create a packet, sealing in the juices and flavor.
• Place the foil-wrapped pork loin packet in the air fryer basket and reheat at 350-380°F for 5-10 minutes.
• For a crisp exterior, remove the pork from the foil and place it back in the air fryer uncovered at 400°F for 2-3 minutes.
• You can also reheat the pork loin in a frying pan or skillet on the stovetop. Heat some olive oil or butter in the pan, sear the pork loin for about 30 seconds on each side, lower the heat, cover, and let it heat through for another 2 minutes.

Note: Always ensure your pork loin is fully cooked before consuming. The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 145°F for pork.

Frequently asked questions