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 prepare this cut of meat, with most recipes taking under 30 minutes. Air-frying pork tenderloin yields a juicy and tender result, with a flavorful crust and moist interior.

How to prepare the pork tenderloin for the air fryer

Preparing a pork tenderloin for the air fryer is a simple process that yields juicy and tender meat. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare the pork tenderloin for the air fryer:

Step 1: Remove Silver Skin

First, trim any 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. Trimming it ensures that the spices and oil can be properly absorbed by the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Rub

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dry spices and herbs of your choice. Common spices used include salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, cayenne, dried oregano, and chili powder. You can adjust the spice blend to your taste preferences or what is available in your pantry. Mix the spices together thoroughly.

Step 3: Coat the Tenderloin

Drizzle or brush olive oil over the tenderloin. The oil helps the seasoning stick to the meat and keeps it juicy. Then, generously rub the spice mixture all over the tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly. You can use your hands or a brush to ensure the spices adhere to the meat.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to the desired temperature, typically between 350-400°F (180-200°C). Preheat the air fryer for about 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the correct temperature. This step helps to create a crispy crust on the tenderloin.

Step 5: Place the Tenderloin in the Air Fryer

Carefully place the seasoned tenderloin into the air fryer basket. If your tenderloin is too large to fit, you may need to cut it in half or bend it to fit the basket. Ensure that there is space around the tenderloin for even cooking.

Step 6: Air Fry the Tenderloin

Cook the tenderloin for the recommended time based on its size and the air fryer settings. For a 1-pound tenderloin, cook for around 15-20 minutes. Larger tenderloins may take a few minutes longer. Flip the tenderloin halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Check the Internal Temperature

Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the tenderloin. The pork is considered safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If the tenderloin has not reached this temperature, continue cooking and check again in a few minutes.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once the tenderloin has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board or plate for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender final product. After resting, slice the tenderloin and serve it with your choice of sides.

The best seasonings to use

When it comes to seasoning your pork tenderloin, there are a variety of options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular and effective seasonings to help you create a delicious and flavourful meal:

Salt and Pepper

Salt and pepper are the dynamic duo of seasonings, providing a simple yet effective flavour boost to your pork tenderloin. They form the base of your seasoning mix, enhancing the taste of the meat without overwhelming it.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar is a secret weapon for creating a mouth-watering, caramelised crust on your pork tenderloin. When exposed to the high heat of the air fryer, brown sugar caramelises beautifully, adding a touch of sweetness and a gorgeous golden colour to your dish.

Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavour and a hint of spice to your pork tenderloin. It pairs exceptionally well with the other seasonings and helps create a robust and enticing aroma.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder is a versatile seasoning that adds a savoury punch to your dish. It enhances the overall flavour of the pork tenderloin without being too overpowering.

Onion Powder

Onion powder is another flavour enhancer that brings a subtle onion flavour to your pork tenderloin. It adds depth and complexity to your dish without the need for fresh onions.

Ground Mustard

Ground mustard provides a subtle tanginess and a hint of spice to your pork tenderloin. It pairs well with the other seasonings and helps to round out the overall flavour profile.

Cayenne Powder (optional)

For those who enjoy a little extra heat, a dash of cayenne powder can be added to the seasoning mix. It brings a spicy kick to your pork tenderloin without overwhelming the other flavours.

Dried Thyme

Dried thyme adds an earthy and slightly woody flavour to your pork tenderloin. It pairs well with the other seasonings and helps to create a well-rounded, savoury dish.

Crushed Red Pepper

If you're looking for an extra kick of spice, crushed red pepper can be a great addition to your seasoning mix. It adds a subtle heat that complements the other flavours in the dish.

Dried Oregano

Dried oregano brings a subtle earthiness and warmth to your pork tenderloin. It adds depth of flavour without being too overpowering, making it a great addition to your seasoning blend.

How long to cook the pork tenderloin for

The cooking time for pork tenderloin in an air fryer varies depending on the weight of the meat and the model of the air fryer. However, on average, it takes around 20-25 minutes to cook a pork tenderloin in an air fryer.

For a 1-pound pork tenderloin, cook it in the air fryer at 400°F for 8 minutes, check and turn it if needed, then cook for another 7-10 minutes. The internal temperature of the pork tenderloin should reach 145°F.

For a 1.5-pound pork tenderloin, cook it in the air fryer at 400°F for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

If you are using a larger air fryer and can fit the whole tenderloin without cutting it in half, you may need to cook it for a few extra minutes to ensure it is cooked through.

It is important to note that pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat, so be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out quickly. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it is cooked to your desired doneness.

Let the pork tenderloin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help retain the juices and keep the meat moist and tender.

The ideal temperature to cook the pork tenderloin at

The ideal temperature to cook a pork tenderloin in an air fryer is between 325°F and 400°F (165°C and 200°C). The temperature you choose within this range will depend on the size of your tenderloin and your air fryer model.

For example, one recipe recommends cooking a 1.25-1.75 lbs tenderloin at 400°F for 20-22 minutes. In contrast, another recipe for a 1.5 lbs tenderloin suggests cooking at 400°F for 5 minutes, then reducing the temperature to 325°F and cooking for another 12-15 minutes.

The key is to ensure the tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This is the temperature at which pork is considered safe to eat, and it will also ensure your meat is juicy and tender.

It is important to let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.

How to store leftover pork tenderloin

Leftover pork tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months.

When reheating, it is best to use a method that helps the meat retain its moisture. For example, you can place the pork in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of broth or sauce, cover with foil, and reheat in the oven at a low temperature until it reaches your desired temperature. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals at medium power.

It is generally best to add sauces or marinades to the pork after reheating, as this ensures even flavour distribution and prevents the meat from becoming overly dry.

Frequently asked questions