This air-fryer pork tenderloin recipe is all about bringing a rich, savory flavor to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you’ll find this recipe a breeze.
In just 30 minutes, you can transform a simple pork tenderloin into an impressive and delicious main course, perfect for any day of the week.
Air-Fryer Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lb pork tenderloin
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp fresh cracked pepper
- 1 tsp each of dried basil, oregano, thyme, parsley, and sage (or 2 tbsp Italian Herb Seasoning Blend)
- Optional: 1 bottle of this Italian Salad Dressing for marinating
- Fresh pomegranate arils for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Optional Marinating:
- If desired, marinate the pork in Italian dressing for 12-24 hours to enhance the flavor.
Make the Garlic Butter:
- Mix minced garlic with butter to create your garlic butter mixture.
Seasoning:
- Combine garlic, basil, oregano, thyme, parsley, and sage in a bowl. (Alternatively, use Italian Seasoning.)
- Rub this herb blend onto the pork, followed by a generous seasoning with sea salt and pepper.
Air-Frying:
- Preheat the air-fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the pork in the air-fryer, optionally covering it loosely with foil.
- Halfway through the cooking process (after about 10-12 minutes), turn the pork and add the garlic butter mixture on top.
- Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, typically in 20-25 minutes total.
Resting:
- Let the pork rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This step allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring the meat remains juicy.
Garnishing:
- Optionally, garnish the sliced pork with fresh pomegranate arils for added color and a hint of tangy sweetness.
Serving:
- Serve the warm pork tenderloin, ideally with a side dish of your choice.
Loved how your air fryer pork tenderloin turned out? Why not spread the word? Pin the image below to your Pinterest board. It’s a great way to let your friends and followers in on this delicious secret!
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to three months.
- Reheat in the air-fryer or oven after thawing in the refrigerator overnight.
Recipe Variation Ideas for Air-Fried Garlic Butter Pork Tenderloin
1. Spicy Twist: For those who love a bit of heat, add a spicy kick to your pork tenderloin. Mix in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into your seasoning blend. Alternatively, you can rub the pork with a spicy marinade, like chipotle or sriracha, before cooking.
2. Citrus Infusion: Brighten the flavor profile by adding citrus elements. Marinate the pork in a mixture of orange juice, lemon zest, and a touch of honey. This will give a refreshing and slightly sweet tang to the dish.
3. Herb Crust Variation: Create a herbaceous outer crust by coating the pork in a mix of finely chopped fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, and parsley) mixed with breadcrumbs. This adds a delightful texture and a burst of fresh flavors.
4. BBQ Style: For a BBQ twist, slather the pork with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of air-frying. This will create a sweet and smoky glaze that’s irresistible.
5. Mediterranean Influence: Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by using a mix of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and Greek seasoning in the rub. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing complement.
6. Asian Fusion: Give your pork tenderloin an Asian flair. Marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil. After cooking, glaze it with a blend of hoisin sauce and honey for a sweet and savory finish.
7. Stuffed Tenderloin: Elevate the dish by stuffing the tenderloin. Make a filling with ingredients like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and cheese, or a sweet and savory combination of apples, onions, and bacon. Butterfly the tenderloin, fill it, then tie it up before air-frying.
8. Creamy Sauce: Serve the pork with a creamy sauce. A simple garlic mushroom cream sauce or a Dijon mustard cream sauce can add a luxurious touch to the dish.
