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Air Fryer Garlic Pork Tenderloin - Juicy, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced (or 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder in a pinch)
  • 1.5 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional but recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Trim the tenderloin: Use a sharp knife to remove the silver skin and any large bits of fat. This helps the seasoning penetrate and prevents chewiness.
  2. Pat it dry: Blot the pork with paper towels. Removing surface moisture helps the crust brown better.
  3. Make the garlic rub: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon, brown sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Coat the pork: Rub the mixture all over the tenderloin, pressing it in so it sticks. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes at room temperature while the air fryer preheats.
  5. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. A hot basket helps form a nice crust.
  6. Air fry: Place the tenderloin in the basket, seam side down if it’s a bit tapered. Cook for 10 minutes.
  7. Flip and finish: Turn the pork over and cook another 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 140–145°F in the thickest part.
  8. Rest: Transfer to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5–8 minutes. The temperature will rise a few degrees and the juices will redistribute.
  9. Slice and serve: Cut into 1/2-inch medallions. Squeeze with lemon and sprinkle with parsley if you like.