How Long to Cook Pork Tenderloin in Air Fryer
Key Takeaways
- Pork tenderloin is a very lean, very tender piece of meat that is very different from pork loin. Its versatility, mild flavor, and cooking time make pork tenderloin ideal for lunch or dinner recipes.
- For the best results, first trim off the silver skin and season with Italian seasoning and garlic butter. Then, preheat the air fryer so that the meat cooks evenly.
- Cook the seasoned pork tenderloin in the air fryer, ideally at a hot temperature. Cook for around 25 minutes and flip halfway through. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for safe eating.
- Rest the meat after cooking, experiment with spice rubs, and monitor closely to avoid overcooking for a juicy and flavorful result.
- Enjoy pork tenderloin with flavorful accompaniments such as herbed roasted potatoes or fresh green beans. To make the meal even better, include zesty sauces or farm-fresh vegetables.
- Keeping your leftovers in an airtight container will help them stay fresh. Reheat them carefully, and get simple meals such as sandwiches or salads to minimize waste.
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F, depending on its size and thickness.
To maximize flavor, cook pork tenderloin to an internal temperature of 145°F, for the ultimate juicy and tender cut.
You can achieve perfectly cooked pork tenderloin with a crisp, brown crust even without adding additional oil by cooking in an air fryer.
Just don’t forget to let the meat rest for five minutes before you slice it to ensure maximum juiciness and flavor.
What Is Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a cut of meat that is both very lean and boneless. It’s cut from the long thin muscle that lies next to the pig’s spine. Naturally tender, with a mild flavor that absorbs seasoning well, it’s an all-time favorite. Weighing in at 1 to 1.5 pounds each, it’s a breeze to cook and serve.
Pork loin is wider and usually has a pronounced fat cap. Pork tenderloin, on the other hand, is smaller, thinner, and way more fragile. This contrast in thickness cooks tenderloin beautifully for faster cooking methods and dishes that call for less overall prep.
Pork’s versatility really starts to shine in the kitchen. You can roast, grill or, as many people like to do these days, air fry it. When it’s time for family dinners on the weekend or during the holidays, pork tenderloin is a crowd-pleaser both in flavor and practicality.
With an air fryer you can have it cooked in less than 30 minutes. This process not only makes it ideal for hectic weeknights, but guarantees mouthwateringly tender and flavorful results.
Preparing Pork Tenderloin for Cooking
It’s amazing how quickly an air fryer can cook pork tenderloin and leave it tender and juicy with all the flavor intact. To start, gather key ingredients for seasoning: Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, or try a rub of brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and pepper.
Remove the silver skin from the pork, as removing it will ensure more tenderness and flavor. Although marinating isn’t necessary, a simple garlic butter mixture will infuse each bite with an indulgent flavor.
Make sure your air fryer is preheated to 400°F so the pork can cook evenly and develop nice crisp edges. Make sure the tenderloin fits through the hole. You may need to cut it in half.
Roast until the internal temperature reaches 145°F, resting to an ultimate 149°F. My 18 minutes cook time was for five 1-pound tenderloins at $12.88. Serve with asparagus, glazed carrots, or pasta salad.
How Long to Cook Pork Tenderloin in Air Fryer
It’s super easy and fast to cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer. To get the greatest results possible, focus on getting the little things right. The most important thing to know, first and foremost, is that you need to preheat your air fryer to 400° F for five minutes.
This step ensures the pork tenderloin cooks evenly throughout from the very start. It gives you that perfect sear on the outside, keeping all those tasty juices inside. After it’s preheated, carefully add your pork tenderloin to the air fryer basket.
Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the pork tenderloin you have, and your air fryer model. Cook for eight minutes, then turn the tenderloin over to the other side. Continue cooking for 7 to 10 minutes more, turning to brown evenly.
For bigger cuts, you’ll need up to 22 minutes. If you go smaller cuts, it can be done in 20 minutes or so. Be sure to double check that your meat thermometer registers at least 145° F. This is the temperature recommended by the USDA to make pork safe to eat.
This step ensures that the pork is cooked perfectly safe but still juicy and tender. When you remove the meat from the air fryer, allow it to rest for five minutes. This gives the juices a chance to redistribute, and it makes slicing a whole lot easier.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Tenderloin
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is super fast and totally satisfying. For tenderloin with just the right amount of flavor and juiciness, don’t overlook the little things. A simple but crucial technique will put you on the right track to success each and every time.
After cooking, allow the tenderloin to rest for 5 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that the meat stays juicy and flavorful. Neglecting to do so may lead to a dry final product.
To enhance the flavor, rub the tenderloin with spices prior to cooking. Mix together equal parts salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika with a pinch of brown sugar for a savory-sweet rub.
Try out other flavor combinations such as a rosemary-garlic rub or sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. These purposeful additions take the flavor to a whole new level.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. For juicy, tender, and safe pork, cook to 145°F at the thickest point. If you want a stickier bark/roux, pull around 160°F max.
Typically, a 1.25-1.75 pound tenderloin cooks in 10-12 minutes. For nice even cooking, flip it over halfway through. Increase/decrease time based on the thickness and size of your meat.
Taking the pork out of the refrigerator to rest for 15 minutes before cooking helps the heat circulate evenly and eliminates cold spots.
Monitor closely, especially in the final minutes. Be sure to check often so it doesn’t dry out.
