Shresded Pork Shoulder Air Fryer Recipe

The Shredded Pork Shoulder Air Fryer Recipe is a game-changer for home cooks looking to prepare a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, rice bowls, or even as a standalone dish, this recipe delivers a smoky, savory flavor that rivals traditional slow-cooking methods, but in a fraction of the time. Using the air fryer ensures a beautifully crisp outer crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a backyard barbecue, or meal prep for the week, this dish is versatile, delicious, and surprisingly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time.

---

Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 325
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Sugar: 1g

---

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time: 45 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
• Cuisine: American, Mexican-inspired
• Course: Main Dish
• Servings: 6

---

Equipment

• Air fryer (large capacity recommended)
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs or a spatula
• Aluminum foil

---

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork shoulder (boneless or bone-in)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• ½ cup chicken broth or water (to moisten meat if needed during shredding)

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder

1. Place the pork shoulder on a cutting board. Trim off excess fat if desired, but leave some for flavor.
2. Pat the pork dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp exterior during cooking.

Step 2: Season the Meat

1. In a mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar (if using).
2. Drizzle olive oil over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Rub the spice mixture all over the meat, pressing it into the surface to form a crust.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pork Shoulder

1. Place the pork shoulder in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation.
2. Cook for 25 minutes at 375°F.
3. After 25 minutes, flip the pork shoulder using tongs or a spatula for even cooking. Cook for an additional 20 minutes.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

1. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the pork shoulder. It should read at least 190°F (88°C) for shreddable, tender meat. If not, continue cooking in 5-minute increments until the desired temperature is reached.

Step 6: Rest the Meat

1. Once cooked, remove the pork shoulder from the air fryer and loosely tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Step 7: Shred the Pork

1. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. If the meat seems dry, add ½ cup of chicken broth or water to moisten it.

---

Serving Suggestions

The shredded pork can be served in a variety of ways:

• Tacos: Pile the pork onto warm tortillas and top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges.
• Sandwiches: Add the shredded pork to a bun with coleslaw and barbecue sauce.
• Rice Bowls: Serve over steamed rice with black beans, avocado, and salsa.
• Meal Prep: Portion the pork into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

---

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Cut: A pork shoulder with good marbling will yield tender, juicy meat.
2. Customize the Rub: Adjust the seasoning to match your flavor preferences, adding cayenne for heat or cinnamon for a warm twist.
3. Air Fryer Size: If your air fryer is small, consider cutting the pork shoulder into smaller pieces for even cooking.
4. Check Frequently: Every air fryer cooks differently, so monitor the meat closely to avoid overcooking or burning.

---

Why Use an Air Fryer for Pork Shoulder?

The air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food quickly and evenly. It’s a healthier alternative to frying, as it requires little to no oil while delivering a crispy texture. Cooking pork shoulder in an air fryer allows you to achieve a golden-brown crust without drying out the interior. Plus, it’s faster than traditional oven roasting or slow cooking methods, making it perfect for weeknight meals.

---

Final Thoughts

The Shredded Pork Shoulder Air Fryer Recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. By using the air fryer, you can create a deliciously tender and versatile dish in less time than traditional methods. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing meals for the week, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the smoky, juicy goodness of shredded pork shoulder with minimal effort!