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Easy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions

Name: Easy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
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

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Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? Try these Easy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions! In 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 Tenderloin Medallions Air Fryer

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 Cooking Pork Tenderloin Medallions In Air Fryer

Quick Cooking Time: Pork medallions cook very quickly due to their small size, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners. You can have a delicious meal on the table in under 20 minutes.
Tender and Juicy: The tenderloin is known for its tenderness, and when cooked correctly, pork medallions remain juicy and flavorful. This cut is less likely to dry out compared to other cuts of pork.
Lean and Healthy: Pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of pork, making it a healthy choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake. It is a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Versatile Flavor: Pork medallions can be seasoned and marinated in countless ways, absorbing flavors beautifully. Whether you prefer a simple herb rub, a tangy marinade, or a spicy seasoning mix, these medallions will taste great.
Perfect for Various Cuisines: Whether you’re cooking a classic American dish, an Asian-inspired meal, or a Mediterranean feast, pork medallions can fit seamlessly into any cuisine. Their versatility makes them a favorite among home cooks.
Great for Entertaining: Their elegant appearance and delicious taste make pork medallions a great choice for entertaining guests. They are easy to portion and serve, ensuring everyone gets a perfectly cooked piece.
Ideal for Meal Prep: Pork medallions can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. They reheat well, making them an excellent option for meal prep and quick lunches.
Affordable and Accessible: Pork tenderloin is relatively affordable and widely available, making pork medallions an economical choice for a variety of meals.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions

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. It cooks quickly and remains juicy and flavorful.
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. Use according to your taste preference.
Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the seasoning. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
Garlic Powder: Provides a savory and aromatic flavor that complements the pork beautifully. It distributes evenly over the medallions.
Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a vibrant color to the medallions. Smoked paprika can be used for a smoky twist.
Dried Thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal note that pairs well with pork. It enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder and adds a subtle onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onions. It helps balance the seasoning mix.

How To Cook Pork Tenderloin Medallions In Air Fryer

Cooking pork tenderloin medallions in an air fryer is quick and easy, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a deliciously crispy exterior. 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.

Recipe Variations For Pork Tenderloin Medallions In Air Fryer

Breaded Pork Pork Tenderloin Medallions In Air Fryer: Coat the pork tenderloin medallions in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and then cover with seasoned breadcrumbs or Panko for a crispy exterior. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the breading is golden brown.
Costco Pork Tenderloin Medallions Air Fryer: Remove them from the package and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin Medallions In Air Fryer: Wrap each pork tenderloin medallion with a strip of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Pro Tips Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallion Recipe

Choose the Right Cut: Select a high-quality pork tenderloin, as this cut is naturally lean and tender. Look for one that is free from excess fat and silver skin, which should be trimmed before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
Consistent Thickness: Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions that are about 1 inch thick. Consistent thickness ensures even cooking, preventing some pieces from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the air fryer is at the optimal temperature for cooking, resulting in even cooking and a nice sear on the medallions.
Season Generously: Season the medallions with a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, and onion powder. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning, as it enhances the flavor of the pork.
Use Oil Sparingly: Lightly coat the medallions with olive oil or cooking spray. This helps the seasonings stick to the meat and promotes a crispy exterior without making the medallions greasy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the medallions in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Overcrowding can prevent even cooking and browning, as the hot air needs to circulate around each piece.
Flip Halfway Through: Flip the medallions halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly on both sides. This also helps in achieving a uniform texture.
Monitor Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the medallions. Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and allowed to rest for a few minutes to ensure it is safe to eat and remains juicy.
Rest Before Serving: Let the medallions rest for 5 minutes after cooking. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in more tender and flavorful medallions.
Experiment with Marinades and Rubs: Try different marinades or spice rubs to add variety and depth to your pork medallions. Marinating the pork for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) can infuse it with additional flavors and tenderize the meat.

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallion Recipe Faqs

Can I use a pre-marinated pork tenderloin for this recipe? Yes, you can use a pre-marinated pork tenderloin. Adjust the cooking time if needed, and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Pre-marinated pork can add extra flavor and save you time on preparation.

How long should I cook pork tenderloin medallions in the air fryer? Cook the pork tenderloin medallions at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The exact time may vary based on the thickness of the medallions, so always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Do I need to preheat the air fryer? Yes, preheating the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes ensures even cooking and helps achieve a good sear on the pork medallions.

Can I add vegetables to cook alongside the pork medallions? Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or green beans to cook alongside the pork medallions. Ensure they are cut into even pieces for consistent cooking and place them in a single layer around the medallions.

How do I ensure the medallions are evenly cooked? Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions of equal thickness, and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking.

How do I keep the pork medallions from drying out? Avoid overcooking the medallions by monitoring their internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Cooking them to exactly 145°F (63°C) and allowing them to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps retain their juices.

What are some good side dishes to serve with pork tenderloin medallions? Popular side dishes include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the flavors of the pork medallions and make for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use different spices or marinades? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices, rubs, or marinades to suit your taste. Marinading the pork for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) can add extra flavor and tenderize the meat.

How do I store and reheat leftover pork medallions? Store leftover pork medallions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes or until heated through to maintain their crispy texture.

Can I freeze pork tenderloin medallions? Yes, you can freeze cooked pork tenderloin medallions. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be reheated in the air fryer directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

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