How To Cook Pork Tenderloin in Air Fryer

Enjoy succulent air fryer pork tenderloin, marinated in Greek yogurt and seasoned with homemade spice rub. A flavorful dish ready in minutes!

More Pork Recipes

• Grilled Pork Chop
• Smoked Rib Tips
• Grilled Pork Steak
• Chicken Fried Pork Steak

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea to liven up your weeknight meal rotation, look no further than one of my favorite recipes this simple yogurt-marinated air fryer pork tenderloin!

This easy marinade works its magic overnight, resulting in a flavorful and juicy cut of meat ready to be cooked with minimal effort. The air frying method makes it fast and offers an incredibly crispy outer crust without any extra fuss; all in less than half an hour!

Indulge in succulent air fryer pork tenderloin, marinated in tangy Greek yogurt and seasoned with a homemade spice rub. This flavorful dish boasts tender and juicy pork, perfectly complemented by the zesty marinade and aromatic spices.

With the convenience of the air fryer, you can enjoy a mouthwatering meal in no time. Whether as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion treat, this pork tenderloin is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe is sure to please. As far as pork tenderloin recipes go, with fresh ingredients like yogurt and herbs, some garlic, lime juice and zest plus lots of spices it guarantees intense flavor that will make your taste buds dance! Keep reading to see how it's done.

Beats and Eats (music to pair with Pork Tenderloin)

I tend to rock out on air fryer recipes. I use it for very specific things like when I need to be fast and easy. Rage Against The Machine's "Know Your Enemy" is on the box and played at high volume!

Key Flavor Ingredients To Elevate Pork Tenderloin

• Pork Tenderloin

For the Marinade

• Greek yogurt - adds moisture, tenderness, and a tangy flavor to pork marinade. Its creamy texture helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in juicy and succulent pork. Additionally, the acidity of Greek yogurt helps to break down the proteins in the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. The tangy flavor of the yogurt also adds a delicious depth to the marinade, enhancing the overall taste of the pork.
• Lime juice - adds brightness, tanginess, and a refreshing citrus flavor. Its acidity helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork. Additionally, the zesty flavor of lime juice adds a delicious contrast to the richness of the pork, enhancing its overall taste profile. Lime juice also helps to balance out the other flavors in the marinade, creating a well-rounded and harmonious blend of flavors.
• Soy sauce - provides savory depth, umami richness, and a hint of saltiness to pork marinade. Additionally, soy sauce helps to tenderize the meat and adds a rich brown color when grilled or cooked.
• Garlic Cloves - use garlic powder if no fresh cloves are on hand. Garlic adds pungent flavor and aromatic depth to pork marinade. It helps to infuse the meat with rich garlic flavor during the marinating process, resulting in a more flavorful and delicious dish.
• Fresh Ginger - provides a zesty, spicy, and aromatic kick to pork marinade. Additionally, it adds warmth and depth to the marinade, balancing the flavors of other ingredients. Overall, fresh ginger is a versatile ingredient that adds complexity and excitement to pork marinades, making them more vibrant and delicious.

For the Spice Rub

• Curry powder - adds a complex blend of spices and aromatics to a dry spice pork rub. Overall, curry powder is a versatile ingredient that adds depth, complexity, and a touch of exotic flair to dry spice pork rubs.
• Smoked Paprika - provides a rich, smoky flavor to dry spice pork rubs. Additionally, smoked paprika contributes a subtle sweetness and earthiness, balancing the other spices and herbs in the blend.
• Allspice - Its unique flavor combines hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, providing a rich and aromatic element to the rub. Additionally, allspice contributes a subtle sweetness and peppery undertone, enhancing the overall taste profile of the rub.
• Kosher Salt - enhances the flavor and texture of dry spice pork rubs. Its coarse texture helps it adhere to the surface of the pork, ensuring even seasoning throughout. Additionally, kosher salt enhances the natural flavors of the spices and herbs in the rub without overpowering them. It also helps to draw out moisture from the pork, resulting in a crispier exterior when cooked. Overall, kosher salt adds depth and balance to dry spice pork rubs, making them more flavorful and delicious.
• Cracked Black Pepper - adds a bold, spicy kick and depth of flavor to dry spice pork rubs. Additionally, black pepper contributes a subtle heat and peppery undertones, balancing the other spices and herbs in the blend.
• Cinnamon-brown sugar is an option as well if you prefer a bit more sweetness.
• Turmeric - adds earthiness, warmth, and vibrant color to dry spice pork rubs. Additionally, turmeric contributes a bright yellow hue, enhancing the visual appeal of the rub and the finished dish.

How to Air Fry Pork Tenderloin in the Air Fryer

Mix together dry spice rub ingredients together in a small bowl or ramekin.

Combine marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl with a whisk. Coat the entire tenderloin well with marinade. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees F.

While air fryer is heating up, sear the pork on both sides in a cast iron skillet.

Add pork roast to preheated air fryer and cook the pork for about 16 total minutes flipping once after 8 mins. Let the meat rest. For perfect pork tenderloin, you can use an instant read thermometer to check for doneness.

