Learn tips and tricks for perfectly cooked and seasoned Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin. This post was sponsored by the Ohio Pork Council. All opinions are my own.
The air fryer is ideal for pork tenderloin
The air fryer cooks this lean cut beautifully: a nicely browned exterior with a tender, juicy interior. The USDA and the Pork Board recommend an internal temperature of 145°F; a slight blush of pink is perfect. I prefer the air fryer for pork tenderloin because its high, even heat creates a flavorful crust while sealing in juices. It’s also easy to check doneness with a meat thermometer so you hit that 145°F target reliably.
How to ensure perfectly cooked pork tenderloin
Air fryers vary, so times are approximate. I test recipes using a Philips Air Fryer. The goal is to remove the tenderloin when the internal temperature reaches 145°F. In my fryer that meant cooking at 400°F for about 20 minutes total. Always rely on a digital meat thermometer rather than time alone to confirm doneness.
What to serve with Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
I like a drizzle of BBQ sauce over sliced pork tenderloin. Classic sides like mashed potatoes and peas pair perfectly, and homemade applesauce makes a simple, fresh dessert. Other side dish ideas that complement pork tenderloin include:
- Oven baked macaroni and cheese
- Spinach and strawberry salad
- Cheesy potatoes
- Apple crisp
Difference between pork tenderloin and pork loin
Pork loin comes from the pig’s back and is suited to slower roasting. Pork tenderloin is a smaller, very lean muscle along the backbone, usually around one pound. Because it’s so lean, pork tenderloin benefits from high-heat, quick cooking — exactly what an air fryer provides.
Kitchen tips
- I test air fryer recipes using a Philips Air Fryer XXL.
- Use your favorite grill seasoning and a bit of salt to season the tenderloin evenly.
- Brush the air fryer basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Finish the pork with your preferred BBQ sauce after cooking.
- Always verify internal temperature with a digital meat thermometer before serving.
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Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 2 tsp grill seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- BBQ sauce
- vegetable oil
Start Cooking
Instructions
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Dry the pork tenderloin with paper towels and sprinkle it evenly with the grill seasoning and salt.
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Let the pork sit at room temperature about 30 minutes before cooking.
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Brush the air fryer basket lightly with vegetable oil.
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Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
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Place the seasoned tenderloin in the basket and cook at 400°F for 10 minutes.
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Flip the tenderloin and continue cooking 8–12 minutes more, checking the internal temperature. The goal is 145°F—start checking after about 20 minutes total cooking time.
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When the pork reaches 145°F, remove it and rest 3 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 1 g |
Protein: 24 g |
Fat: 4 g
More Air Fryer Recipes:
- Air Fryer Pork Chops
- Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
- Shrimp Tacos
- Chicken Chimichangas
