Cooking pork loin in an air fryer is one of the easiest ways to achieve a tender, juicy center with a beautifully browned exterior. It delivers great results without using excessive oil or heating up your oven.
The air fryer circulates hot air evenly around the meat, locking in moisture while creating a lightly crisped crust. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful main dish for guests, air-fryer pork loin is a reliable and time-saving option.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to cook pork loin in an air fryer, including preparation tips, ideal cooking times, seasoning ideas, and simple recipe variations that never fail.
Pork loin is a lean, boneless cut of meat taken from the back of the pig. It’s often confused with pork tenderloin, but the two are different. Pork loin is thicker and wider, making it ideal for roasting or air frying when cooked correctly. Because it’s lean, proper seasoning and temperature control are key to keeping it juicy.
Air frying pork loin offers several benefits compared to traditional oven roasting or pan-frying:
Faster cooking time due to concentrated hot air circulation
Juicier results when cooked at the correct temperature
Less oil required, making it a healthier option
Even browning without frequent flipping
Minimal cleanup, perfect for busy days
The air fryer is especially helpful for smaller pork loins that fit comfortably in the basket.
For a basic air fryer pork loin, you’ll need:
1½ to 2 pounds pork loin (boneless)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
Optional herbs: thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning
Proper preparation makes a noticeable difference in texture and flavor.
Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Rub with olive oil to help seasonings stick and promote browning.
Season evenly on all sides with spices and herbs.
Let it rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking for more even results.
Preheating ensures the pork loin starts cooking immediately and helps develop a nice crust.
Set your air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
Preheat for 3–5 minutes. Some air fryers have a preheat function; if not, just run it empty for a few minutes.
Proper prep ensures maximum flavor and tenderness.
Pat the pork dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Rub with olive oil on all sides. This helps the seasonings stick and creates a golden exterior.
Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any herbs you like (rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning).
Optional: Let it rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
Place the pork loin in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring there’s space around the meat for proper air circulation.
Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can prevent even cooking and browning.
Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 22–27 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the loin.
Flip the pork halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides are evenly browned.
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the pork loin.
The pork is safe to eat when it reaches 145°F (63°C).
If the pork hasn’t reached this temperature, continue cooking in 2–3 minute increments and recheck.
Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the air fryer and place it on a cutting board.
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Slice the pork loin against the grain for the most tender pieces.
Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
Season with garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, and olive oil for a classic, savory flavor that pairs well with roasted vegetables.
Brush the pork with a mixture of Dijon mustard and honey before air frying for a sweet-savory glaze.
Season lightly, air fry until nearly done, then brush with barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes.
Use smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne for a bold, smoky heat.
Avoid overcooking; pork dries out quickly past 145°F
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy
Flip the pork halfway for even cooking
Resting time is essential for moisture retention
Slice against the grain for the most tender bites
Pork loin pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including:
Air-fried potatoes or sweet potatoes
Steamed green beans or broccoli
Fresh salads with vinaigrette
Rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes
Learning how to cook pork loin in an air fryer is a game-changer for easy, flavorful meals. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, you can enjoy juicy pork loin that’s perfectly seasoned and cooked every time. Whether you prefer classic herbs, sweet glazes, or bold spices, air fryer pork loin recipes are versatile, satisfying, and ideal for both beginners and experienced home cooks.
