Crispy and Juicy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

For years, I was never much of a pork fan. It just never seemed to excite my taste buds. That all changed when I decided to try making Pork Chops in the air fryer. And let me tell you, it was a game changer. I dipped them in Mayo and rolled them in Panko, and the result was amazing. The Pork Chops turned out extra crispy on the outside, but the meat itself was tender, juicy, and full of flavor. I couldn’t believe how delicious they tasted, and now I can’t get enough! If you’ve never tried Crispy Pork Chops, I highly recommend giving them a chance. You won’t be disappointed! Now let’s go back to our Pork tenderloin.

What is Pork Tenderloin?

This cut of pork comes from the back of the pig and is known for its tenderness and mild flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking a weeknight meal for your family, pork tenderloin is an excellent choice. Its tender texture and mild flavor make it easy to pair with many different seasonings or sauces. It’s also a lean cut of meat, making it a healthier option than some other cuts of pork. Pork tenderloin is a great way to switch up your regular protein routine and create a delicious, satisfying meal.  Let’s learn how to make an air fryer pork tenderloin that is juicy, tender, and flavorful.

How to Make Pork Tenderloin in the Air Fryer

1. Choose the right cut. Before we get started with the recipe, let’s talk about choosing the right cut of pork tenderloin. When browsing your grocery store’s meat section, look for a cut that is firm and pink in color. Avoid tenderloins that are discolored or have a strong odor as these indicate spoilage. Also, choose a cut that is uniform in thickness for even cooking. I usually get the packaged tenderloin from Trader Joe’s which weighs  1.3 to 1 ½ pounds. (Picture 1 above).
2. Marinate the Pork. Now it’s time to marinate the pork. Picture 2 above. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, paprika, and herbs adds depth and complexity without overwhelming the natural flavor of the meat. I also like to add chili powder. I love how it brings an extra kick to an already delicious cut of meat. It can help to tenderize the pork by breaking down its muscle fibers and adding a unique smoky taste. Make sure to coat the pork tenderloin well with the marinade and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 °C) for 5 minutes. While it is heating up, remove the pork tenderloin from the marinade and pat it dry with a paper towel. Brush the pork with a light coat of olive oil (or use spray oil) to help prevent it from sticking to the air fryer basket.
4. Air Fry the Pork for 20 minutes. Place the pork in the air fryer basket, Picture 3 (or middle position tray if you’re using an air fryer oven), and cook for the first 10 minutes at 400F (200C). After 10 minutes flip the tenderloin on the other side, lightly spray with oil again, reduce the temperature to 375F, and cook for the remaining 10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The pork is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Picture 4.
5. Serve. Remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and let it rest for five minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and keep it tender and juicy. Serve with your favorite sides, such as Air fryer roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber salad.

Pork Tenderloin with Gravy

You can make the gravy while the pork is cooking in the air fryer. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir for a minute to make a roux. Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, and stir until the mixture thickens. Add salt, pepper, and any other herb you like to taste. If you want a thicker gravy, add more flour, and If you’d like a thinner gravy, add more broth. Stir well, lower the heat, and allow the gravy to simmer till the flavors meld and the pork is done.

What to Serve with Pork Tenderloin

While it’s great on its own, may I recommend a few of my favorite sides to serve it with?

Leftovers

Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2 minutes until warmed through.

Slice it up and use it as a protein in your favorite salad or wrap. Make a panini or grilled cheese with some sliced pork and your favorite cheeses.

You can freeze your pork tenderloin for up to three months, providing you with a convenient option for future meals. To make things even easier, I recommend pre-slicing your tenderloin before freezing. This will help speed up the reheating process when you’re ready to cook.

More favorites from Daily Yum

• The Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with smoky flavor.
• The KFC Copycat Air fryer drumsticks are a delicious homage to the fast-food chain’s iconic recipe.
• If you’re looking for something to spice things up, the Air Fryer Jalapeno Melt brings the heat with its combination of cheesy goodness and fiery jalapenos.
• And if you’re craving some garlicky chicken, the Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are sure to satisfy. These recipes are just a small sample of the many must-try dishes on Daily Yum.