Air fryer pork tenderloin is a quick and delicious meal that delivers juicy, tender meat with a flavorful crust. This recipe combines a simple spice rub with the efficiency of an air fryer to create a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pork tenderloin (approximately 1.25 to 1.75 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne powder (optional)
• ½ tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. Prepare the Spice Rub: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, ground mustard, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne powder (if using).
2. Trim and Season the Pork: Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the pork tenderloin. Coat the tenderloin with olive oil, then evenly apply the spice rub, pressing it onto the meat to adhere.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned tenderloin in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 20-22 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 198
• Protein: 29g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 880mg

Why Air Fryers are Perfect for Cooking Pork Tenderloin

Air fryers are designed to circulate hot air evenly around the food, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. For pork tenderloin, this means a golden-brown crust packed with flavor without the need for excessive oil. Traditional methods like roasting or pan-frying can take longer and require more monitoring to ensure even cooking. With an air fryer, you get consistent results in a fraction of the time, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.

Another advantage of using an air fryer is the minimal cleanup required. Unlike stovetop cooking, where splatters and spills are common, air fryers keep everything contained within the basket. This is a huge plus for anyone looking to save time and effort in the kitchen.

Health Benefits of Cooking with an Air Fryer

One of the main reasons people gravitate toward air fryers is their ability to replicate the texture of fried foods without the unhealthy fats. Pork tenderloin is already a lean cut of meat, and when cooked in an air fryer, it retains its natural juiciness without the need for added oils or fats. This means you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without compromising your dietary goals.

Additionally, air frying preserves more nutrients compared to deep-frying or pan-frying. The shorter cooking time and controlled temperature ensure that the pork retains its essential vitamins and minerals. For those on a low-carb or keto diet, this recipe is a perfect fit, as it is high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

Flavor Profile and Customization

The beauty of air fryer pork tenderloin lies in its adaptability. While the spice rub in this recipe combines the smoky sweetness of paprika with a hint of heat from cayenne, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Want a more herbaceous flavor? Add dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Prefer a sweeter profile? Increase the brown sugar or drizzle the tenderloin with honey after cooking.

The versatility doesn’t stop at the spice rub. Air fryer pork tenderloin pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. From creamy mashed potatoes to a refreshing arugula salad or roasted vegetables, this dish complements almost anything. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a tangy mustard sauce or a fruity glaze like apple or cranberry.

Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Achieving the perfect pork tenderloin in an air fryer requires a few key considerations:

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: Pork tenderloin is best cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures the meat is tender and juicy without being undercooked. A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking and guarantees consistent results.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking from the start. This step is particularly important for achieving a crisp crust on the pork.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air needs to circulate freely around the tenderloin for even cooking. If your air fryer is on the smaller side, consider cutting the tenderloin in half or cooking in batches.
4. Rest the Meat: Letting the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.
5. Trim Excess Fat: While a little fat can add flavor, too much can cause uneven cooking. Trimming the tenderloin ensures a consistent texture and appearance.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer pork tenderloin is as versatile in presentation as it is in preparation. For a rustic family-style meal, slice the tenderloin into thick medallions and serve on a wooden board alongside hearty sides like roasted sweet potatoes or green beans. For a more elegant presentation, consider slicing the pork thinly and drizzling it with a balsamic reduction or chimichurri sauce.

This dish is also perfect for meal prep. Cook the tenderloin, slice it into portions, and store it in airtight containers with your favorite sides. It reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays.

Conclusion

Air fryer pork tenderloin is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to combine flavor, health, and convenience. This dish takes full advantage of the air fryer’s capabilities, delivering perfectly cooked pork with minimal effort. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual dinners to special celebrations.

By using an air fryer, you not only save time and effort but also create a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a foolproof way to impress your family and friends. So, fire up your air fryer, gather your favorite spices, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of air fryer pork tenderloin.