The first time I made Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions, it was a chilly Tuesday night after my kids’ soccer practice, and the kitchen was filled with the unmistakable aroma of a homecooked meal. These flavorful little rounds are popular on Pinterestand for good reason. They cook in under 15 minutes, the outside gets lightly crispy, and the inside stays juicy and tender. It’s a fuss-free, family-favorite dinner with a modern twist.
This easy recipe begins with classic pork tenderloin, a splash of olive oil, garlic powder, and pantry staples you likely have on hand. No marinating or brining required. Think of it as a blend between seared chops and a slow Sunday roastdone way faster. The full method is just below, so let’s dive in!
I first learned how to trim a tenderloin while standing on a stool beside my grandmaflour dust in my hair, her laugh in the air. These memories inspire every recipe I test. I’ve tested this one three times to make sure it’s practical, quick, and foolproof. And yes, I’ve added a trick to lock in the perfect texture. Trust me, you’ll love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions is one of those “wow, that was easy” dinners you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation. It’s a favorite around hereand here’s why:
Quick and simple: Done in just 15-17 minutes start to finisheven faster than preheating your oven.
Cozy and comforting: Juicy, tender pork medallions with a lightly crisp, herb-infused crustideal for weeknight family dinners.
Health-friendly: Naturally lean protein, gluten-free, and free from heavy sauces.
Minimal tools: All you need is an air fryer, a few basic seasonings, and a knife.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple and flavorful. Here’s your ingredient checklist:
Ingredient
Notes
1 pound pork tenderloin
Trim off any silver skin for the most tender, evenly cooked medallions.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Helps seasonings stick and enhances moisture and flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Adds savory depth and enhances the meat’s natural flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder
Offers a mild sweetness and balanced umami for well-rounded seasoning.
1 teaspoon paprika
Gives a beautiful color and mild smoky flavor; use smoked paprika if preferred.
Salt and pepper
Essential for enhancing all the ingredients; adjust to your taste.
Pro Tip: For even bolder flavor, you can marinate the meat with the spice blend a few hours ahead or overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This crowd-pleasing pork dish comes together quickly. Set your air fryer and follow these easy steps:
Preheat your air fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat while you prep, about 3–5 minutes.
Slice the tenderloin: Using a sharp knife, slice pork crosswise into 1-inch-thick medallions for consistent cooking.
Season the pork: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the pork medallions and toss thoroughly to coat.
Arrange in the air fryer: Place medallions in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overlap. Cook in batches if necessary for even airflow.
Cook the medallions: Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through (after about 6 minutes). The ideal internal temperature is 145°F (63°C).
Let meat rest: Remove the pork and let it rest for 5 minutes before servingthis locks in the juices for ultimate tenderness.
Step
Task
Timing
1
Preheat air fryer
3–5 minutes
2–3
Slice and season pork
5 minutes
4–5
Cook medallions
10–12 minutes
6
Rest meat
5 minutes
Serving and Storage Tips
These Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions are flexible enough for a weeknight dinner or planned leftovers. Here’s how to serve and store them right:
Serving Suggestions:
Cozy dinner option: Serve with mashed red potatoes and sautéed green beans.
Light and fresh: Pair with a quinoa salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette.
Creative leftovers: Add sliced medallions to wraps, grain bowls, or even breakfast hash the next day.
Storing Leftovers:
Method
How-To
Duration
Refrigerator
Store medallions in an airtight container after fully cooling.
Up to 3 days
Freezer
Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper if needed.
Up to 3 months
Reheating
Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
As needed
Note: Always allow medallions to cool fully before storing, and avoid stacking while warm to preserve texture.
Expert Insight: Perfecting Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions
Pork tenderloin is naturally tender and lean, making it ideal for air frying. By slicing it into medallions and trimming excess fat, you ensure each piece cooks evenly and retains maximum juiciness. Even heat circulation in the air fryer gives that golden outer sear without drying the meat out. It’s a simple technique with restaurant-worthy results.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
Mastering the Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions
After several kitchen tests and a few too-crisp batches, I finally nailed the timing and texture for these air fryer pork tenderloin medallions. With gentle tweaks and attention to detail, I found the sweet spot for juicy insides and golden-brown edgesa simple, comforting meal that brings balance and warmth every time.
Wrapping Up Your Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions
These Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions are weeknight golddone in under 15 minutes with juicy centers and perfectly seasoned crusts. A quick, satisfying win that fits the bustle of busy days and the calm of cozy evenings.
Craving a smoky twist? Swap the paprika for smoked chili powder, or sprinkle freshly chopped rosemary over the top just before serving. Reheat leftovers easily in the air fryer and enjoy flavorful lunches all week longjust like the family-style meals I grew up loving.
Have your own twist or memory with pork medallions? Snap a photo, tag it, and keep traditions going. Because nothing feels more like home than sharing a homemade meal made with care.
Olivia Farnsworth
Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Medallions: Easy Delicious Recipe
Enjoy tender and flavorful pork medallions cooked quickly in the air fryer. This gluten-free, easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight tenderloin meal.
