Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

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Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin! This lean cut of meat cooks up beautifully in the air fryer, resulting in a juicy, flavorful center with a crispy, golden brown crust. With minimal prep and quick cook time, Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin is a weeknight dinner hero, ideal for busy schedules and discerning palates.

Ingredients

  • 1 pork tenderloin (1-1.5 lbs)
  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional seasonings: paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, thyme, chili powder (choose your favorites!)

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork Tenderloin:

  • Take the pork tenderloin out of the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels.
  • Trim off any excess fat or silver skin (the thin white membrane) if needed.

2. Season the Pork:

  • In a small bowl, combine your desired seasonings. Here are some common options:
  • Simple: Salt, pepper, garlic powder
  • Sweet & savory: Salt, pepper, paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, thyme
  • Spicy: Salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder
  • Rub the olive oil all over the pork tenderloin.
  • Generously sprinkle the spice mixture onto the pork, pressing it in to adhere.

3. Cook the Pork Tenderloin:

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
  • Carefully place the pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket, making sure it’s not touching the sides.
  • Air fry the pork tenderloin for 20-22 minutes, depending on its size.
  • For smaller tenderloins (around 1 lb), cook for 20 minutes.
  • For larger tenderloins (around 1.5 lbs), cook for 22 minutes.

4. Check for Doneness:

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the pork. It should reach 145°F for safe consumption.

5. Rest and Serve:

  • Once cooked through, carefully remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and transfer it to a cutting board.
  • Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork.

Tips

  • You can add a drizzle of your favorite sauce or glaze during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
  • If your air fryer basket is small, you may need to cut the pork tenderloin in half to fit comfortably.
  • The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your pork tenderloin and the specific model of your air fryer.

Enjoy your delicious air-fried pork tenderloin!

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