Notes: We are currently in the development and testing stage for this pork butt air fryer recipe. Stay tuned for more updates. If you have any tips on making this dish even better, please leave us a comment below. We appreciate your input!
Happy frying!
Table of Contents
Ingredients for air fryer pork butt
Here are all you need to make easy air fried pork butt.
- Boneless pork butt
- Olive oil
- Pork dry rub
✦ You can find the exact measurements of the recipe ingredients and customize the serving size in the recipe card after the detailed step-by-step instructions section.
Substitutes
Can’t find a ready-made pork rub?
Create your own with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Customize the ratios to your liking and give your pork butt a personal touch. Usually, it’s 1:1 for the spices, except salt and pepper.
✦ If your air fryer can’t fit a 2-pound pork butt, you must cut it into two or quarters.
How to Cook Pork Butt in an Air Fryer?
Cooking up a storm with your air fryer has never been simpler. In fact, this air fryer pork Boston butt recipe practically does the dancing for you! Let’s dive into the juicy details:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 360ºF (182ºC).
If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheating option, set your desired temperature then let it cook for 5 minutes without food.
🚨 Important: Reduce the cooking temperature to 350°F (177°C) if you’re using a 4-quart air fryer or smaller. They are hotter due to the heating element being closer to the food.
Step 2: Prepare the ingredients.
First, pat the pork butt dry with paper towels. This step sets the foundation for a crisp and delectable exterior ready to capture all the flavorful attention.
Enhance the taste of your pork butt by applying a light coat of olive oil, letting it provide a moisture-rich base. Then generously sprinkle the ready-made pork rub over the pork butt.
Use your hands to gently massage the rub into every part of the meat, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This rub is the key to unlocking flavor in every bite, infusing the pork with a delicious blend of seasonings. Make sure to cover all the surfaces, leaving no spot untouched.
Step 3: Air fry pork butt for 360ºF (182ºC) for 45 minutes to an hour.
Place your perfectly seasoned pork butt in the air fryer basket. Set the timer for 45 – 60 minutes at 360ºF (182ºC) and let the air fryer work its magic.
Every 15 minutes, turn the pork butt for even browning all throughout. Â
🚨 Important: Ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe 145ºF (63ºC). But for extra juicy vibes, especially with this air fryer pork butt recipe, aim for around 160ºF (71ºC). Yep, we’re talking fork-tender goodness.Â
💡 Pro Tip: Harness the power of a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches the safety zone. Given the variety of factors at play—thickness being a notable player—this trusty tool becomes your best friend in achieving the best pork butt ever.Â
Step 4: Serve and enjoy!
After cooking, let your pork butt take a breather for 5 – 10 minutes. Doing so allows the juices to redistribute, flavors mingle, and tenderness to reach their peak.
Slice up, serve your air-fried pork butt masterpiece, and prepare to feast! Enjoy!
Related Pork Recipes
Freezing & Storage
Freezing: Got leftovers? Cool your cooked and sliced pork butt to room temperature, then wrap it snugly in plastic wrap and embrace with aluminum foil. Then, secure it in a freezer-safe bag and pop it into the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready for round two, thaw the pork in the refrigerator overnight. Then, follow the reheating instructions below.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Pop the leftovers in the air fryer and reheat at 350ºF (175ºC) for 5 – 10 minutes.
This ingredients checklist is interactive; you can use it as your grocery list.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless pork butt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ready-made pork rub
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 360ºF (182ºC) for approximately 5 minutes.
- Pat the pork dry with paper towels. Dryness is the key to a crispy exterior.
- Season the pork butt. Lightly brush (or drizzle) the pork butt with olive oil. Then, generously coat all sides of the pork butt with the ready-made pork rub. Ensure that every nook and cranny is seasoned well.
- Air fry the pork butt. Place the pork in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 360ºF (182ºC) and the timer for 45 – 60 minutes. Turn the pork every 15 minutes to ensure even browning all throughout.
- Check for doneness. Using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the meat. Once it reads 145ºF (63ºC), you can take the pork butt out of the air fryer OR finish the cooking until it reaches a more tender 160ºF (71ºC).
- Once cooked, let the pork butt rest at room temperature for 5 – 10 minutes. This step retains juices for a moist and tender result. Slice and serve alongside your favorite sides.
- Serve and enjoy your air-fried pork butt. Pair with your favorite sides to further elevate the recipe.
Notes
- Considering that cooking time varies depending on the meat’s thickness (and your air fryer’s specs), always check with a meat thermometer if your pork is cooked thoroughly. The pork’s safe internal temperature is a minimum of 145ºF (63ºC).
- If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheating option, you can set the temperature to 380°F (193°C) and then let it cook for 4-5 minutes without food.Â
- You can skip preheating by adding 2-4 minutes to your cooking time. Increment gradually to prevent burning the pork butt.
- I used a 6-quart (air fryer) to test the pork butt. Cooking time and temperature may vary depending on your air fryer and the number of servings you are making. For optimal results, begin with the lower end of the suggested cooking time.
Nutrition
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