This air fryer pork tenderloin recipe uses a flavorful marinade to make the pork exceptionally juicy and tender, offering the perfect way to enjoy this cut of meat. In this blog, we will guide you step-by-step on how to cook delicious pork tenderloin in an air fryer. Keep reading to discover how to achieve mouth-watering results every time!
Ⅰ. Time Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 1-2 hours (optional but recommended)
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes – 2 hours 35 minutes
Ⅱ. Ingredients Needed
Pork Tenderloin: Rich in lean protein and iron, pork tenderloin is an excellent choice for a healthy diet. This recipe ensures the pork tenderloin remains juicy and flavorful, making it a hit with everyone.
- Olive Oil + Balsamic Vinegar: These ingredients add moisture and flavor to the pork. The vinegar also helps to tenderize the meat during marination.
- Garlic: Adds a delicious garlic flavor.
- Fresh Rosemary: Woody and peppery, rosemary pairs excellently with pork.
- Dijon Mustard: This mustard provides a tangy complement to the pork, enhancing its flavor profile.
Ⅲ. Detailed Cooking Steps
1. Dry the Pork Tenderloin:
Trim any excess fat from the pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This step ensures the marinade adheres well and helps the pork develop a nice crust during cooking.
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary, and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. This blend not only adds flavor but also helps in tenderizing the meat.
3. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse the meat. If you’re short on time, even a 30-minute marination can add good flavor.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the pork tenderloin starts cooking at the right temperature, leading to even cooking.
5. Cook the Pork:
Remove the pork tenderloin from the marinade and place it in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning the pork halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures that the pork is cooked to perfection, remaining juicy and tender.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, let the pork tenderloin rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Ⅳ. Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
1.Use a Meat Thermometer:
Ensuring the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked pork. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin to get an accurate reading.
2.Don’t Skip the Marinating:
While marinating the pork tenderloin is optional, it significantly enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the pork, making each bite more delicious.
3.Rest the Meat:
After cooking, allow the pork tenderloin to rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful. Cutting into the meat immediately after cooking can cause the juices to run out, leading to drier, less flavorful pork.
4.Avoid Overcrowding:
Make sure the air can circulate around the pork tenderloin in the air fryer for even cooking. Overcrowding the basket can hinder air flow, resulting in unevenly cooked meat. If necessary, cook the pork in batches to ensure that each piece receives adequate heat and air circulation.
Ⅴ. Conclusion
Cooking pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a delightful way to prepare a meal that is both delicious and effortless. The combination of a rich marinade and the air fryer’s efficient cooking ensures that your pork tenderloin will be perfectly juicy and tender. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you are guaranteed to create a dish that is crispy, aromatic, and bursting with flavor.
