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A quick and easy air fryer pork loin recipe featuring a juicy, tender center with a crispy, flavorful crust made from a simple herb and spice rub. Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 39-44 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (coconut sugar as a low-glycemic alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adjust if using fresh garlic)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder (fresh onions sautéed can be used)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (use triple the amount if fresh thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika for richer flavor)
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (about 3/4 teaspoon per pound of pork)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked preferred)
  • 2 pounds pork loin (not pork tenderloin)
  • 1 tablespoon oil (e.g., olive oil or avocado oil)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, and a splash of oil to make a seasoning rub.
  3. Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels.
  4. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork loin, coating all sides evenly.
  5. Optional: Refrigerate the rubbed pork loin up to 24 hours to marinate.
  6. Bring the pork loin to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
  7. Place the pork loin in the air fryer and cook at 375°F for 10 minutes.
  8. Flip the pork loin and air fry for an additional 19 to 24 minutes.
  9. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F before removing from the air fryer.
  10. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes to allow the temperature to rise to about 145°F.
  11. Slice the pork loin and spoon any collected juices from the air fryer over the top before serving.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; aim for 145°F after resting for juicy results., Marinating overnight enhances flavor., Cooking times vary with pork loin thickness; adjust accordingly., Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days., For freezing, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating., Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to restore crispness., Substitutions: pork tenderloin (cook 20-25 minutes), bone-in pork chops (flip halfway through cooking)., Alternative seasonings: fresh garlic, rosemary, tarragon, cayenne or chili powder for heat., Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic green beans, coleslaw, honey-glazed carrots, mixed green salad, or classic apple sauce.

  • Author: Ashley
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 29-34 minutes
  • Category: Main Course

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: about 1/2 pound pork loin per serving
  • Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
  • Fat: Approximately 15 grams per serving
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 15 grams per serving
  • Protein: About 30 grams per serving