When I air fry pork loin, I use a simple dry rub to give it a golden crust and juicy, tender meat inside.
Air fryers have become increasingly popular kitchen appliances for their ability to make foods crispy and delicious using little to no oil. One of the most mouthwatering dishes you can make in an air fryer is a tender, juicy pork loin filet
Compared to traditional oven cooking, the air fryer can cook pork loin filets quickly and evenly with that irresistible crispy exterior. Even better, air fried pork retains more juices and flavor without drying out.
If you’re new to using an air fryer, have no fear! In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk through everything you need to know to cook perfect pork loin filet in an air fryer, from start to finish. Let’s get cooking!
Selecting the Right Pork Loin Filet
The first step to air fryer success is choosing the right cut of meat. Look for pork loin filets that are:
- Uniformly pink in color without blemishes
- Firm and springy to the touch
- 1 to 1.5 inches thick for even cooking
- Lean with minimal marbling or fat
Pork tenderloin, also called pork fillet, makes an excellent choice Offering ultimate tenderness, these petite cuts cook fast in the air fryer. Boneless center-cut loin chops also work very well
For best results opt for enhanced pork injected with a salt solution to boost juiciness and flavor.
Trimming and Prepping the Pork Loin
Before cooking, trim off any excess fat or silver skin from the pork loin using a sharp knife. The silverskin can cause the meat to curl while cooking.
For uniform thickness, cut the tapered pork loin in half crosswise. Tie each half with butcher’s twine to maintain even thickness and shape.
Pat the pork dry with paper towels. This helps the pork develop a nice sear and allows seasonings to adhere properly.
Seasoning for Maximum Flavor
One of the keys to incredible air fried pork is getting the seasoning right. Pork loin has a mildly sweet, subtle flavor that pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices.
Some tasty seasoning combos for pork loin filets include:
- Brown sugar, rosemary, garlic powder, salt and pepper
- Smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano, cumin
- Chili powder, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, garlic
- Sage, thyme, mustard powder, salt and pepper
Thoroughly coat all sides of the pork loin with olive oil, then generously apply your favorite dry rub. Let the seasoned pork marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes up to overnight.
Setting up the Air Fryer
Air fryer models vary, so always refer to your appliance’s manual. In general:
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
- Use cooking spray or brush basket with oil to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd – cook pork in a single layer.
- Place pork in air fryer seam side down if using twine.
For easy retrieval, insert a wooden skewer under pork loin before placing in basket.
Air Frying Time and Temp
The size of your pork loin filet determines cook time. Follow these air fryer guidelines:
- 1 lb pork loin filet: Cook at 400°F for 18-22 minutes
- 1.5 lb pork loin filet: Cook at 400°F for 22-28 minutes
Use an instant-read thermometer to check internal temp, inserting into thickest part.
- 145°F = slightly pink center
- 160°F = lightly pink center
- 170°F = fully cooked through
Let pork rest 5 minutes before slicing for perfectly juicy results.
Monitoring Doneness
One advantage of the air fryer is the see-through window, making it easy to monitor doneness. Check periodically and flip pork halfway through cooking.
If air fryer doesn’t have a window, insert thermometer occasionally to check temp.
Since pork dries out quickly if overcooked, keep a close eye on it. The pork is done when it’s lightly browned outside and the inner temperature reads 145-160°F.
Air Fryer Pork Loin Recipe Inspiration
From sweet to savory and simple to gourmet, there are endless ways to flavor your pork loin filet in the air fryer.
A few recipe ideas include:
- Brown sugar pork loin with thyme
- Jerk-spiced pork with mango salsa
- Honey garlic pork loin
- Pork medallions with avocado lime cream
- Chili lime pork lettuce wraps
- Pork tenderloin with apple chutney
- Cajun pork with remoulade sauce
Feel free to get creative with marinades, spice rubs and finishing sauces!
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
A properly cooked pork loin deserves an equally delicious sidekick. Consider pairing your air fried pork with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Sauteed or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, carrots
- Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Quinoa or brown rice
- Polenta or cheesy grits
- Mac and cheese or pasta salad
- Corn on the cob, grilled or sauteed
A simple salad, veggie and starch make the perfect complementary trio.
Air Fryer Pork Loin Filet FAQs
Can I marinate pork loin before air frying?
Absolutely! Marinating for several hours or up to overnight infuses the pork with extra juiciness and flavor.
Should I flip pork loin while air frying?
Yes, flipping halfway through is recommended for even browning and cooking.
Is pork loin done when no longer pink inside?
No, use a meat thermometer to verify safe internal temp rather than visual cues.
Can I reheat leftover air fried pork loin?
Leftover pork reheats wonderfully in the air fryer or microwave. Just don’t overcook it.
With this complete air fryer pork loin filet cooking guide, you’ll be able to achieve tender, juicy and flavorful results every time. Ditch the oven and enjoy quick crispy pork perfection with your air fryer.
Air Fry Pork Loin Ingredients
- Pork loin — I’ve included directions for any size
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic and onion powder
- Salt and pepper
Ideas for What to Serve with Pork Tenderloin
