Easy and Juicy Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin

Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin is the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. It delivers a juicy, tender center with a perfectly seared crust, all in under 1 hour. This tender, juicy cut of beef is often reserved for special occasions, but with the air fryer, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen—no stress, no hassle.

If you’re hosting a holiday dinner, celebrating a special moment, or just treating yourself to a luxurious meal, this recipe will deliver perfectly cooked beef tenderloin with a beautifully seared crust every time. Let’s get into how you can make this simple yet elegant dish in just a few steps!

I love easy air fryer meals, and these are two of my favorites! The Air Fryer Kielbasa comes out perfectly crispy and juicy, while the Frozen Meatballs in Air Fryer make dinner a breeze!

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Can You Cook a Tenderloin in The Air Fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook a tenderloin in the air fryer, and it’s one of the best ways to achieve perfectly juicy, tender meat with minimal effort. The air fryer’s circulating heat cooks the tenderloin evenly, giving it a beautifully caramelized crust while locking in moisture.The air fryer makes the process quick, efficient, and foolproof. Just season the tenderloin, pop it in the air fryer, and cook to your preferred doneness—it’s that simple!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin, you only need a handful of high-quality ingredients:

• Beef Tenderloin (2–3 lbs): Trimmed and tied for even cooking. Ask your butcher for a center-cut tenderloin for the best results.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps the seasoning stick and promotes a golden crust.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Adds subtle savory flavor.
• Paprika (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor with a smoky touch.
• Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (2 sprigs): Optional, but adds a fragrant, earthy aroma.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season generously for the best flavor.

Optional Add-Ons: A dollop of garlic butter or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for serving.

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How to Make Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin

This recipe couldn’t be easier! Just Follow these instructions to create the best Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin:

Prep the Tenderloin

Pat your beef tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is important for achieving a crispy crust. Rub the tenderloin all over with some olive oil, then season generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, tuck sprigs of rosemary or thyme under the butcher’s twine.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F and preheat it for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps create a golden-brown crust.

Cook the Tenderloin

Place the seasoned tenderloin in the air fryer basket. Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check the internal temperature with meat thermometer ;125°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium.

Rest the Meat

Remove the tenderloin from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes. This really helps the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Slice and Serve

Slice the tenderloin into thick medallions and serve immediately with your favorite sides and garnishes.

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What to Serve with Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin is rich and flavorful, so pairing it with complementary sides is key. For a classic steakhouse experience, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or a baked potato loaded with butter and sour cream. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or baby carrots add vibrant colors and earthy flavors. Want something lighter? A fresh side salad with balsamic vinaigrette works beautifully. Don’t forget the bread—crusty dinner rolls or garlic bread are perfect for soaking up those juices.

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Storing and Freezing Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin

To Store: Place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To Freeze: Wrap the cooked tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

To Reheat: Warm the tenderloin gently in the air fryer at 300°F for 3–5 minutes. For the best results, avoid overcooking while reheating.

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How to Reheat Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin

Reheating tenderloin without drying it out is key. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F then place the sliced tenderloin inside. Heat for 4 minutes, just until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw the tenderloin in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Recipe Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Swap the garlic powder and paprika for a steak rub or Montreal seasoning if you prefer bolder flavors. For a crustier exterior, sear the tenderloin in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side before placing it in the air fryer. You can also add a Dijon mustard crust by brushing the tenderloin with mustard before seasoning it. If you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle a red wine reduction or béarnaise sauce over the slices for a fine-dining experience at home.

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FAQs About Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin

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Air Fryer Beef Tenderloin is proof that cooking an elegant, restaurant-quality meal at home doesn’t have to be complicated. With its perfectly seared crust and juicy, tender interior, this dish is perfect for special occasions or anytime you want to treat yourself to something amazing.

Try this recipe, and let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear your thoughts and any twists you added!

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