Serving Suggestions for Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin made in the air fryer is so versatile. You can make it the star of the meal by serving it with an enticing range of side dishes. I especially love serving roasted potatoes or carrots with pork tenderloin. Occasionally I’ll change it up with garlic mashed potatoes, which really round out the savory flavor and add that cozy side dish feel.
A simple baked sweet potato would bring the best natural sweetness to your meal. In the meantime, sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts will bring a bright, juicy crunch to the plate. For something lighter, kale or lentil salads are gorgeous complements, bringing freshness and a burst of contrasting color.
If you want to take the dish to the next level, cut the tenderloin into medallions for a beautiful presentation. Drizzling balsamic glaze or serving with a homemade sauce are all delicious ways to step up the flavors with very little effort. Seasonal vegetables change it up, or add in some quinoa and brown rice for heartiness.
It’s a meal that is sure to have the kids and adults all asking for seconds.
Storing and Reheating Pork Tenderloin
Storing and reheating pork tenderloin Proper storage and reheating methods are key to keeping pork tenderloin fresh and flavorful for future meals. Follow these easy steps to ensure your leftover pork stays juicy and succulent. This will help them stay safe to eat.
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the meat flavorful and prevents it from drying out or absorbing other smells. To make reheating easier, cut the pork tenderloin into smaller pieces before putting it away.
Pre-sliced pieces allow for faster and more even reheating, if you’re air frying or microwaving the meat. When you reheat it, you want to keep the meat tender and delicious while making sure that it’s safe to eat.
Pop the pork tenderloin slices into your air fryer and reheat for a couple minutes at a time until warmed through. Be sure to check that the inside gets to at least 165°F. If reheating in the microwave, make sure to set it to 50% power and reheat 2-3 minutes per side, flipping halfway through.
If you are using a whole pork tenderloin, you can give it a quick sear on direct heat (30 seconds max per side) and then finish on indirect heat. After you reheat it, let the pork rest for about 5-10 minutes to give the juices time to redistribute, which will help ensure a moist pork tenderloin.
There’s some good news with leftovers too—those can easily be turned into brand new meals. Throw the sliced pork tenderloin into a green salad or stack it in sandwiches for an easy, hearty meal.
These dynamic duos are perfect for maximizing your leftover meals and minimizing time in the kitchen during hectic weekdays.
Alternative Cooking Methods for Tenderloin
When you explore alternative ways to cook pork tenderloin, you’ll discover a whole world of textures and flavors distinct to each technique. Grilling, for instance, browns the surface area, giving smoky, crispy edges while cooking moisture inside the meat. This dish is a great compliment to summer cookouts.
Both methods work great with a straightforward dry rub or with flavors such as teriyaki or honey mustard marinade. Cooking tenderloin while roasting it in the oven guarantees even cooking. Add root vegetables or herbs such as rosemary and you take the taste several notches higher without a lot of work.
If you want that tender, fall-apart, meat-in-a-pot sort of goodness, slow-cooking is the best option. Whether you’re applying a balsamic glaze or barbecue sauce, cook it low and slow. This approach enhances its inherent sweetness and produces a melt-in-your-mouth effect.
Each method has different cooking times. For a 1-pound tenderloin, air fry at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. Grilling or oven roasting will add some time. If you’re concerned about undercooked meat, know that the internal temperature should always reach at least 145°F.
Add a tangy marinade like this balsamic wet rub and you’ll make any cooking method a 10-star dish.
Conclusion
Air fryer pork tenderloin is the way to go for a quick, easy and delicious dinner. The air fryer really helps to seal in that flavor and keeps the pork tenderloin nice and juicy. With just the right preparation and cook-time, you’ll be left with juicy, perfectly cooked pork that’s easy and effortless. Serve it alongside your favorite side dishes for a quick, wholesome meal that tastes fancy without requiring hours of work.
Keep in mind proper storage and reheating of leftovers will be important to avoiding tough meat. If you’re feeling adventurous, roasting or grilling will give you a whole new flavor experience as well.
To achieve the best cooking results, follow the process and tips provided above. We know you’ll love how simple and delicious dinner can be, so give it a shot. Once you start air frying pork, you’ll never go back!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I cook pork tenderloin in the air fryer?
Air fry pork tenderloin at 400°F for 18-20 minutes. Be sure to flip pork tenderloin in air fryer halfway through cooking for even cooking. Always check the internal temperature of pork with an instant-read meat thermometer to be sure it’s reached a safe 145°F.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer for pork tenderloin?
Do you need to preheat an air fryer for pork tenderloin? Preheating is essential for even cooking, and a tender, juicy pork tenderloin.
Should I marinate pork tenderloin before cooking in the air fryer?
Marinating is optional, but it definitely enhances the flavor. An easy marinade of olive oil, garlic, and herbs adds even more flavor and helps to maintain the tenderloins’ juicy texture.
How do I keep pork tenderloin from drying out in the air fryer?
Be careful not to overcook! Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness at an internal temperature of 145°F. Be sure to let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep the moisture in.
Can I cook frozen pork tenderloin in the air fryer?
Of course, you can still make it the traditional way, but it requires longer cooking time. Cook at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use an instant-read thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Do I need to season pork tenderloin before air frying?
Of course, seasoning has an impact on flavor. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder or your favorite seasoning mix. Sprinkle the dry rub over the pork tenderloin, covering it completely.
How should I store leftover pork tenderloin?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to retain tenderness.
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