Gather these simple ingredients to create your mouthwatering air fryer pork shoulder roast:

• 1½ lbs boneless pork shoulder (approximately 680g; seasoned or plain)

If your pork shoulder is unseasoned, you will also need the following for a robust and flavorful rub:

• Cooking oil spray: Essential for helping the seasoning adhere and promoting a crispy crust.
• ½ tablespoon paprika: Adds a sweet, smoky depth and a vibrant color to the crust.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps draw out moisture for crisping.
• 1 teaspoon light brown sugar, packed: Balances the savory spices and aids in caramelization for a richer, sweeter crust.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A foundational flavor that complements pork beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon chili powder: Provides a mild warmth and complex spice profile. Adjust to your heat preference.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A classic seasoning that adds a sharp, earthy note.

For best results, use a fatty cut like pork shoulder or pork butt. Avoid leaner cuts such as pork loin, tenderloin, or sirloin, as these can dry out quickly during the extended cooking required for a roast. The fat content in pork shoulder is key to keeping it moist and tender in the air fryer.

Prepare the Pork

Remove the pork shoulder from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for 40-60 minutes before cooking. This crucial step helps the meat cook more evenly and prevents it from seizing up when introduced to heat. There’s no need to score the fat cap or tie the roast for this recipe.

Air Fry to Perfection

Carefully place the seasoned pork shoulder into your air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes. After the first 20 minutes, flip the roast to ensure even cooking and browning. Continue flipping every 10 minutes until the desired doneness is reached. If you notice the roast starting to dry out at any point, mist it with a little additional cooking spray to keep it moist and promote further crisping.

Rest and Serve

Once the pork shoulder reaches the correct internal temperature, remove it from the air fryer. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period is critical; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is incredibly moist and flavorful. You’ll find this delicious pork is fantastic even without gravy!

Air Fryer Pork Shoulder Roast Recipe

Summer Yule

My air fryer pork shoulder is the quick and easy way to enjoy a pork roast. With a crispy, flavorful crust and tender, juicy slices, this dish is perfect for a fuss-free Sunday dinner.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars from 10 votes

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless pork shoulder (680g; seasoned or plain)

If unseasoned you also need:

• cooking oil spray
• ½ tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon light brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Let the pork rest at room temperature for 40-60 minutes before cooking. There’s no need to score it or tie it.
2. If using unseasoned pork, pat it dry with paper towels. Combine paprika, salt, brown sugar, garlic powder, chili powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Mist the pork with cooking oil spray and rub the seasoning blend evenly over the meat. Rub as much of the seasoning blend as you’d like all over the pork; I used all of it.
3. Place the pork shoulder in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes, flipping the roast after 20 minutes. Continue flipping every 10 minutes until done. If the roast starts to dry out, mist it with additional cooking spray.
4. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If the roast isn’t done after an hour, slice the undercooked portion and air fry the slices separately to avoid drying out the edges.
5. Tent the cooked pork with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Kitchen Thermometer
• Foil

Notes

💭 Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule

This is a level 3 recipe (weight maintenance and active lifestyles). While pork shoulder is a fattier cut, it’s packed with essential nutrients:

• B Vitamins: An excellent source of thiamin, niacin, B6, and B12, crucial for energy metabolism and nerve function.
• Minerals: High in phosphorus, potassium, and zinc, supporting bone health, fluid balance, and immune function.
• Protein Powerhouse: A fantastic choice for high-protein diets, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Keto and Low Carb-Friendly: Pair with non-starchy vegetables for a balanced, delicious, and low-carb meal.

Nutrition information is for one serving.

Nutrition

Keywords

air fryer pork roast, air fryer pork shoulder, crispy pork shoulder, pork shoulder air fryer, easy pork shoulder recipe, quick pork roast

🥗 Delicious Side Dishes for Air Fryer Pork Shoulder

A perfectly roasted pork shoulder deserves equally delicious companions. Here are some fantastic side dish ideas to complement your air fryer pork roast, creating a complete and satisfying meal:

• Homemade Unsweetened Applesauce Recipe: The classic pairing! The sweet and tart notes of applesauce cut through the richness of the pork beautifully.
• Applesauce Substitute (Pear Sauce): For a slightly different twist, homemade pear sauce offers a delicate sweetness that pairs wonderfully.
• Air Fryer Cornbread: A warm, slightly sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up any delicious juices.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: A comforting classic that makes any roast feel like a special occasion.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and tender texture offer a great contrast to the savory pork.
• Air Fryer Butternut Squash: A hearty and flavorful vegetable side that roasts up quickly in the air fryer.
• Fresh Corn on the Cob: A simple, seasonal choice that adds a touch of freshness and sweetness.
• Steamed Green Beans with Garlic: A light and healthy option that balances the richness of the meat.
• Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint.

👩🏻‍🍳 Other Air Fryer Pork Recipes to Try

If you’ve loved making pork shoulder in your air fryer, you’ll be excited to explore other delicious pork recipes perfectly suited for this versatile appliance:

• Air Fryer Sausage Meat: Quick and easy for breakfast or as an ingredient in other dishes.
• Air Fryer Precooked Brats: Get perfectly browned brats with minimal fuss.
• Pork Belly Air Fryer Recipe: Achieve incredible crispy pork belly that’s juicy inside.
• Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin: A gourmet-looking dish that’s surprisingly simple to make.

For other fantastic roast options, don’t miss my divine Air Fryer Roast Beef recipe. And if you happen to have any delicious pork shoulder leftovers, give my Pulled Pork Salad a try for a fresh, flavorful, and creative twist!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions about cooking pork shoulder in an air fryer:

What is the best temperature for cooking pork shoulder in an air fryer?

For a boneless pork shoulder, a temperature of 350°F (175°C) is generally ideal. This allows the meat to cook through evenly while developing a beautifully crispy crust without drying out too quickly. For smaller, thinner pieces, you might go slightly higher for a shorter time, but 350°F offers a good balance.

How long does it take to cook a 1.5 lb pork shoulder in an air fryer?

A 1.5-pound (680g) boneless pork shoulder typically takes between 30-45 minutes to cook in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C). The exact time will depend on the thickness of your roast and your specific air fryer model. Always rely on a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for doneness.

Can I make pulled pork from air fryer pork shoulder?

This particular recipe for air fryer pork shoulder is designed for slicing rather than shredding. While pork shoulder is often used for pulled pork, achieving that fall-apart texture usually requires slow cooking methods (like a slow cooker or oven braise) at lower temperatures for several hours, until the internal temperature reaches 200-205°F (93-96°C). The air fryer’s quick, high-heat cooking for this recipe produces tender slices, not shredded pork.

How do I store and reheat air fryer pork shoulder leftovers?

Store leftover air fryer pork shoulder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the pork if it’s not already, and warm it gently in the microwave or in a pan on the stovetop over low heat. To prevent it from drying out, add a splash of broth, water, or your favorite sauce to the pan or microwave-safe dish before reheating.

Can I use a marinade instead of a dry rub?

Yes, you can absolutely marinate your pork shoulder before air frying! A marinade can add moisture and infuse deep flavors. After marinating, be sure to pat the pork very dry before placing it in the air fryer to ensure you still get a crispy exterior. Some marinades may also contain sugar, which can cause faster browning, so monitor closely.