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October 27, 2024
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and tender piece of meat. The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to cook the pork, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. But how long should you cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer?
The cooking time for pork tenderloin in an air fryer can vary depending on the size and thickness of the meat. As a general rule, it is recommended to cook pork tenderloin at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. However, it is important to always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
Before cooking the pork tenderloin in the air fryer, it is advisable to season the meat with your favorite spices and flavors. You can marinate the tenderloin with a combination of herbs, garlic, and olive oil, or simply season it with salt and pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, you can also brush the tenderloin with a glaze or sauce, such as a honey mustard or barbecue sauce.
Once the pork tenderloin is seasoned, preheat the air fryer to the recommended temperature. Place the tenderloin in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between the pieces for proper air circulation. Cook the pork for the recommended time, flipping it halfway through to ensure even cooking. Once the pork reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Cook Pork Tenderloin in Air Fryer: Step-by-Step Guide
Pork Tenderloin
Amazon.com
Pork tenderloin is a delicious and lean cut of meat that can be easily cooked in an air fryer. The air fryer provides a quick and convenient way to cook pork tenderloin, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer:
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin (approximately 1-1.5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Trim any excess fat from the pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork tenderloin.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned pork tenderloin and massage it into the meat.
- Place the pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between the pieces for proper airflow.
- Cook the pork tenderloin in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Slice the cooked pork tenderloin into thick slices and serve it with your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy your delicious and perfectly cooked pork tenderloin made in the air fryer! This cooking method ensures a tender and juicy result with a crispy exterior.
Preparing the Pork Tenderloin
Before cooking the pork tenderloin in the air fryer, there are a few steps you need to take for the best results:
- Start by trimming any excess fat off the pork tenderloin. This will help prevent the meat from becoming too greasy during cooking.
- Next, season the pork tenderloin with your desired spices and seasonings. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also marinate the pork tenderloin in a mixture of your favorite marinade or sauce for added flavor.
- Allow the pork tenderloin to marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If time allows, marinating the pork tenderloin overnight in the refrigerator can result in even more flavorful results.
- When you are ready to cook the pork tenderloin, preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature. The exact temperature and cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the pork tenderloin, as well as the specific air fryer model you are using.
- Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned pork tenderloin into the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave space between the pieces to allow for proper air circulation.
Now that the pork tenderloin is prepared, you are ready to cook it in the air fryer. Follow the recommended cooking time and temperature guidelines for pork tenderloin in your specific air fryer model, and be sure to check the internal temperature of the meat using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the recommended safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for pork.
Seasoning the Pork Tenderloin
Before cooking the pork tenderloin in the air fryer, it’s important to season it well to enhance its flavors. Here are some delicious seasoning options:
- Basic Seasoning: Combine salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin.
- Herb Seasoning: Mix dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano with salt and pepper. Coat the pork tenderloin evenly with the herb mixture.
- Sweet and Spicy Seasoning: Create a rub using brown sugar, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This combination will add a sweet and spicy kick to the pork tenderloin.
- Asian-Inspired Seasoning: Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and a hint of honey. Marinate the pork tenderloin in this mixture for a few hours before air frying.
Whichever seasoning you choose, make sure to rub it all over the pork tenderloin to ensure even distribution of flavors. Let the seasoned pork tenderloin sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer, it is important to preheat the appliance. Preheating the air fryer helps to ensure that the pork tenderloin will cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior.
To preheat the air fryer, follow these steps:
- Plug in the air fryer and set the temperature to the desired cooking temperature (e.g., 375°F or 190°C).
- Allow the air fryer to preheat for approximately 3-5 minutes. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific preheating time.
Once the air fryer is preheated, you can proceed to cook the pork tenderloin according to your preferred recipe.
Cooking the Pork Tenderloin
To cook the pork tenderloin in an air fryer, follow these simple steps:
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Any additional seasonings or marinades you prefer
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
-
Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings or marinades.
Ensure the tenderloin is evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket.
- Cook the tenderloin for 20 minutes, flipping it halfway through the cooking time.
- Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer.
It should read at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure the pork is cooked thoroughly. - If the internal temperature is not yet reached, continue cooking for another 5 minutes and check again.
- Once the pork tenderloin has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the pork tenderloin into desired portions and serve.
Tips:
For added flavor, marinate the pork tenderloin in your favorite sauce or seasoning overnight before cooking it in the air fryer.
| Weight | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 1 lb (450 g) | 20 minutes |
| 1.5 lb (680 g) | 25 minutes |
| 2 lb (900 g) | 30 minutes |
Checking the Internal Temperature
It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin to ensure it’s cooked to the desired doneness. This will help you avoid undercooked or overcooked meat.
Step 1: Use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin, avoiding any bones.
Step 2: The pork tenderloin should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare and 160°F (71°C) for medium. The meat will continue to cook and the temperature will rise slightly after it’s removed from the air fryer.
Step 3: If the pork tenderloin hasn’t reached the desired temperature, return it to the air fryer and continue cooking in intervals of 2-3 minutes until the desired temperature is reached.
Note: It’s important to always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of pork or any other meat to ensure it’s safe to eat. This will help you avoid any health risks associated with undercooked meat.
Resting and Serving the Pork Tenderloin
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender.
Pro tip: Don’t skip this step as it is crucial for ensuring a juicy and flavorful pork tenderloin.
Slicing the Pork Tenderloin
After the resting time, transfer the pork tenderloin to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the tenderloin across the grain into thin, even slices.
Pro tip: Slicing the pork against the grain helps to ensure that each bite is tender and easy to chew.
Niman Ranch, Pork Tenderloin, 15 oz
Amazon.com
Serving the Pork Tenderloin
Arrange the sliced pork tenderloin on a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for additional flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro tip: Pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Q&A
What is the cooking time for pork tenderloin in an air fryer?
The cooking time for pork tenderloin in an air fryer is typically around 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Should I preheat the air fryer before cooking pork tenderloin?
Yes, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer before cooking pork tenderloin. Preheating helps to ensure even cooking and crispness.
How do I know when pork tenderloin is done cooking in an air fryer?
You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to be considered fully cooked.
Can I marinate the pork tenderloin before cooking it in an air fryer?
Yes, you can marinate the pork tenderloin before cooking it in an air fryer. Marinating can add flavour and help tenderize the meat. Just make sure to pat it dry before placing it in the air fryer.
Can I cook frozen pork tenderloin in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen pork tenderloin in an air fryer. However, the cooking time will be longer. It is recommended to thaw the tenderloin before cooking for more even results.
How long should I cook pork tenderloin in my air fryer?
In general, pork tenderloin should be cooked in an air fryer for about 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on the thickness of the meat.