Easy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin (Perfectly Cooked) – Juicy, Fast, and Flavorful

Tender, juicy pork tenderloin in under 30 minutes? This air fryer version makes it not only possible, but easy. You get a beautiful crust on the outside and a perfectly cooked center without babysitting a skillet or turning on the oven.

It’s weeknight-friendly, company-worthy, and flexible enough to match whatever flavors you’re craving. If you’ve been nervous about drying out pork, this method is your new safety net.

What Makes This Special

This recipe leans on simple seasoning and reliable technique. The air fryer circulates hot air around the tenderloin, which means quick cooking and a great sear without extra oil.

The result is moist, evenly cooked pork with a lightly crisp exterior.

Another win: it’s hard to mess up. A quick rest after cooking locks in the juices, and you can swap in different spices to match the meal. Whether you serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, it slides right into your routine.

Shopping List

• 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness
• Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for brushing
• Optional: Fresh lemon for serving

Instructions

1. Trim the tenderloin. Remove any silver skin with a sharp knife.

   This thin, silvery membrane turns tough if it’s not removed and keeps seasoning from sinking in.

2. Pat it dry. Use paper towels to dry the pork well. Dry meat sears better and forms a nicer crust in the air fryer.
3. Season generously. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and thyme. Rub the tenderloin with oil, then coat all sides with the spice mix.

   If using Dijon and brown sugar or maple syrup, brush the mustard lightly first, then sprinkle the sugar over the spices.

4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps with browning and even cooking.
5. Air fry. Place the seasoned tenderloin in the basket, tucking the thin tail end under if it’s very long so it cooks evenly. Air fry for 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway through. Start checking at 16 minutes if your tenderloin is on the smaller side.
6. Check temperature. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.

   You’re aiming for 140–145°F for a juicy, slightly rosy center. Pull it right at 140–143°F; it will rise a few degrees as it rests.

7. Rest 5–8 minutes. Set the tenderloin on a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Resting relaxes the meat fibers and keeps the juices inside.
8. Slice and serve. Cut into 1/2-inch medallions.

   Finish with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of pan juices from the board.

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the fridge. For best flavor, keep slices in their juices or add a splash of broth before chilling. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F for 3–4 minutes, or warm in a covered skillet with a bit of water or stock.

To freeze, wrap sliced pork tightly and store up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat low and slow to avoid drying out.

Why This is Good for You

Pork tenderloin is a lean protein, naturally lower in fat than many cuts of pork. It’s packed with B-vitamins like B6 and B12, which support energy and metabolism. Pairing it with fiber-rich sides like roasted vegetables or a grain salad rounds out the meal.

The air fryer helps you use less oil while still getting great browning.

That means fewer calories from fat without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What Not to Do

• Don’t skip the thermometer. Guessing leads to dry meat or undercooking. A quick check saves dinner.
• Don’t overcook past 150°F. Pork tenderloin is very lean and dries out fast once it goes too high.
• Don’t skip the rest. Slicing right away lets juices run out and leaves the meat less tender.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air needs to circulate. If your air fryer is small, cook in two pieces or in two batches.
• Don’t forget to dry the meat first. Moisture on the surface prevents a good crust.

Variations You Can Try

• Honey Mustard: Mix 1 tablespoon Dijon with 1 tablespoon honey and brush over the seasoned pork before air frying.

  Finish with fresh parsley.

• BBQ Style: Rub with your favorite BBQ seasoning. During the last 3 minutes, brush with a thin layer of BBQ sauce to glaze.
• Herb and Lemon: Swap paprika for rosemary and oregano. Add lemon zest to the seasoning and serve with lemon wedges.
• Chili-Lime: Use chili powder, cumin, and a dash of cayenne.

  Squeeze lime over the slices and top with cilantro.

• Maple Pepper: Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup and extra black pepper. The sweet heat pairs great with roasted squash or sweet potatoes.

FAQ

How long should I cook pork tenderloin in the air fryer?

At 400°F, plan for about 18–22 minutes, depending on the size of the tenderloin and your air fryer model. Always verify with a thermometer and pull it at 140–145°F.

Can I marinate the pork first?

Yes.

Marinate for 30 minutes to 8 hours in the fridge. Before cooking, pat it dry and add a light oil rub plus dry spices so it still browns nicely.

What if my tenderloin is larger than the basket?

Tuck the thin tail end under, or cut the tenderloin in half and cook the pieces side by side. Leave space so air can circulate for even browning.

Is a little pink okay in pork tenderloin?

Yes. 145°F with a 3-minute rest is considered safe by USDA standards and can show a slight rosy color.

The key is hitting the right internal temperature.

Can I use this method for pork loin?

Pork loin is thicker and takes longer. It’s better suited for oven roasting or lower-temp air frying with a longer cook time. Stick to tenderloin for this quick, high-heat method.

What sides go well with this?

Roasted green beans, air-fried potatoes, a simple arugula salad, garlic rice, or sautéed mushrooms are all great picks.

The flavors are neutral, so most sides will work.

How do I keep it from sticking?

Lightly oil the pork and, if needed, the air fryer basket. Avoid heavy sprays of aerosol cooking spray if your basket has a nonstick coating; they can damage the surface.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Cook, cool, and slice.

Store with juices and reheat gently. It’s great for meal prep and stays tender if you don’t overcook it the first time.

In Conclusion

This Easy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin gives you a fast, reliable way to get juicy, flavorful results every time. With a simple spice rub, a hot basket, and a quick rest, you’ll have tender slices ready for any night of the week.

Keep a thermometer handy, switch up the seasonings as you like, and enjoy a fuss-free main that always delivers.