Let me tell you about the first time I tried stuffing pork with apricots, feta, and pistachios. It was one of those “why didn’t I think of this sooner?” moments. The sweet tang of apricots, the creamy saltiness of feta, and the nutty crunch of pistachios come together in a way that feels almost magical. And when you cook it in the air fryer? Oh, wow. The pork stays so juicy and tender, and the stuffing gets this incredible caramelized edge that’s just irresistible.
I love how the air fryer makes this dish so quick and hassle-free. No need to babysit the oven or worry about drying out the meat. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but fancy enough to impress guests. Trust me, once you try this air fryer pork with apricot feta pistachio stuffing, it’ll become a regular in your rotation. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and just a little bit fancy. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Pork with Apricot Feta Pistachio Stuffing
This air fryer pork with apricot feta pistachio stuffing is a game-changer, and here’s why:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for those busy nights when you need something delicious fast.
- Unforgettable Flavors: The sweet apricots, creamy feta, and crunchy pistachios create a combo that’s both unique and totally crave-worthy.
- Juicy Every Time: The air fryer locks in moisture, giving you tender pork with a golden, crispy exterior.
- Minimal Cleanup: One appliance does it all, so you’re left with more time to enjoy your meal (and less time scrubbing pans).
- Impressive Yet Simple: It looks and tastes gourmet, but it’s so straightforward to make—even on a weeknight.
Trust me, this dish is going to win you over in every way!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Pork with Apricot Feta Pistachio Stuffing
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavor-packed dish:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin: The star of the show—look for one that’s evenly sized for even cooking.
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped: Go for the soft, chewy kind—they add the perfect sweetness.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: The tangy, salty bite that balances the apricots perfectly.
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped: Adds a nutty crunch that ties everything together.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For rubbing the pork—it helps create that gorgeous golden crust.
- 1 tsp salt: Just enough to enhance all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: A little kick to keep things interesting.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Because everything’s better with garlic.
That’s it! Simple ingredients, but trust me, they come together in the most delicious way.
How to Make Air Fryer Pork with Apricot Feta Pistachio Stuffing
Okay, let’s get down to business—this dish comes together so easily, but I’ll walk you through every step to make sure it’s perfect. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making this on repeat!
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First, crank that air fryer up to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grab your pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and gives you a better sear. Now, here’s the fun part—creating the pocket for all that glorious stuffing.
Step 2: Cut the Pocket (Like a Pro!)
Lay the pork flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make a deep slit lengthwise down the center, but don’t cut all the way through—you want to leave about a half-inch on the sides and bottom. Think of it like opening a book. This pocket is where all the magic happens!
Step 3: Stuff It Up
In a small bowl, mix together the chopped apricots, crumbled feta, and pistachios. Now, spoon this mixture into the pork pocket, packing it gently but firmly. Don’t overstuff it, or the filling might spill out during cooking—just enough so it’s snug but not bursting.
Step 4: Season and Oil
Rub the outside of the pork with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This little massage ensures every bite is flavorful and helps that gorgeous golden crust form.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Carefully place the pork in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Here’s my golden rule: use a meat thermometer to check the internal temp. It should hit 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part. That’s your cue for juicy, perfectly cooked pork!
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing. I know, I know—it’s hard to wait when it smells this good, but trust me, this keeps all those juices locked in. Then, slice into medallions and watch that stuffing stay perfectly in place. Serve it up and prepare for compliments!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pork with Apricot Feta Pistachio Stuffing
After making this dish countless times (yes, it’s *that* good), I’ve picked up a few tricks to nail it every single time. Here’s what I’ve learned:
Cut that pocket deep—but not too deep! You want enough room for all that delicious apricot feta pistachio stuffing, but leave about a half-inch border so it doesn’t spill out mid-cook. If you’re nervous, use a spoon to gently widen the pocket—just don’t tear through!
Thicker pork? No problem. If your tenderloin is on the plumper side, add 2-3 extra minutes to the cook time. And *always* use a meat thermometer—145°F is the sweet spot for juicy pork. Anything more, and you risk drying it out.
Let it rest! I know it’s tempting to slice right into that golden beauty, but waiting 5 minutes lets the juices redistribute. Otherwise, all those gorgeous flavors will end up on your cutting board instead of in your mouth.
Air fryer sizes vary, so if yours runs hot, check the pork a few minutes early. Better safe than sorry!
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Air Fryer Pork
One of the best things about this dish? It’s super flexible! Here’s how to tweak it based on what you’ve got (or don’t got) in your kitchen:
Apricots: Out of them? Dried cranberries or even chopped dates work beautifully—just stick with something sweet and chewy. Fresh apricots? Skip ’em—they’re too juicy and will make the stuffing soggy.
