Air-Fried Pork Loin: Cooking Time And Tips

Cooking pork loin in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a delicious, juicy roast with a nice brown crust. The high heat of the air fryer means that the pork loin cooks faster and has less time to dry out. The cooking time depends on the weight of the pork loin, but generally, it should be cooked for 12-14 minutes per pound, or 35-45 minutes in total. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F for medium doneness, and up to 160°F for well-done pork.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in cooking pork loin, as it ensures the meat spends the longest time at the highest temperature, resulting in a perfect crust and juicy interior. The ideal temperature to preheat your air fryer to is between 360°F and 400°F.

For a 360°F preheat, five minutes is sufficient. You can then place the pork loin in the air fryer and cook for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F to 160°F. This will depend on the weight of your pork loin, so it's a good idea to use a meat thermometer to monitor this.

If you're preheating your air fryer to 400°F, you should also give it around five minutes to heat up. Once preheated, keep the temperature at 400°F, select the air fry setting, and set the timer for 20 to 22 minutes. This will give you a juicy, tender pork loin with an internal temperature of 145°F.

It's worth noting that the size of your pork loin will impact the cooking time. A smaller roast will take 30 to 40 minutes at 370°F, while a larger roast will take 40 to 60 minutes. A good rule of thumb is to allow 12 to 14 minutes of cooking time per pound of pork loin.

Remember, the minimum safe temperature for pork is 145°F, but if you prefer your meat more well-done, you can cook it to 155°F or 160°F. Always use a meat thermometer to check that your pork loin has reached the desired internal temperature before removing it from the air fryer.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for pork loin in an air fryer depend on the weight of the meat and the desired doneness. It's important to preheat your air fryer before cooking the pork to get a nice seared crust.

For a 3-pound pork loin roast, cook at 370°F for 35-45 minutes. Start testing the temperature at around 35 minutes, and continue cooking if needed until the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F for medium doneness. If you prefer your pork more well-done, you can cook it to an internal temperature of 155°F.

For a smaller roast (under 3 pounds), cook for 30-40 minutes, and for a larger roast, cook for 40-60 minutes. If the outside of the roast starts to get too dark, you can turn down the temperature for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.

If you're cooking a pork tenderloin, which is a different cut of meat from pork loin, the cooking time and temperature will be different. Pork tenderloin is a thinner and smaller cut of meat, so it will cook faster than pork loin. Set your air fryer to 400°F and preheat for 5 minutes. Once preheated, keep the temperature at 400°F, select the air fry setting, and set the time for 20-22 minutes for a pork tenderloin weighing between 1-1.5 pounds. The internal temperature should reach 145°F when measured at the center of the meat.

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the model and size of your air fryer, so it's always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer's instructions and adjust the time and temperature as needed. Additionally, using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat is the best way to ensure it's cooked to your desired doneness.

Resting the meat

During the resting time, the juices that have accumulated on the cutting board can be used to make a simple gravy. For example, you can add 1 cup of chicken broth to a saucepan, along with any remaining seasoning rub and simmer for about 5 minutes. You can also add in any juices that have collected on the plate during the resting time, as well as any juices that may be in the air fryer pan.

The resting time is also a good opportunity to prepare any side dishes that you may be serving with the pork loin. Some suggested sides include roasted vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, and potatoes, as well as garlic bread.

If you are cooking pork tenderloin, which is a different cut of meat from pork loin, the resting time is also important. Pork tenderloin is a leaner cut of meat and can dry out more quickly, so it is important to follow the recommended resting time of 3-5 minutes.

In summary, resting the meat after cooking is crucial to ensuring juicy and tender pork loin or pork tenderloin. Use the resting time to make a simple gravy and prepare any side dishes for a complete and delicious meal.

Reheating leftovers

To cook pork loin in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 370°F or 400°F. Then, cook the pork for 12-14 minutes per pound, or 35-40 minutes in total, flipping it once to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature of the pork should be 145°F for medium doneness, and 155°F if you prefer your meat with no pink.

To reheat leftover pork loin, first slice the meat into smaller, evenly-sized pieces. This will help the meat cook evenly when reheated. Place the slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the basket. Reheat at 350°F-370°F for 3-8 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Check the internal temperature of the pork with a meat thermometer—it should be 145°F.

Leftover pork loin can also be reheated in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F. Season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs, if desired. Place on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Bake for 10-20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. To reheat in the microwave, place the pork on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on 50% power for 2-3 minutes per serving, checking frequently.

Seasoning and spices

There are a variety of seasoning options to choose from when preparing pork loin in an air fryer. One popular option is to use a dry rub. This involves coating the pork loin with a mixture of spices and herbs before placing it in the air fryer. A dry rub not only adds flavour but also helps to form a crispy, golden crust on the outside of the meat. Common spices used in a dry rub for pork loin include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and brown sugar. You can also add a small amount of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. These spices are whisked together in a small bowl and then rubbed onto the surface of the pork loin.

Another option is to create a wet rub or marinade for your pork loin. This involves combining spices and herbs with liquids such as olive oil, mustard, or honey. Olive oil, in particular, helps the seasoning stick to the meat and traps the juices, resulting in even juicier pork. You can also experiment with other liquids like soy sauce or lemon juice to add extra flavour dimensions. Apply the wet rub generously to the pork loin, ensuring it is well coated, before placing it in the air fryer.

Additionally, you can try a combination of both dry and wet rubs. Start by coating the pork loin with a dry rub, and then apply a thin layer of olive oil or another preferred oil to help the spices adhere to the meat and promote browning. This method ensures that the flavours of the spices are well-absorbed into the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavourful roast.

When preparing your pork loin, don't forget to trim away any excess fat or silver skin from the outside of the meat. This will help ensure even cooking and a crispier exterior. Once you've seasoned the pork loin to your liking, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually between 360°F and 400°F, and cook according to the weight and size of your roast.

Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to find your perfect flavour combination for your air-fried pork loin!

Frequently asked questions