Marianne Martinez
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a juicy and tender cut of meat. The cooking time varies depending on the size of the tenderloin, but it generally takes between 15 to 25 minutes. The key to getting a perfectly cooked tenderloin is to ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
How long to cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preheat temperature | 400°F |
| Preheat time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking temperature | 400°F |
| Cooking time | 15-22 minutes |
| Internal temperature | 145°F |
| Resting time | 3-5 minutes |
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What You'll Learn
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F
Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. By preheating your air fryer to 400°F, you ensure that your pork tenderloin cooks evenly and efficiently. Here's a step-by-step guide to preheating your air fryer to the optimal temperature for cooking juicy and tender pork tenderloin:
Start by setting your air fryer to 400°F. This temperature is crucial as it allows the pork tenderloin to cook thoroughly without drying out. Most air fryers have temperature controls that let you set the desired temperature. Once you've set the temperature, give the air fryer a few minutes to preheat. Depending on the model of your air fryer, this process can take around 5 minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your pork tenderloin by trimming any excess fat or silver skin.
During the preheating process, the heating elements inside the air fryer will reach the set temperature. This ensures that when you place your pork tenderloin in the air fryer, it immediately starts cooking at the desired temperature. Preheating to 400°F is especially important when cooking pork to ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature. This temperature range kills any harmful bacteria, ensuring your pork is safe to consume.
Once the preheating is complete, you'll want to place your pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket. It's important to ensure that the tenderloin lays flat and straight in the basket for even cooking. Depending on the size of your tenderloin, you might need to adjust the placement to ensure it doesn't touch the walls or lid of the air fryer, which could impact even cooking.
After placing the tenderloin in the air fryer, you can set the timer for the cooking time recommended in your recipe. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your tenderloin, so it's always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked, juicy pork tenderloin.
In summary, preheating your air fryer to 400°F is a crucial step in the cooking process. It ensures even and efficient cooking, helps maintain food safety, and sets the stage for a delicious, juicy pork tenderloin. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering meal with your air fryer!
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Prepare a spice rub
Preparing a spice rub for your pork tenderloin is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. Firstly, get a bowl that is large enough to fit your pork tenderloin. Then, add all your chosen spices to the bowl and mix them until they are well combined. You can adjust the spices according to your taste preferences and what you have available.
A basic spice rub for pork tenderloin typically includes salt and pepper as base seasonings. You can then add dried spices such as garlic powder, oregano, cumin, coriander, and thyme to create a flavourful dry rub. For a sweet and smoky taste, include brown sugar, which will also help with the browning of the exterior. If you want to add some heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or ground black pepper is a great addition.
Once your dry rub is mixed, you can add the pork tenderloin to the bowl. Using tongs, toss the pork tenderloin in the mixture until it is fully coated. Make sure to get the rub onto all areas of the meat. You can also sprinkle the rub over the tenderloin and then use your hands to rub it into the meat, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well.
After your pork tenderloin is coated, you can cook it immediately in your air fryer. However, if you want to enhance the flavour even more, you can let the dry rub sit on the pork overnight or for 2-3 days in advance. Simply season your pork, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.
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Cook for 15-25 minutes
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a juicy and tender meal. The cooking time will depend on the weight and thickness of the meat, as well as your preferred level of doneness. For a single piece of pork tenderloin, the cooking time will typically range from 15 to 25 minutes at temperatures between 325°F and 400°F (165°C to 200°C).
For a single pork tenderloin weighing around 1 lb, it is recommended to cook it in the air fryer for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the meat is cooked evenly and thoroughly. If you prefer your meat extra tender, you can cook it at a lower temperature of 225°F for a longer time.
If you are cooking multiple pieces of pork tenderloin, it is important to ensure that they are not crowded in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches or slice them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking. The total cooking time will depend on the number of pieces and the size of your air fryer.
When cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer, it is crucial to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. The target temperature for fully cooked pork is 145°F (63°C) for juicy and tender results. Remove the pork from the air fryer when it reaches this temperature and let it rest for 3 to 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and flavourful meat.
Additionally, you can coat the pork tenderloin with olive oil and a spice rub before cooking to add flavour and create a crispy crust. Common spices used include salt, pepper, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and dried thyme. The olive oil and spice rub can be applied directly to the meat or mixed together to form a paste.
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Rest for 5 minutes
So, you've cooked your pork tenderloin in the air fryer—now what? Well, the key to a juicy cut of meat is to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This gives the juices inside the meat time to redistribute and be reabsorbed, making for a more tender and flavoursome eating experience.
Resting the meat also gives you time to finish off any sides you might be serving with your pork tenderloin. Air fryer baked potatoes are always a popular choice, as are some greens—sauteed brussels sprouts or broccolini are sure to be a hit with the family. If you're serving up your tenderloin as part of a holiday feast, you might want to go for something a little more hearty, like a butternut squash casserole or mashed cauliflower.
While your tenderloin is resting, it's also a good idea to check the internal temperature of the meat with a meat thermometer. Pork tenderloin is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If the meat hasn't reached this temperature after resting, you can always put it back in the air fryer for a few more minutes.
Finally, when it comes to slicing your tenderloin, be sure to cut against the grain. This will help ensure that the meat is tender and not tough or chewy. And there you have it—juicy, flavourful, and perfectly cooked pork tenderloin straight from your air fryer!
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Reheat in the air fryer
To reheat your pork tenderloin, simply place the desired number of portions in the air fryer basket and heat for 20-30 seconds. You can also reheat frozen pork tenderloin in the air fryer, but be sure to thaw the meat completely before seasoning it.
Leftovers
Leftover pork tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To freeze, place the cooked and cooled tenderloin in a ziplock bag and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Reheating from frozen
To reheat frozen pork tenderloin, first, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then place the desired number of portions in the air fryer basket and heat for 20-30 seconds or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
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Frequently asked questions
Cooking times vary depending on the size of the tenderloin and the air fryer being used. Most recipes recommend cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer for 15-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
The pork tenderloin should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). You can check this by using a meat thermometer.
It is recommended to let the pork tenderloin rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps to keep the meat juicy.