Feta: Not a fan? Goat cheese or even ricotta salata would be dreamy. For dairy-free, try crumbled tofu with a squeeze of lemon and extra salt for that tangy kick.
Pistachios: Almonds or walnuts make great backups. Just toast them first for extra crunch! Nut-free? Pepitas (pumpkin seeds) add a similar texture without the nuts.
Pork tenderloin: Chicken breasts (pounded flat) or even thick pork chops can work—just adjust cook time accordingly. And if you’re feeling wild? This stuffing would be *amazing* inside a butterflied chicken thigh!
See? No stress—just deliciousness, no matter what you swap in!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Pork with Apricot Feta Pistachio Stuffing
This air fryer pork with apricot feta pistachio stuffing is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. Here’s how I love to serve it:
For something fresh, try a crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette—it cuts through the richness beautifully. Roasted veggies, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, add a cozy, caramelized touch. And if you’re feeling indulgent, garlic mashed potatoes are *chef’s kiss* perfection.
Wine lovers, take note: a light white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the sweet and savory flavors without overpowering them. Trust me, this combo is a dinner party waiting to happen!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This air fryer pork with apricot feta pistachio stuffing keeps beautifully. Just pop any slices into an airtight container—they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to reheat, skip the microwave (unless you love soggy pork—no judgment!). Instead, toss the slices back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to revive that crispy exterior. No air fryer? A quick 5-minute stint in a 375°F oven works too. Just cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Pro tip: Sprinkle a tiny bit of water over the pork before reheating—it helps keep things juicy!
Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Pork with Apricot Feta Pistachio Stuffing
Here’s the scoop on what you’re getting with each serving of this delicious dish (about half the tenderloin):
- 420 calories – Satisfying without being heavy
- 22g fat (6g saturated, 14g unsaturated) – Thanks to those healthy pistachios and olive oil
- 38g protein – Perfect for keeping you full
- 18g carbs (3g fiber) – Mostly from those sweet apricots
- 12g sugar – Natural sugars from the dried fruit
Quick heads up: These numbers are estimates—your exact nutrition may vary slightly depending on your specific ingredients and brands. But one thing’s for sure: this meal packs flavor AND nutrition in every bite!
FAQ About Air Fryer Pork with Apricot Feta Pistachio Stuffing
I get asked about this recipe all the time—so here are the answers to the most common questions that pop up:
Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts (butterflied or pounded thin) work great—just reduce the cook time to about 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temp hits 165°F. Thighs would be even juicier if you don’t mind a longer cook time. The apricot-feta-pistachio stuffing pairs beautifully with poultry!
Can I prep the stuffing ahead of time?
You bet! Mix the apricots, feta, and pistachios up to 2 days in advance—just store them in the fridge in an airtight container. If the nuts lose their crunch, give them a quick toast before stuffing. Pro tip: Don’t stuff the pork until right before cooking, or the salt in the feta can draw out moisture.
My filling keeps falling out—help!
Two tricks: 1) Don’t overstuff—pack it snug but not bursting. 2) Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed (just remember to remove them before serving!). A little spillage is normal, though—those crispy bits are chef’s perks!
Can I make this dairy-free?
Easy swap! Skip the feta and use dairy-free cheese, or go bold with olives or sun-dried tomatoes for that salty bite. The apricots and pistachios still shine!
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries! Roast it at 375°F in the oven for 25-30 minutes—just use a rack so the bottom doesn’t steam. The crust won’t be *quite* as crisp, but the flavors will still wow!
Share Your Air Fryer Pork with Apricot Feta Pistachio Stuffing Experience
Okay, now it’s your turn! Did you try this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you—did the apricots caramelize just right? Did you sneak in any fun twists? Drop a comment below or tag me on social media with your masterpiece. And hey, if you loved it as much as I do, give it a rating—it helps other home cooks find this gem too. Happy cooking, friends!
Print
30-Minute Air Fryer Pork with Heavenly Apricot Pistachio Stuffing
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A flavorful pork dish stuffed with a sweet and savory mix of apricots, feta, and pistachios, cooked to perfection in an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut a deep slit lengthwise in the pork tenderloin to create a pocket for stuffing.
- Mix apricots, feta, and pistachios in a bowl. Stuff the mixture into the pork pocket.
- Rub the pork with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place pork in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
- Substitute dried cranberries for apricots if desired.
- If pork is thick, extend cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 pork tenderloin
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: air fryer pork, stuffed pork, apricot feta pork, pistachio stuffing