Herb-Crusted Pork Loin
Equipment
- Air fryer Ideal for achieving a crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy. Models like Ninja Foodi or Philips work great.
- Oven If you don't have an air fryer, a conventional oven at 400°F will do. Use a wire rack on a baking sheet for best results.
- Meat Thermometer A must for checking doneness without cutting the meat.
- Small bowl For mixing the herb rub.
- Pastry brush or your hands To coat the pork evenly.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb pork loin not tenderloin; they cook differently
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes. Pat your pork loin dry with paper towels—dry meat is key to a good crust.
Mix the Herb Rub
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. This combo creates a fragrant, zesty crust that locks in moisture and boosts flavor.
Coat the Pork Loin
- Rub the herb mixture all over the pork loin, making sure every inch is coated. Use your hands or a brush for even application.
Air Fry the Pork
- Place the pork loin in the air fryer basket. Air fry pork loin at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The pork is done when a thermometer inserted in the center reads 145°F. This pork loin air fryer time ensures it stays juicy yet safe to eat.
Pro tip: If your air fryer is compact, cut the loin into two pieces to ensure even cooking.
Rest and Serve
- Let the pork rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute. Serve with lemon wedges or a light glaze for a gourmet touch.