Introduction
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and tender meal. The air fryer’s hot air circulation ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior, while maintaining the meat’s juiciness. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer.
Ingredients
To cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Tenderloin
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork tenderloin. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This will help achieve a crispy exterior.
Step 2: Seasoning the Pork Tenderloin
In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it is evenly coated. Drizzle olive oil over the seasoned pork to enhance the flavors and prevent it from drying out.
Step 3: Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure the pork tenderloin cooks evenly and gets that desired crispy exterior.
Step 4: Cooking the Pork Tenderloin
Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket. Cook for approximately 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. For accurate cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once the pork tenderloin is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful meat. Slice the pork tenderloin into desired portions and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the pork tenderloin is at room temperature before cooking to achieve even cooking throughout.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave enough space for the hot air to circulate and cook the pork tenderloin evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking or undercooking the pork tenderloin.
- Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to add variety to your air-fried pork tenderloin.
Conclusion
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can achieve perfectly cooked pork tenderloin with a crispy exterior and tender interior. Experiment with different seasonings and enjoy this versatile dish with your favorite sides.