Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Introduction

Few dishes deliver flavor, juiciness, and weeknight convenience better than Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin. This recipe turns a humble cut of pork into an incredibly tender, golden-brown main course—all in under 30 minutes. The magic lies in how the air fryer locks in moisture while crisping the exterior, creating a meal that’s as impressive for guests as it is practical for busy families.

Why This Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Always Shines

Air fryer pork tenderloin is a crowd-pleaser thanks to its perfectly seasoned crust and the evenly cooked, succulent meat at its center. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures a uniform doneness, eliminating guesswork and reducing the risk of overcooked, dry pork. Whether sliced and served with veggies or on a salad, this protein-packed dish is versatile and sure to delight.

Essential Tips for Maximum Flavor

Start by choosing a pork tenderloin roughly 1 to 1.5 pounds for even cooking. A quick homemade rub of garlic powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and fresh herbs elevates the meat. For best results, let the seasoned tenderloin rest at room temperature for 15 minutes. Brushing the pork with a mist of olive oil ensures a crisp, golden finish and helps seasonings adhere.

For easy prep and consistent rub application, a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper can help mince garlic and herbs quickly.

How to Make Pork Tenderloin in the Air Fryer

After prepping your pork, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. If your appliance requires a liner for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, use Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs, 8” Square by Baker’s Signature. Carefully place the pork tenderloin in the basket of a COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey, ensuring it doesn’t overlap or fold.

Cook for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenderloin should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal juiciness—quickly and accurately check with a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking.

Serving & Storing Suggestions

Let the cooked pork rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing. Serve it with roasted vegetables, over a simple salad, or thinly sliced in a hearty sandwich. If you have leftovers, keep them fresh in a set of Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) for easy lunches throughout the week.

Nutritional Information & Portions

This recipe serves 4, with each serving containing around 180–200 calories (before sides or additional sauces). Pork tenderloin is a lean, high-protein cut, making it an excellent centerpiece for balanced, nutritious meals.

Best Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin (Recap)

With its juicy interior, golden exterior, and ultra-simple prep, Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin is a go-to for nearly any dinner table. The air fryer infuses the meat with flavor and delivers a sophisticated presentation with minimal hands-on time—ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
2. Pat the pork tenderloin dry and trim off silverskin if necessary. Use a Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 for stability and safety during prep.
3. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, thyme, and onion powder.
4. Rub the pork tenderloin with olive oil and coat evenly with the seasoning mix.
5. Line air fryer basket with Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs, 8” Square by Baker’s Signature for easy cleanup. Place seasoned pork in the basket of the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey.
6. Air fry for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check doneness at center with a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking; internal temperature should read 145°F.
7. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing into medallions. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes