STEP 2: Using a sharp knife, trim and remove any larger pieces of fat. Then, brush the tenderloin with olive oil, coating both sides of the tenderloin.
Uncooked pork tenderloin after being lightly brushed with olive oil, before being coated with seasonings.
STEP 3: In a small bowl, add the brown sugar, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and chili powder. Stir everything together.
Seasonings mixed in a small glass bowl with a fork, on a marble table.
STEP 4: Season both sides of the tenderloin, gently pressing the seasoning mixture into the meat, until both sides are completely coated.
Uncooked pork tenderloin on light brown butcher paper, after being seasoned with brown sugar and spices.
STEP 5: Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F.
STEP 6: Once the air fryer is preheated, place the pork in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400 degrees F for 18-22 minutes, turning halfway through cook time.
Uncooked seasoned pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket.
STEP 7: The tenderloin will be done when an instant read thermometer is inserted into the thickest portion of the tenderloin, and internal temperature is 145 degrees F.
TIPS FOR MAKING JUICY AND TENDERLOIN AIR FRYER PORK TENDERLOIN
Use a meat thermometer- When making this recipe, adjust the time if you have a thicker tenderloin. A meat thermometer is the best way to confirm doneness.
Experiment with flavors- Marinate the tenderloin to add more flavors. Leave the tenderloin sitting in the marinade. Keep it covered and in the fridge, until ready to cook.
Let the juices settle- Once done, let the tenderloin rest for 5-10 minutes, allowing juices to settle. Save the juices from the air fryer to pour over the tenderloin, prior to serving.
Crispy coated seasoned pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket after being cooked.
HOW TO CUT PORK TENDERLOIN
To cut for serving, use a clean, sharp knife and a cutting board. If the cutting board slides, place a slightly damp kitchen towel underneath it to help stabilize it. You don’t want it to move while cutting!
Cut against the grain of the meat, by holding the knife at a slight angle. Make even slices, cut to your desired thickness. Drizzle juices from the bottom of the basket just before serving.
PORK TENDERLOIN VARIATIONS
Because pork is so easy to switch up, you can create a different meal, depending on how you season it or what sauces you have to marinade or glaze the tenderloin.
Slice leftovers into thin slices, then you top it with mushrooms and onions for an amazing meat sandwich.
Cut the tenderloin, or use leftovers, to make small bite pieces and toss with potatoes or a salad for quick meal prep for the week.
For a spicier flavor, add Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to the spice mixture before air frying. There really aren’t any wrong choices if using your favorite seasonings!
This air fryer pork tenderloin is a great every day meal or holiday dinner! For more holiday meal ideas, check our our favorite Air Fryer Easter Recipes, Air Fryer Thanksgiving Recipes and these Air Fryer Christmas Recipes.
Juicy sliced tenderloin with a caramel glaze on the outside.
FAQS ABOUT MAKING PORK TENDERLOIN IN THE AIR FRYER:
HOW DO I STORE LEFTOVER PORK TENDERLOIN?
If you have leftover pork tenderloin, let it cool before storage. Once cooled, transfer it to a sealed Ziploc bag or airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days.
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