Air Fryer Frozen Pork Tenderloin -

sliced pork tenderloin with thyme on top

5 from 4 votes

Air Fryer Frozen Pork Tenderloin

This Air Fryer Frozen Pork Tenderloin is the ultimate high-protein, no-thaw dinner solution. It cooks straight from frozen in under 45 minutes, giving you a crispy outside and juicy, tender center using just a few simple ingredients and your air fryer. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy, flavorful meal fast.

Prep Time5

Cook Time40

Course: Air Fryer, air fryer frozen foods, Main Course, pork

Cuisine: American

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Servings: Servings

Calories: 159kcal

Author: Valerie Skinner

Equipment

Air fryer (6-quart or larger)
Tongs
Instant-read meat thermometer
cutting board
sharp knife
Small bowl (for mixing rub, if making your own)
Pastry brush or silicone brush
Paper Towels
Aluminum foil (optional for resting)

Ingredients

1.5 pounds pork tenderloin frozen
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F and let it preheat for about 3–5 minutes.
Begin cooking from frozen: Place the frozen pork tenderloin directly into the air fryer basket, no need to thaw. Cook at 350°F for 20 minutes. This jumpstarts the defrosting process and helps the outer layer soften just enough for seasoning.
Season the pork tenderloin: After the first 20 minutes, carefully remove the tenderloin using tongs and place it on a cutting board. Brush all sides with olive oil or avocado oil, then sprinkle on your favorite dry rub or seasoning blend, making sure to coat every side for the most flavor. If you have a wireless meat thermometer, place it into the thickest part now.
Finish cooking at a higher temperature: Return the seasoned pork tenderloin to the air fryer. Increase the temperature to 375°F and cook for an additional 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat. The pork is ready when the internal temperature reaches 145°F but you can cook it to your desired temperature.
Rest before slicing: Once fully cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then slice, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition