How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer Crispy Pecan-Crusted Stuffed Pork Tenderloin

Name: Air Fryer Crispy Pecan-Crusted Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 to 1.25 lbs), trimmed and butterflied; 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 2 green onions, finely sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme); 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 17, 2026 | Updated Jun 17, 2026

A pork tenderloin stuffed with savory herbs and cheese, coated in a crisp pecan crust and air fried to perfection in just 30 minutes. This gourmet recipe is an easy meal prep option boasting a crunchy texture and rich flavor.

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Air fryerAmericanEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time12 mins

Cook Time18 mins

Total Time30 mins

Servings4

Temperature400°F / 200°C

Ingredients

Servings4

1 pork tenderloin (about 1 to 1.25 lbs), trimmed and butterflied
1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
2 green onions, finely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

Butterfly the pork tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise but not all the way through, then open it like a book.
Place a piece of plastic wrap over the tenderloin and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about 1/2 inch thick and even.
In a medium bowl, mix together chopped pecans, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, green onions, minced garlic, thyme, and Dijon mustard until well blended.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the inside of the butterflied tenderloin.
Roll the tenderloin tightly from one long side to the other, enclosing the stuffing completely.
Brush the rolled tenderloin lightly with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil.
Press the pecan and Parmesan mixture firmly onto the outside of the pork roll, evenly coating all sides.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Place the stuffed pork tenderloin seam side down in the air fryer basket. Brush the top with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil.
Air fry for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through, until the pecan crust is golden and a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 145°F (63°C).
Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into medallions.
Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy a crispy, flavorful meal.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the pork tenderloin dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer Crispy Pecan-Crusted Stuffed Pork Tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer Crispy Pecan-Crusted Stuffed Pork Tenderloin ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.