Pulled pork is a delicious barbecue favorite that is made by slow-cooking pork shoulder or pork butt until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender. The tender, juicy pork is then shredded or “pulled” into strands using two forks. Since pulled pork can take many hours in the slow cooker or smoker to prepare, leftovers are common. However, many people find that reheating pulled pork, especially in the microwave, can often leave the pork dried out and not as flavorful. Using an air fryer to reheat pulled pork can help avoid this problem and keep the pork moist, juicy and full of flavor.
Can You Reheat Pulled Pork in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely reheat pulled pork in an air fryer! An air fryer is an excellent way to reheat pulled pork without drying it out. The air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food at high speed to quickly and evenly reheat it. The hot air will gently reheat the pork just until warmed through without overcooking it. While the microwave can often make pulled pork rubbery and dried out, the air fryer will keep it tender and moist.
How to Reheat Pulled Pork in an Air Fryer
Reheating pulled pork in an air fryer is simple and easy. Here are some tips for the best results:
- Use pulled pork that has been refrigerated or frozen. Let refrigerated pork come to room temperature before reheating.
- Cut the pork into smaller pieces or break it apart so it will heat more quickly and evenly.
- Place the pulled pork in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
- Set the air fryer temperature to 300°F.
- Reheat the pork for 5-10 minutes, checking frequently and stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- The reheating time will vary based on the amount of pork and your air fryer model. Start with 5 minutes and add more time if needed.
- Serve the reheated pulled pork immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Tips for the Best Results
Follow these tips for delicious pulled pork when reheated in an air fryer:
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Reheat pork in batches for even heating.
- Brushing the pork lightly with oil or barbecue sauce helps keep it moist.
- Turn or mix the pork halfway through reheating for even heating.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Add any barbecue sauce after reheating so it doesn’t burn.
- For crispy pork, coat the outside with barbecue rub before air frying.
How Long Does It Take to Reheat Pulled Pork in an Air Fryer?
It typically takes 5-10 minutes to reheat pulled pork in an air fryer. The time can vary based on:
- Amount of pulled pork – The more pork you are reheating, the longer it will take.
- Size of pieces – Smaller pieces will reheat faster than larger chunks.
- Air fryer temperature – The higher the temp, the faster it will reheat.
- Air fryer size/power – Higher powered models may reheat faster.
Start checking the pulled pork after 5 minutes. Then check every 2-3 minutes until the pork is heated through, and registers 165°F on a food thermometer. Avoid overcooking the pork or it could dry out.
Air Fryer vs. Oven vs. Microwave for Reheating Pulled Pork
Here is a comparison of the best methods for reheating pulled pork:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer |
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| Oven |
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| Microwave |
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The air fryer produces the best reheated pulled pork with moist, tender meat and crispy bits. The oven can also gently reheat pork but may cause some drying. The microwave is fastest but can make the pork rubbery and dry.
Other Delicious Ways to Use Leftover Pulled Pork
Aside from simply reheating it, leftover pulled pork also shines in these recipes:
- Sandwiches – Pile pulled pork onto buns with coleslaw and barbecue sauce.
- Tacos – Stuff pulled pork into tortillas with sliced avocado, pico de gallo and lime juice.
- Pizza – Top pizza dough with pulled pork, onions, cheddar and barbecue drizzle.
- Nachos – Load up nachos with pulled pork, beans, cheese, jalapenos and sour cream.
- Scrambled eggs – Add pulled pork to scrambled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Quesadillas – Fill tortillas with pulled pork, Monterey jack and peppers for easy quesadillas.
- Casseroles – Mix pulled pork with mac and cheese or mashed potatoes for comforting casseroles.
- Soups – Throw shredded pork into soups like tomato, minestrone or chili.
Conclusion
Using an air fryer is an excellent way to reheat delicious pulled pork while keeping it moist, juicy and full of flavor. The air fryer’s quick, gentle heating prevents the pork from drying out like it can in the microwave or oven. For the best results, reheat pulled pork in small batches in a 300°F air fryer for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Leftover pulled pork also shines when used creatively in sandwiches, tacos, nachos, casseroles and more.