Can You Air Fry Pork Roast?
Yes! You can make a mouthwatering air fryer roast pork that is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. This recipe uses pork shoulder and is a much faster method compared to slow cooking. Discover the best temperature to cook pork roast, perfect side dishes to pair with roast pork shoulder, and more!
Have you ever tried cooking pork shoulder in an air fryer? Air frying is a fantastic cooking technique when you want a hassle-free roast dinner.
One of my favorite ways to cook pork shoulder is in the crockpot or Instant Pot. However, if you forget to put the pork roast in the slow cooker before heading to work, you’ll have to save it for Sunday dinner. But with this air fryer roasted pork, you can enjoy it any time of the week. It only takes one hour!
The result is moist slices of pork roast with a delicious crispy crust. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option.
Calories, Net Carbs, Protein
One serving of Air Fryer Pork Roast contains approximately 310 calories, 0.3 grams of net carbs, and 48.6 grams of protein (per Cronometer). Please note that these nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on factors such as the amount of fat that drips from the roast during cooking.
Benefits
Why should you make air fryer roast pork? Despite its reputation as an “unhealthy food,” pork shoulder offers several nutritional benefits. Here are a few reasons why I love this recipe:
- Rich in B-complex vitamins: This pork roast is an excellent source of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12.
- Essential minerals: It’s packed with phosphorus, potassium, zinc, iron, and magnesium.
- High in protein: A great option for those looking for a high-protein main dish.
- Suitable for various diets: This recipe works well for keto, low-carb, Paleo, and gluten-free diets.
- Frees up the oven: With the main dish in the air fryer, you can use your oven to prepare other side dishes.
- Fast and convenient: Air frying is one of the quickest ways to cook a pork roast.
- Delicious: Simply put, pork roast is flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
To make air fryer pork roast, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Skinless and boneless pork shoulder or Boston butt
- Olive oil
- Chili powder
- Ground coriander powder
- Salt and black pepper
Make sure to choose a fatty cut of pork for this recipe. Leaner cuts like pork loin or tenderloin won’t yield the same moist results. Additionally, using the right size of roast is crucial for optimal cooking.
Pork Butt vs. Pork Shoulder
According to Cook’s Illustrated, both pork butt (or Boston butt) and pork shoulder come from the shoulder of the pig. However, pork shoulder comes from farther down the foreleg than pork butt. For this recipe, either cut can be used as long as it’s boneless.
Equipment
To make pork roast in the air fryer, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Air fryer
- Tongs or spatula
- Foil
- Meat thermometer
Using a meat thermometer is important to ensure your roast reaches the minimum safe internal temperature.
How to Make Air Fryer Pork Roast
Let’s learn how to air fry roast pork! This recipe is incredibly easy, and you’ll be amazed by the results.
- Before you begin, let your pork roast rest at room temperature for one hour. This step helps it cook more evenly.
- Rub the netted pork with olive oil on all sides.
- In a bowl, mix together chili powder, coriander powder, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoning blend. Rub it all over the pork.
- Place the pork roast on your air fryer tray and get ready to air fry!
Cooking Time and Temperature
How long does it take to cook pork roast in the air fryer, and what temperature should you use? This pork shoulder roast requires approximately 50-60 minutes of cooking time at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175C) in the air fryer.
Flip the roast three or four times during the cooking process to ensure even browning. You may need to brush the roast with additional oil if it appears to be drying out too much.
Use a meat thermometer to check if the roast has reached the minimum safe internal temperature for pork roasts, which is 145F (63C). If the middle portion of the roast isn’t fully cooked, slice it and air fry the slices separately to avoid overcooking the outer edges. After air frying, let the pork roast rest for 10 minutes, then remove the netting and slice it.
Leftovers and Reheating
Roast pork will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in a covered container. You can use the leftovers in salads, sandwiches, casseroles, hash, or wraps.
To reheat the pork roast while keeping it moist, do it slowly with a source of added moisture. You can use broth, water, or sauces to prevent the meat from drying out.
Seasoning and Side Dishes
If you prefer different flavors for your pork roast, feel free to experiment with other seasonings. Some options include garlic, BBQ seasoning, steak seasoning, Italian seasoning, Cajun spice, rosemary, sage, thyme, parsley, basil, oregano, or classic salt and black pepper.
As for side dishes, there are plenty of options that pair well with pork roast. Consider serving it with slow cooker applesauce, slow cooker pear sauce, air fryer cornbread, mashed potatoes and gravy, roasted sweet potatoes, air fryer squash, or corn on the cob.
Expert Tips from a Dietitian
Pork shoulder and pork butt are fattier cuts of pork, but they offer significant nutritional value in terms of protein, B vitamins, and minerals. If you’re aiming for a low-calorie or low-carb meal, complement your pork roast with non-starchy veggies like a garden salad or roasted non-starchy vegetables.
For individuals needing a higher energy meal, such as active adults, children, teens, or those looking to gain weight, adding whole food carbs is recommended. Healthy carbohydrate-rich options include corn, rice, winter squash, sweet potatoes, and mashed potatoes. These foods provide more calories in a smaller serving compared to non-starchy vegetables.
Although this pork roast is a fatty meat, it can be incorporated into both low and high-calorie meals, making it a versatile protein option for the whole family.
FAQs
Got more questions about air fryer pork recipes? Here are some frequently asked questions:
Other Air Fryer Pork Recipes
If you’re craving more air fryer pork recipes, try these next:
- Sausage Patties in Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Brats
- Pork Belly Air Fryer Recipe
Additionally, if you’re interested in more air fryer roast recipes, you’ll love the air fryer roast beef recipe.
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The Disclaimer…
Please note that all recipes on this website may or may not be suitable for your specific needs and preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician for personalized dietary advice.
The provided nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients you use. Calorie information on food labels can sometimes be inaccurate, so don’t worry too much about the numbers.
For more information on how the recipe levels can help with your weight management goals, refer to my post on overnight oats without sugar. Now, let’s get cooking!
Recipe
Note: To view the complete recipe with detailed instructions, please visit Hook’d Up Bar and Grill.