Air-Fryer Pork Loin: Perfectly Rotisseried In Just 30 Minutes

Cooking pork loin in an air fryer is a convenient and tasty way to prepare this meat. The air fryer seals in the juices, making the pork tender and flavourful. The cooking time will depend on the weight of the pork loin, but it should be cooked for at least 20 minutes at 360-400°F. The internal temperature should be 145°F.

Choosing the right cut of pork

Type of Pork Cut

The two most common types of pork cuts used in air frying are pork tenderloin and pork loin roast. Pork tenderloin is a lean and tender piece of meat that works well with various seasoning mixtures. It is a relatively smaller cut compared to pork loin roast. Pork loin roast, on the other hand, is a larger cut of meat that boneless pork chops are cut from. It is perfect for family dinners and is quite affordable.

Thickness of Pork Chops

When selecting pork chops, opt for thicker cuts between 1 to 2 inches in thickness. Thicker chops, such as centre-cut, bone-in chops, provide a beautiful char on all sides when cooked in the air fryer. Thin pork chops tend to cook too quickly and may not develop the desired char.

Bone-in vs. Boneless

Both bone-in and boneless pork chops can be used in the air fryer. Bone-in cuts have more flavour but take longer to cook. Boneless pork chops, on the other hand, are easier to eat and are less likely to dry out during cooking.

Size of the Air Fryer

Consider the size of your air fryer when choosing the cut of pork. For example, a 2-pound pork loin roast is ideal for most 5-6 quart air fryers. If you have a larger air fryer, you can accommodate larger roasts, but be mindful of the cooking time and internal temperature.

Freshness and Quality

Whenever possible, opt for fresh, high-quality pork from a reputable butcher. Fresh pork will have a brighter colour and will be more tender. Look for cuts with a good amount of marbling, which will add flavour and juiciness to your dish.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, the right cut of pork depends on your personal preference and the specific recipe you are following. Some recipes may call for a specific type or size of pork cut, so be sure to refer to the instructions.

Preparing the pork for cooking

Choosing the Right Cut of Pork:

Start by selecting a suitable pork loin roast, which is different from a pork tenderloin. A pork loin roast typically weighs between 2 to 2.5 pounds and is ideal for most 5-6 qt air fryers. Make sure the pork fits comfortably in your air fryer, leaving enough space around it. If you have a larger air fryer, you can opt for a bigger roast.

Trimming and Drying the Pork:

Remove the pork from its packaging and any netting or butchering twine. Use a sharp knife to trim away any excess fat, silver skin, or membrane from the surface of the meat. Pat the pork dry with paper towels or a kitchen cloth. This step is important as it helps the seasonings adhere better to the meat and promotes even cooking.

Scoring the Fat Cap (Optional):

If your pork loin has a fat cap (a thick layer of fat on one side), you can score it by making shallow cuts across the surface in a crisscross pattern. Be careful not to cut into the meat itself. Scoring helps render the fat and creates a more flavourousome, crispy exterior.

Seasoning the Pork:

Prepare a seasoning rub by mixing dry ingredients such as brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Coat the pork loin generously with the seasoning rub, making sure it covers all surfaces. Massage the rub into the meat, paying extra attention to the scored areas if you chose to make them.

Marinating (Optional):

While not necessary, marinating the pork loin can add extra flavour and moisture. You can use store-bought marinades or make your own by combining ingredients like olive oil, herbs, spices, and citrus juices. Place the pork loin in a resealable bag or container, add the marinade, and refrigerate for at least an hour or up to overnight. Remove the pork from the marinade and pat it dry again before placing it in the air fryer.

Preheating the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your air fryer is at the optimal temperature for cooking the pork loin and helps create a crispy exterior.

Now that your pork loin is prepared and your air fryer is preheated, you're ready to start cooking! Place the pork loin in the air fryer, following any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for rotisserie cooking. Remember to monitor the internal temperature of the pork loin to ensure it reaches the desired doneness. Enjoy your delicious, home-cooked rotisserie pork loin!

Cooking temperature and time

The cooking temperature and time for rotisserie pork loin in an air fryer depend on the weight of the meat and the desired internal temperature.

For a 1-pound pork tenderloin, cook at 400°F for 20-22 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. For a larger cut of pork tenderloin, which can be between 1.25 and 1.75 pounds, increase the cooking time to 20-25 minutes at the same temperature.

If you are cooking a pork loin roast, which is a larger cut of meat than a tenderloin, the cooking time and temperature will vary. For a 2-2.5 pound pork loin roast, preheat your air fryer to 360°F for 5 minutes, then cook the roast for 45-55 minutes. For larger roasts, increase the cooking time by approximately 20 minutes per pound. The target internal temperature for pork loin roast is 145°-160°F.

When cooking a rotisserie pork loin in an air fryer, it is important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat is cooked to the desired internal temperature. The probe of the thermometer should be inserted into the center of the meat halfway through the thickest part.

Additionally, it is recommended to let the pork rest for at least 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure moist and juicy meat.

Resting the meat

When resting the meat, it is best to transfer the pork loin to a plate or cutting board. Covering it loosely with foil will help retain heat while allowing the juices to settle. This technique ensures that the meat remains warm without drying out.

The ideal resting time for pork loin cooked in an air fryer can vary depending on the size of the cut and the desired doneness. For smaller cuts, 3-5 minutes is generally sufficient. However, for larger roasts, you may consider increasing the resting time. This allows the juices to redistribute more effectively throughout the meat, ensuring that it stays moist and tender.

Additionally, it is important to note that the pork loin will continue to cook during the resting period. This is because the internal temperature of the meat will continue to rise even after it has been removed from the air fryer. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the carry-over cooking when determining the ideal resting time for your pork loin.

Serving suggestions

There are many ways to serve a juicy and tender rotisserie pork loin cooked in an air fryer.

For a simple, yet elegant meal, serve the pork loin family-style on a large platter with a variety of side dishes and condiments. This allows everyone to dig in and choose their favourite accompaniments. Some side dish ideas include roasted vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, and a classic condiment like sweet and tangy applesauce. You could also serve the pork loin with a rich and savoury gravy made from the pan drippings.

If you're looking to elevate your meal, set the table with some simple yet elegant decorations, like fresh flowers or candles. Pair the meal with a nice bottle of wine or some refreshing cocktails. Don't forget to take photos and share the recipe with your friends—they'll be sure to thank you!

Leftovers can be just as delicious the next day. Simply store the pork loin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the air fryer again, preheating it to 350°F and cooking the pork loin for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave or oven.

For a quick and easy leftover meal, slice the pork loin thinly and serve it cold on top of a salad, or warm it up in the microwave or oven.

Frequently asked questions