Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? Try these air fryer pork medallions just a few simple steps, you can transform a pork tenderloin into tender, juicy medallions bursting with flavor.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner, this recipe will become a new favorite in your household.
If you are looking for an easy Air Fryer Meal, try my recipe for copycat carrabba’s chicken bryan, air fryer pork taquitos, or ninja foodi pork tenderloin.
Pork Medallions Air Fryer
Air Fry Pork medallions are small, round slices of pork tenderloin that are typically about 1-inch thick.
The tenderloin, known for being one of the leanest and most tender cuts of pork, makes these medallions both flavorful and easy to cook. They are versatile and can be prepared in various ways, such as grilling, pan-searing, baking, or air frying.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Quick Cooking Time: The air fryer cooks pork medallions quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a delicious meal on the table in under 20 minutes!
- Juicy and Tender: Slicing the pork into medallions ensures each piece stays juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. Every bite is packed with flavor and moisture.
- Healthier Option: Air frying uses less oil compared to traditional frying, making this a healthier choice. Enjoy crispy pork medallions without the guilt!
- Versatile Seasoning: You can easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer savory, spicy, or sweet flavors. Experiment with different marinades for endless variety.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer means less mess in the kitchen, making cleanup a breeze. Enjoy your meal without the hassle of extensive washing up!
Ingredients Needed
These ingredients come together to create delicious, well-seasoned pork tenderloin medallions that cook perfectly in the air fryer.
Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post and the nutritional information.
- Pork Tenderloin: A lean, tender cut of pork that is perfect for slicing into medallions.
- Olive Oil: Helps to coat the pork medallions, ensuring they stay moist and aids in achieving a crispy exterior.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the pork.
- Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Garlic Powder: Provides a savory and aromatic flavor that complements the pork beautifully.
- Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a vibrant color to the medallions.
- Dried Thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal note that pairs well with pork.
- Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder and adds a subtle onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onions.
How To Cook Pork Medallions Air Fryer
Follow these steps for perfect medallions every time:
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This ensures the medallions cook evenly and achieve a nice sear.
Prepare the Pork Tenderloin: Slice the pork tenderloin into 1-inch thick medallions. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a good sear.
Season the Medallions: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, and onion powder. Rub the medallions with olive oil to help the seasoning stick and prevent them from drying out.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the medallions, pressing it into the meat to ensure good coverage.
Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the seasoned medallions in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching or overlapping, as this allows hot air to circulate around each piece for even cooking.
Pork Medallions Air Fryer Time: Set air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F (200°C) and set cook time for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides are evenly cooked and browned. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The medallions are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Serve: Remove the medallions from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring they remain tender and juicy. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Air Fryer Pork Medallions Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Select a high-quality pork tenderloin, as this cut is naturally lean and tender.
- Consistent Thickness: Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions that are about 1 inch thick.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Season Generously: Season the medallions with a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, and onion powder.
- Use Oil Sparingly: Lightly coat the medallions with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the medallions in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
- Flip Halfway Through: Flip the medallions halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the medallions.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the medallions rest for 5 minutes after cooking.
- Experiment with Marinades and Rubs: Try different marinades or spice rubs to add variety and depth to your pork medallions.
Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe Faqs
Can I use frozen pork tenderloin medallions? It’s best to thaw the pork tenderloin before cooking for even results; however, you can adjust the cooking time if using frozen.
How thick should I slice the pork tenderloin? Aim for slices about 1 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy.
What seasonings work best for pork tenderloin medallions? Popular seasonings include garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, or a pre-made spice rub.
How long should I cook the pork medallions in the air fryer? Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I know when the pork medallions are done? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Can I marinate the pork tenderloin before cooking? Yes! Marinating for at least 30 minutes or overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
What should I serve with pork tenderloin medallions? They pair well with roasted vegetables, rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I reheat pork medallions in the air fryer? Yes, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to maintain their juiciness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! These pork medallions are great for meal prep and can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes
- copycat carrabba’s chicken bryan
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Easy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions
Description
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the medallions cook evenly and achieve a nice sear.
- Slice the pork tenderloin into 1-inch thick medallions. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a good sear.
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, and onion powder.
- Rub the medallions with olive oil to help the seasoning stick and prevent them from drying out.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the medallions, pressing it into the meat to ensure good coverage.
- Place the seasoned medallions in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching or overlapping, as this allows hot air to circulate around each piece for even cooking.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides are evenly cooked and browned.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The medallions are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the medallions from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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