Marianne Martinez
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a delicious, juicy, and tender piece of meat on the table in under 30 minutes. With just 5 minutes of prep and about 25 minutes of cooking time, you can have a tasty meal that the whole family will love. The key to a perfect pork tenderloin is in the seasoning and the cooking temperature—a combination of brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper will give your meat a flavourful crust, while cooking it at 400°F for 10–22 minutes will ensure a moist interior.
How to cook a pork tenderloin in an air fryer oven
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking time | 15-25 minutes |
| Oven temperature | 350°F-400°F |
| Resting time | 5 minutes |
| Seasonings | Salt, pepper, brown sugar, paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, honey, mustard |
| Internal temperature | 145°F |
| Storage | Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right cut of meat
When selecting your pork tenderloin, look for a cut that is between 1 and 1.5 pounds. This is the ideal size for air frying, as it will fit nicely in the air fryer basket and cook evenly. If you are cooking for a larger group, you can always cook two tenderloins at the same time or opt for a slightly larger cut of meat, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
It is also important to consider the quality of the meat. Look for a tenderloin that has a nice, even colour and firm texture. Avoid any cuts with excess fat or silver skin, as this can affect the cooking process and the overall appearance of the dish. A good butcher or meat counter should be able to trim the tenderloin for you if needed.
Finally, for the best results, it is recommended to bring the pork tenderloin to room temperature before placing it in the air fryer. This will help ensure even cooking, so the meat is juicy and tender throughout.
By choosing the right cut of meat and following these simple tips, you'll be well on your way to a delicious air fryer pork tenderloin meal that your family and friends will love.
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Preparing the pork
Next, you will need to prepare a spice rub for the pork. There are many different combinations of spices and herbs that you can use, depending on your taste preferences. For example, you can use a mixture of salt, brown sugar, pepper, thyme, paprika, and garlic powder. Alternatively, you may wish to omit the sugar and instead use a mixture of salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, and pepper, with a dash of cayenne for heat. You could also add dried oregano, black pepper, and crushed red pepper to this mixture.
Once you have prepared your chosen spice rub, rub the pork tenderloin with oil and then coat it with the spice mixture. Make sure the spice mixture is pressed in and adheres to the meat.
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Cooking the pork
To start, remove any silver skin from the pork tenderloin, as this can become tough after cooking. Pat the meat dry and cut it in half so that it fits into the air fryer basket. The next step is to create a flavorful rub for the pork. A simple mixture of salt, pepper, and brown sugar will help promote browning, but you can also add dried thyme, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and other spices to create a more complex flavor profile. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect blend! Coat the tenderloin with a small amount of olive oil and then rub the spice mixture all over the meat, pressing it in to help it adhere.
Now it's time to cook the pork! Preheat your air fryer to between 380°F and 400°F for 5 minutes. Place the tenderloin in the basket, making sure there is space between the pieces for even cooking. For a 1-pound tenderloin, cook 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. For larger tenderloins, cook for a few minutes longer. It is important to flip the meat halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning and cooking.
Once the pork is cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even juicier. Then, simply slice and serve!
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Resting the pork
While the pork is resting, you can prepare any side dishes or sauces to accompany the meal. Some suggested sides that pair well with pork tenderloin include roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, baby potatoes, or sweet potatoes. You can also serve it with a salad or mashed cauliflower. If you prefer a heartier meal, options like butternut squash casserole or garlic bread can be considered.
The resting stage is crucial as it ensures the meat reaches its optimal taste and texture. This step allows the juices to settle and redistribute, preventing them from running out of the meat when sliced. It also gives the meat time to relax, making it more tender and easier to cut. The resting period ensures that the pork tenderloin remains moist, flavourful, and juicy.
Additionally, the resting time provides an opportunity to check the internal temperature of the pork again. It is important to ensure that the meat has reached a safe temperature for consumption. Using an instant-read thermometer, check that the center of the pork tenderloin registers at least 145°F. This temperature indicates that the meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
In summary, resting the pork tenderloin after air frying is a key step that should not be skipped. It ensures the meat reaches its optimal flavour, texture, and juiciness. By allowing the juices to redistribute and giving the meat time to relax, the pork will be more tender and flavourful. This step, along with proper seasoning and cooking techniques, will result in a delicious and juicy pork tenderloin that your family and guests will surely enjoy.
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Storing and reheating the pork
Storing your leftover pork tenderloin is easy. Simply place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it. Place the cooked and cooled tenderloin in a ziplock bag and store it in the freezer for up to six months.
When you're ready to enjoy your tenderloin again, there are several ways to reheat it without drying it out. The simplest method is to use a microwave. Place your pork tenderloin slices on a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel or a microwave splatter cover. Heat in short bursts of 10-20 seconds on a medium power setting to avoid overcooking. You can also reheat your pork in the oven. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Wrap your pork slices in foil and place them on a baking sheet. Add a splash of water, broth, butter, or barbecue sauce to keep the meat moist. Heat for 5-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
If you're looking for a quick and flavorful option, a frying pan is a great choice. Heat some olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for about 30 seconds on each side, then lower the heat and cover the pan. Let the meat heat through for another 2-3 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
You can also reheat your pork tenderloin in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to around 350°F (180°C). Wrap the pork in aluminum foil and add a bit of broth or butter for moisture. Reheat for a few minutes until the meat reaches the desired temperature.
Remember, when reheating pork tenderloin, it's important to ensure that the meat reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which is the safe temperature for pork.
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Frequently asked questions
It takes between 15 and 25 minutes to cook a pork tenderloin in an air fryer. The cooking time depends on the size and thickness of the tenderloin.
The temperature depends on the air fryer model and the size of the tenderloin. Most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer to 380°F–400°F and cooking at 325°F–400°F.
To make pork tenderloin taste good, season it with salt, pepper, brown sugar, paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. You can also add olive oil to help the spices stick to the meat.
Place leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. To store it for longer, place the cooked and cooled tenderloin in a ziplock bag and freeze it for up to six months.