Serve the pork tenderloin slices.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Air fryer pork tenderloin is a delicious and versatile protein that can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to pair with sliced air fryer pork:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are a flavorful accompaniment to air fryer pork tenderloin.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with pork tenderloin. You can also try sweet potato mash for a healthier twist.
3. Rice or Quinoa: Cook up some rice or quinoa for a filling and nutritious side dish. You can flavor it with herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
4. Salad: A fresh and crisp salad is a great way to balance out the richness of the pork tenderloin. You can make a simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers or get creative with different greens, fruits, and nuts.
5. Fruit Salsa: Fruit salsas like mango or pineapple are a sweet and tangy complement to the savory pork tenderloin.
6. Grilled or Roasted Corn: Grilled or roasted corn is a delicious and easy side dish that pairs well with pork tenderloin. You can add some spices or herbs for extra flavor.

Overall, there are plenty of sides that can go well with air fryer pork tenderloin. Consider your personal tastes and preferences when choosing a side dish to accompany this delicious protein.

Cooking Tips, Considerations, and Substitutions

Here are some air fryer pork tenderloin cooking tips, considerations, and substitutions to keep in mind:

1. Use a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin. The safe temperature for pork is 145°F (63°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat for an accurate reading.
2. Season well: Season the pork tenderloin well with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like before cooking. This will add flavor to the meat.
3. Don't overcrowd the air fryer: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave enough space between the pieces of pork tenderloin to allow for even cooking and air circulation.
4. Flip halfway through: Flip the pork tenderloin halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and browning.
5. Let it rest: Let the pork tenderloin rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.
6. Consider marinating: You can marinate the pork tenderloin before cooking to add more flavor. Use your favorite marinade or try a simple combination of olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
7. Substitutions: You can substitute pork tenderloin with other cuts of pork such as pork chops or pork loin. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the meat.
8. Consider breading: You can bread the pork tenderloin before air frying for a crispy exterior. Use breadcrumbs, panko, or crushed cornflakes for a crunchy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Frying Pork In Air Fryer

What Temperature Should You Cook Pork Tenderloin at in the Air Fryer?

When cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer, the recommended temperature is 375°F (190°C). The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the pork tenderloin. As a general rule, you should cook pork tenderloin in the air fryer for about 18-20 minutes per pound.

It's important to note that the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. To ensure that the pork is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the meat. Let the pork rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing and serving.

How Do You Store Leftovers

To store leftover pork tenderloin, let it cool down to room temperature and place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date so that you can keep track of how long it has been stored.

How To Reheat Pork Tenderloin

To reheat the leftover pork tenderloin, there are a few options:

1. Microwave: Place the pork on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.
2. Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the pork on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat it for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the pork in the air fryer basket and heat it for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through.

Regardless of the method you choose, make sure to check the internal temperature of the pork using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Let the pork rest for a few minutes before serving.

How long do you cook a pork loin in an air fryer?

The cooking time for a pork loin in an air fryer will depend on the weight and thickness of the meat. As a general guideline, you can cook a pork loin in an air fryer for 15-20 minutes at 400°F per pound of meat.

To ensure that the pork loin is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Check the thickest part of the meat for an accurate reading.

It's also a good idea to let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.

Is it better to cook a pork tenderloin at 350 or 400?

The recommended temperature to cook a pork tenderloin is 375°F (190°C) in the oven. This temperature will allow the meat to cook evenly and retain its moisture, resulting in a tender and juicy pork tenderloin.

Cooking at a lower temperature such as 350°F (175°C) may take longer and the meat may not cook as evenly, while cooking at a higher temperature such as 400°F (200°C) may cause the outside of the pork tenderloin to overcook and become dry, while the inside is still undercooked.

Therefore, it's recommended to cook pork tenderloin at 375°F (190°C) for best results. However, cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the pork tenderloin, so it's important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat and ensure that it reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Can you air fry frozen tenderloin?

Yes, you can air fry frozen pork tenderloin, but it will take longer to cook than thawed pork tenderloin. Air frying frozen pork tenderloin can result in a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and tender.

To air fry frozen pork tenderloin, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket and cook for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

It's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the frozen pork tenderloin, so it's best to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Also, be aware that cooking frozen meat can cause excess moisture, so you may want to pat the pork tenderloin dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from steaming the meat.

What Special Equipment Is Needed to make this recipe?

Obviously, you'll need an air fryer. There are many types of air fryers and the technology keeps advancing. For my money and preferences, I like the front-loading style and use a Ninja Foodi. It's easy to load, spacious, and has many different cooking options.

Make This Easy Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Overall, this yogurt-marinated air fryer pork tenderloin was an absolute hit! From the tangy marinade to the juicy and flavorful pork, this recipe does not disappoint. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it's also easy to whip up and ready in a shorter amount of time than many of our traditional dishes.

So why not give it a try? Whether you’re planning for your next party or just looking for something different for dinner tonight, this yogurt-marinated air fryer pork tenderloin won’t let you down. Take the leap – grab your air fryer and start marinating that pork! You won't be sorry you made this delicious and nutritious dish.

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