As someone who loves finding quick and delicious dinner solutions, this Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin has quickly become one of my go-to recipes. The air fryer makes the magic happen—delivering juicy, perfectly cooked pork with a beautiful crust in just a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. It’s not just a timesaver; it’s a flavor-packed delight that pairs effortlessly with just about any side dish.
When I first tried this recipe, I couldn’t believe how easy it was. The pork tenderloin comes out tender, moist, and bursting with savory seasonings, all thanks to the air fryer’s even cooking and golden touch. It’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish. Pork tenderloin is lean, tender, and cooks quickly, making it an excellent protein choice for the air fryer. Look for one that’s about 1 to 1.5 pounds for even cooking.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps the seasoning stick to the pork while also promoting a golden crust during cooking.
Garlic Powder: This adds a savory depth to the seasoning blend, infusing the pork with subtle garlicky goodness.
Smoked Paprika: The smoky, slightly sweet flavor of paprika takes this dish to the next level, adding a touch of warmth and color.
Salt and Pepper: These classic seasonings enhance the natural flavor of the pork and ensure every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Dried Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a fragrant, earthy note that complements the pork beautifully.
Honey (Optional): If you like a touch of sweetness, a light glaze of honey at the end gives the pork a gorgeous caramelized finish.
Ingredients List
- 1 pork tenderloin (1–1.5 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Start by patting the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step helps the seasoning stick better and creates a nice crust.
Step 2: Season the Pork
Rub the pork tenderloin with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning over the surface. Massage the seasonings into the meat to ensure full coverage.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures the pork starts cooking immediately and results in even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Pork Tenderloin
Place the seasoned pork tenderloin into the air fryer basket, making sure it’s not touching the sides for proper airflow. Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pork from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Trim the Tenderloin: If your pork tenderloin has any silver skin (a tough, shiny membrane), remove it with a sharp knife before seasoning. This prevents chewiness.
- Don’t Skip Preheating: Preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking and helps create a delicious crust.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: Overcooking can dry out pork tenderloin. Use a meat thermometer to pull it out at exactly 145°F.
- Rest the Meat: Always let the pork rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
- Add a Glaze: For extra flavor, brush the pork with honey or your favorite barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin?
A: Pork loin is larger and thicker than pork tenderloin, so it will take longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time and use a thermometer to check doneness.
Q: How do I know when the pork is cooked?
A: Pork is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Q: Can I marinate the pork beforehand?
A: Absolutely! A marinade with olive oil, garlic, and herbs adds even more flavor. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Q: What sides go well with Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin?
A: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a simple rice pilaf pair wonderfully with this dish.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Yes, store leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer.