Crispy, golden, and perfectly juicy, this Air Fryer Pork Tonkatsu (pork katsu) gives you that classic crunchy coating without deep frying. Made with simple ingredients and served with a tangy tonkatsu sauce, it's an easy 30-minute dinner that works for weeknights or casual entertaining.
1pork tenderloin(cut lengthwise, then into 6 pieces)
½cupall-purpose flour
½teaspoonsalt
¼teaspoonblack pepper
2largeeggsbeaten
2cupsPanko breadcrumbs
Avocado oil spray
For the Tonkatsu Sauce
½cupketchup
1tablespoonWorcestershire sauce
1tablespoonsoy sauce
2½tablespoonsbrown sugar
½teaspoongarlic powder
Instructions
Slice the pork tenderloin in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3 equal pieces to make 6 portions. Place each piece of pork between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps it cook evenly and stay tender.
Set up a dredging station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each piece of pork in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the eggs, and press firmly into the panko so the coating sticks well.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
Place the breaded pork in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with avocado oil spray. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip, spray again, and cook for another 7 minutes or until the pork is golden brown and crispy. For best results, cook in batches if needed, depending on the size of your air fryer. Note: The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
While the pork cooks, whisk together the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder in a small saucepan until smooth. Heat slowly on the stove until warm.
Slice the pork into strips and serve warm with the tonkatsu sauce for dipping or drizzling.
Notes
Pork. Pounding the pork to an even thickness helps it cook evenly and stay tender. Trim off any silverskin or excess fat before breading.
Coating. Press the panko firmly onto the pork so it sticks well and crisps up properly in the air fryer.
Air Fryer. Cook the pork in a single layer for the best results. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Doneness. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy and let it rest briefly before slicing to keep it juicy.