How to Cook Juicy Pork Loin Filet in an Air Fryer

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance for their ability to make foods crispy and delicious using little to no oil. An air fryer can be used to cook a variety of meats, including pork. Specifically air frying is a great hands-off way to cook pork loin filets to tender and juicy perfection.

In this article, I’ll provide a complete guide on how to cook pork loin filets in an air fryer. I’ll cover tips for selecting the right cut of meat, air fryer cooking steps, timing, temperature, seasoning ideas, doneness, as well as serving suggestions. Let’s get started!

Benefits of Cooking Pork Loin in an Air Fryer

Here are some of the benefits of using an air fryer for pork loin filets:

• Requires little to no oil, resulting in healthier cooking
• Produces tender, juicy pork due to rapid hot air circulation
• Allows for quick cooking times compared to oven
• Easy to monitor and adjust cook time as needed
• Provides evenly browned exterior with crispy edges
• Infuses pork with lots of flavor from seasonings
• Doesn’t heat up kitchen like using the oven
• Easy cleanup!

Selecting the Right Pork Loin Cut

The first step is choosing the right cut of pork loin for air frying. Here’s what to look for:

• Pork loin filet – Boneless, lean and tender cuts that are oval shaped Choose filets 1-2 lbs

• Even thickness – Pick filets with consistent thickness for even cooking

• Marbling – Moderate marbling provides flavor and moisture. Avoid too lean.

• Color – Light pink color indicates freshness.

• Package date – Choose pork with farthest package date for maximum freshness.

Butcher counters or meat sections offer the best selection of high-quality pork loin filets perfect for air frying.

Prepping Pork Loin Filets for the Air Fryer

Before cooking, be sure to prep your pork loin filet:

• Trim excess fat & silverskin – This prevents burning and shriveling in the air fryer.

• Pat dry – Blot filet with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better browning.

• Season generously – Rub pork all over with spices and herbs for flavor. See seasoning ideas below.

• Bring to room temperature – Take pork out of fridge 30 mins before cooking.

Proper prep sets you up for perfect air fried pork!

How to Cook Pork Loin Filet in an Air Fryer

Here is a simple step-by-step method for cooking pork loin filets in an air fryer:

1. Preheat air fryer to 370°F for 5 minutes.

2. Spray or brush air fryer basket lightly with oil.

3. Place seasoned pork filet in single layer in basket.

4. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, flipping filet halfway.

5. Check internal temp, remove at 145°F for medium-rare.

6. Let pork rest 5 mins before slicing to serve.

Be sure to check internal temperature to guarantee safely cooked pork. Now let’s get into more air fryer pork loin cooking details.

Air Fryer Temperature

• Preheating at 370°F helps quickly seal in juices.

• Cook between 360-380°F to ensure even browning.

• Higher temps above 400°F may dry out the lean pork.

Air Fryer Cook Times

• Cook 15-18 minutes for 1 lb pork loin filets.

• Add 2-3 mins per lb for larger filets.

• Flip halfway during cooking for even browning.

• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness instead of relying solely on cook times.

Internal Temperature

• 145°F for medium-rare pork.

• 160°F for well done pork.

• Always rest pork at least 5 mins before serving.

An instant read thermometer takes the guesswork out of determining doneness.

Seasoning Your Pork Loin Filet

One benefit of air frying is that seasonings really shine since no added oil is used. Consider these seasoning ideas:

• Chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic for Mexican flavors

• Rosemary, thyme, sage for a herb blend

• Cumin, coriander, ginger, garlic for Indian flair

• Chili flakes, sesame oil, soy for Asian zing

• Lemon pepper, oregano, garlic for Mediterranean taste

• Barbecue dry rub, chili powder, brown sugar for backyard bbq flavors

Get creative with spice blends to infuse your pork loin filet with lots of flavor.

Cooking Multiple Pork Loin Filets

It’s easy to cook two pork loin filets at once in most air fryer models. Follow these tips:

• Use filets of similar size and thickness.

• Give 1 inch space between filets for air circulation.

• Add 1-2 mins to cook time for two filets.

• Flip both filets halfway through cooking time.

• Check internal temp of each filet for doneness.

Cooking two pork filets together results in perfect entrees for dinner in just 20-25 mins start to finish!

Common Air Fryer Mistakes

Avoid these common air fryer mistakes when cooking pork loin:

• Not preheating properly – Always preheat at least 5 mins.

• Overcrowding – Don’t pack filets too tightly.

• Uneven cooking – Flip filets midway for even browning.

• Overcooking – Use a meat thermometer and don’t rely solely on timer.

• Not letting rest – Let pork rest 5+ mins before slicing for juiciness.

With a little practice, you’ll be air frying pork loin filets perfectly every time.

Serving Suggestions

Pork loin filets cooked in the air fryer make a quick and tasty entree. Serve with:

• Herb roasted potatoes or rice pilaf

• Sauteed or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or asparagus

• Fresh salad or coleslaw

• Homemade bread or rolls

• Sauces like chimichurri, cherry compote, or gravy

A simple arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette perfectly balances the juicy pork filet.

Leftovers & Reheating

Leftover pork loin filets hold up well for 2-3 days refrigerated. Reheat them easily in the air fryer:

• Slice filet into thinner pieces if desired.

• Place in air fryer and cook at 330F for 4-6 mins until warmed through.

No need to reseason pork. The air fryer will crisp up the edges delightfully.

Tips for Juicy Air Fried Pork Loin

Here are my top tips for ensuring tender, juicy pork loin filets from the air fryer:

• Choose nicely marbled cuts

• Trim excess fat to prevent burning

• Generously season for added flavor

• Preheat air fryer fully before cooking

• Flip filets midway through cook time

• Don’t overcook – use a meat thermometer

• Allow proper rest time before slicing into pork

Follow these simple tricks and you’ll have perfect pork loin filets ready in just 20 minutes or less! Dinnertime has never been easier.

So for quick and easy weeknight meals, give air fried pork loin filets a try. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to make this classic cut of pork that is tender and bursting with juice and flavor. Try out different herb and spice combinations to keep dinner exciting and delicious every time.