Ingredients
Scale
- 3 to 4 lbs pork shoulder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). This air fryer temperature for pork shoulder ensures slow cooking that tenderizes the meat.
- If your pork shoulder has skin, score it lightly with a sharp knife. This is crucial for crispy pork shoulder crackling in air fryer.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Starting skin side up is important for moisture control and crispiness.
- Cook for about 25 minutes per pound. For a 3 lb pork shoulder, this means approximately 75 minutes. Air fry pork shoulder cooking times vary, so adjust based on the size of your meat.
- Halfway through cooking, check the meat and baste it with its own juices. This step contributes to a moist interior and a crispy exterior.
- In the last 20 minutes of cooking, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). This high air fryer temperature for pork shoulder helps achieve that sought-after crackling.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness. The importance of a meat thermometer can’t be overstated—it’s your best tool for precision cooking.
- Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite succulent.
Notes
These nutritional estimates provide a general guide to the pork shoulder’s nutritional content when prepared as described, making it easier to fit into various diet plans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 ounces (170 grams) cooked meat
- Calories: 330 per serving
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Air Fryer Pork Shoulder