Air-Fried Pork Loin: A Quick, Crispy Delight

Yes, you can cook pork loin in an air fryer. The high heat of the air fryer means the meat doesn't need to be cooked for as long, helping it stay juicy and moist. It also gives the pork loin a nice browned crust.

How long to cook pork loin in an air fryer

Cooking pork loin in an air fryer is a great way to get a juicy, tender cut of meat with a nice crust. The high heat of the air fryer means the pork loin doesn't dry out and only needs a short cooking time.

The first step is to preheat your air fryer to a high temperature—around 370°F to 400°F. Then, rub your pork loin with oil and spices. You can use a simple dry rub with salt and pepper, or a more complex spice rub with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and brown sugar.

For a 1.5-pound pork tenderloin, cook the meat at 380°F for 10 minutes, then flip it over and cook for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. For a 3-pound pork loin, cook at 370°F for 35 to 45 minutes. For a 2.5-pound piece of frozen pork loin, cook for about 60 minutes at 370°F.

Once the pork loin is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This will ensure the juices redistribute and the meat stays moist and tender.

You can serve your air fryer pork loin with roasted vegetables, potatoes, and a side of applesauce.

What temperature to cook pork loin in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook pork loin in an air fryer. To get the perfect bite, it is important to preheat your air fryer before cooking the pork. This will give the meat the longest time at the highest temperature.

The ideal temperature to cook pork loin in an air fryer is between 370°F and 400°F. The cooking time will depend on the weight of the pork loin, but it is generally recommended to cook it for 12-14 minutes per pound, flipping it once halfway through to ensure even cooking. For a 2.5-3 pound pork loin, this translates to a total cooking time of 35-45 minutes.

It is important to ensure that the pork loin reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F, which is considered safe to eat by the USDA. If you prefer your pork well-done, you can cook it to an internal temperature of 155°F or higher. Using an instant-read thermometer will help you monitor the temperature of your pork loin as it cooks.

Letting the pork loin rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing into it will help retain its juices and ensure a tender, juicy texture.

How to get a juicy pork loin in an air fryer

Selecting the Right Pork Loin Cut

When choosing your pork loin, opt for boneless, lean, and tender cuts that are oval-shaped and weigh between 1-2 lbs. Look for filets with an even thickness to ensure even cooking and moderate marbling for flavour and moisture.

Prepping the Pork Loin for the Air Fryer

Before cooking, trim any excess fat and silverskin from the meat to prevent burning. Blot the filet with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then rub the pork all over with spices and herbs for flavour. Take the pork out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.

Cooking the Pork Loin in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 370°F. Spray or brush the air fryer basket lightly with oil, then place the seasoned pork in a single layer in the basket.

For a 1 lb pork loin, air fry for 15-18 minutes, flipping the meat halfway through. For larger filets, add 2-3 minutes per pound. Check the internal temperature of the pork with a meat thermometer—you want to remove it from the air fryer when it reaches 145°F for medium-rare.

Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Seasoning Ideas

Experiment with different spice blends to infuse your pork loin with flavour. For Mexican-inspired flavours, try a combination of chili powder, cumin, oregano, and garlic. Alternatively, use rosemary, thyme, and sage for an herb blend, or cumin, coriander, ginger, and garlic for an Indian-inspired flair.

How to get a crispy pork loin in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Pork loin
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Spices (e.g. garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, ground mustard, black pepper, cayenne powder)

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 370°F-400°F.
• Trim away any excess fat from the pork loin.
• In a small bowl, mix together your chosen spices.
• Rub the pork loin with olive oil and then with the spice mix.
• Place the pork loin in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 12-14 minutes per pound, flipping once halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
• Transfer the pork loin to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Tips

• Preheat your air fryer to get a nice seared crust.
• Use a meat thermometer to check when your pork loin is cooked to your liking.
• Let the meat rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices in.

What to serve with pork loin

There are many side dishes that go well with pork loin. Here are some ideas:

• Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, garlic bread, green beans, and a mix of potatoes and onions.
• Mashed potatoes and gravy.
• Roasted garlic cauliflower.
• Creamy whipped potato casserole.
• Homemade mashed potatoes.
• Crispy smashed Brussels sprouts.
• Honey-glazed spiced carrots.
• Smothered green beans.
• Roasted garlic Parmesan fingerling potatoes.
• Chopped Brussels sprout salad.
• Butternut squash gratin.
• Fig and arugula salad.
• Polenta.
• Butternut farro salad with blood orange vinaigrette.
• Braised Brussels sprouts with bacon.
• Creamed spinach.
• Roasted fennel root.
• Red lentils with a brown butter sage sauce.
• Creamy Parmesan egg noodles.
• Roasted yellow squash and zucchini with parsley thyme and garlic.
• Pickles.
• Cabbage-based sides, such as red pickled or white fried cabbage.
• Homemade mac and cheese.

Frequently asked questions