Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
231 kcal
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Course
Main Course
Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
Description
The Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin recipe involves seasoning a 2-pound pork tenderloin with a dry rub consisting of brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Removing the membrane from the tenderloin enhances tenderness and allows the rub to penetrate the meat surface better. Cooking in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes creates a nicely glazed exterior while keeping the inside moist. After cooking, resting the meat for 5 minutes lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite stays juicy instead of dry. This method uses simple ingredients and minimal equipment to produce flavorful pork tenderloin without the need for marinating or complex steps.
The pork makes a versatile main dish that can be sliced and served alongside vegetables or grains for a balanced meal. The smoky paprika and sweetness from the brown sugar provide a mild savory profile that complements many sides without overpowering the pork's natural flavor.
Allowing the pork to come to room temperature before cooking helps it cook more uniformly. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe doneness. If your air fryer basket is smaller, cutting the tenderloin in half to fit and leaving space between pieces is recommended. Alternatively, this tenderloin can be oven roasted at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 pound pork tenderloin two pound
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Preheat air fryer to 400°
- Remove the membrane from the pork tenderloin (see post for how to do this)
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly into the entire surface of the pork tenderloin
- Air Fry for 20 minutes
- Allow the pork loin to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Remove the membrane from the pork tenderloin before seasoning to improve texture and flavor absorption.
- Bring pork to room temperature about 20 minutes before cooking for even doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- If using a smaller air fryer basket, cut the tenderloin in half and cook pieces spaced apart.
- Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket and meat with a high smoke point oil like avocado oil before cooking.
- Allow cooked pork to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep juices inside.
- If you do not have an air fryer, roast in a 400°F oven for 25-30 minutes until done.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 231 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1g | |
| Calories | 231kcal | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Protein | 32g | 64% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 98mg | 33% |
| Sodium | 472mg | 20% |
| Potassium | 719mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 9g | 18% |
| Vitamin A | 2221IU | 44% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 29mg | 3% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.