Marianne Martinez
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get juicy and tender meat with a crispy, golden-brown crust. The high heat of the air fryer gives the pork a delicious crust without drying out the inside, and the short cooking time makes it a convenient weeknight dinner option. With a variety of seasoning options and the ability to cook from frozen, this recipe is a versatile and flavorful way to enjoy pork tenderloin.
Characteristics and Values Table for Cooking Tenderloin in an Air Fryer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preheat Air Fryer | 400°F for 5 minutes |
| Temperature | 400°F |
| Cooking Time | 20-22 minutes |
| Meat Weight | 1-1.5 lbs |
| Resting Time | 3-10 minutes |
| Meat Temperature | 145°F |
| Seasonings | Brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, pepper, cayenne, oregano, cinnamon, chili powder, dijon mustard, honey |
| Oil | Olive oil |
| Calories | 173-261 kcal |
| Reheating | 20-30 seconds in the microwave or air fryer |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right cut of pork tenderloin
First, it is important to understand the differences between pork loin and pork tenderloin. While the names sound similar, they are different cuts of meat with distinct characteristics and cooking requirements. Pork tenderloin, also known as pork filet, is a long, thin, and narrow boneless cut of meat that comes from the delicate muscle along the pig's spine or backbone. On the other hand, pork loin is a wider, thicker, and rectangular cut from the loin muscle in the pig's midsection, between the back fat and ribs. Pork tenderloin is leaner and more tender, making it ideal for quick-cooking methods like air frying.
When selecting pork tenderloin, look for a cut that is dark pink or red in colour, as this is characteristic of this particular type of pork. A typical pork tenderloin weighs around one pound and has a foot-long cylindrical shape with a width of about three inches. It has very little visible fat, which is why it is considered a lean cut of meat. Because of its leanness, pork tenderloin can dry out easily, so consider using a brine or marinade to keep it moist.
When purchasing pork tenderloin, opt for a cut that is fresh and has a uniform shape. Avoid any pieces with excessive fat or silver skin, as these can affect the cooking process and the overall quality of the dish. Choose a tenderloin that will fit comfortably in your air fryer to ensure even cooking. If the tenderloin is too large, you may need to slice it in half and cook it in batches.
Lastly, consider the quantity of pork tenderloin you will need. A general rule of thumb is to allow approximately four to six ounces of raw tenderloin per person, depending on appetite and the presence of side dishes. Keep in mind that pork tenderloin is often sold in packages of two or three pounds, so you may need to adjust the quantity purchased accordingly.
By following these guidelines, you'll be able to choose the right cut of pork tenderloin for your air fryer, ensuring a delicious and successful cooking experience.
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Preparing the meat and seasoning
Next, rub the tenderloin with olive oil. The olive oil will help the seasoning stick to the meat and promote even cooking. In a small bowl, mix your choice of seasonings. A simple combination of salt and pepper can be used, or you can experiment with various spices such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, ground mustard, dried oregano, chilli powder, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper for a kick of heat. You can also add sweeteners like brown sugar or honey to the mix for a unique flavour profile. Mix your chosen seasonings in a bowl, and then generously coat the tenderloin, ensuring it is evenly coated.
If you are cooking from frozen, you can skip the seasoning step initially as it will not stick to the frozen meat. You can, however, season the tenderloin halfway through the cooking process. Simply remove the tenderloin from the air fryer, rub with the seasoning, and then continue cooking for the remaining time.
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Cooking time and temperature
The cooking time and temperature for a tenderloin in an air fryer will depend on the size of the tenderloin and how well done you like your meat. Most pork tenderloins are usually between 1 and 1.5 lbs, with some as large as 1.25 lbs. For a 1-1.5 lb tenderloin, you should cook it for 20-22 minutes at 400°F. If your tenderloin is on the smaller side, go for 20 minutes; if it's larger, go for 22 minutes. If your tenderloin is 1.25 lbs, try cooking it for 21 minutes at 325°F.
If you are cooking a larger tenderloin, you may need to cut it in half to fit in the air fryer, or cook it for longer. For example, one source suggests cooking a 1 lb tenderloin for 15 minutes, but checking and turning it halfway through. Another suggests cooking a tenderloin for 8 minutes, rotating it, and then cooking it for another 7-10 minutes.
The key is to get an internal temperature of 145°F when measured at the center of the meat with an instant-read thermometer. One source suggests that the internal temperature should be at least 140°F, while another suggests that it should be at least 160°F. After cooking, let the tenderloin rest for 3-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
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Resting the meat
During the resting period, the juices that have been drawn to the surface of the meat during cooking will have time to be reabsorbed into the center of the meat. This helps to keep the meat moist and prevents it from drying out. It also gives the fibers of the meat time to relax, making the tenderloin more tender and easier to slice.
It is important to note that the resting time should be included in your total cooking time. So, if you are aiming for a medium-rare pork tenderloin with an internal temperature of 145°F, you should remove the meat from the air fryer when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F and let it rest until it reaches the final temperature. This ensures that the meat is cooked to your desired doneness while still being juicy and tender.
While the meat is resting, you can prepare any side dishes or sauces to serve with your pork tenderloin. Some popular side dishes include roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, vegetables, or salads. By letting the meat rest and preparing your sides, you will have a delicious and juicy pork tenderloin that your family and friends will surely enjoy!
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Reheating and storing
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 six months.
To reheat, thaw the tenderloin overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then, warm it in the air fryer for three to four minutes at 350°F. You can also reheat slices of pork tenderloin in the air fryer for a few minutes at a time, starting with three minutes at 400°F and adding a minute or two as needed. Alternatively, you can reheat portions in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds.
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Frequently asked questions
The air fryer should be set to 400°F.
It takes between 15 and 22 minutes to cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer.
You can use a meat thermometer to check that your pork tenderloin is cooked. The internal temperature should be 145°F.
