How to Cook Pork Shoulder Halves in an Air Fryer

Pork shoulder is a flavorful, budget-friendly cut of meat that is perfect for slow cooking, smoking, and roasting. However, did you know you can also cook pork shoulder halves in an air fryer? This method produces a crispy, caramelized crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Cooking pork shoulder in an air fryer is faster than traditional methods and results in a delicious meal with minimal effort.

In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing, seasoning, and air-frying pork shoulder halves for a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a main course.

Choosing the Right Pork Shoulder

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to choose the right cut of pork shoulder. Here’s what to consider:

• Marbling: Look for pork shoulder with good marbling (streaks of fat throughout the meat). This ensures a juicy and flavorful result.
• Bone-in vs. Boneless: You can cook both bone-in and boneless pork shoulder halves in an air fryer. Boneless cuts cook slightly faster, while bone-in retains more moisture and flavor.
• Size Considerations: Since air fryers have limited space, ensure your pork shoulder half fits comfortably in the basket without overcrowding.

Preparing the Pork Shoulder

1. Trimming Excess Fat

While fat enhances flavor, too much can cause excessive smoke in the air fryer. Trim any thick fat cap down to about 1/4 inch.

2. Seasoning Options

You can use a dry rub, a wet marinade, or a combination of both to flavor your pork shoulder. Here are some seasoning ideas:

Dry Rub (Classic BBQ Flavor)

• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Wet Marinade (Savory & Moist)

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried oregano

3. Marinating for Maximum Flavor

• Dry rub method: Apply the seasoning generously on all sides and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
• Wet marinade method: Let the pork shoulder marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours).

Prepping the Air Fryer

1. Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 375°F ensures even cooking.

2. Using Air Fryer Liners or Foil

To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, you can use air fryer parchment liners or a sheet of foil (with holes poked for airflow).

Cooking Process

Temperature and Time Guide

• Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, flipping halfway through.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer:
  • 145°F (63°C) for slicing.
  • 195-205°F (90-96°C) for shredding.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Place the pork shoulder half in the air fryer basket with space around it for air circulation.
2. Cook at 350°F for 25 minutes.
3. Flip the pork and cook for another 20-30 minutes.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
5. If needed, increase the temperature to 400°F for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the exterior.

Achieving a Crispy Exterior

A crispy crust enhances both the texture and flavor of your pork shoulder. Here are some tips:

• Increase the final cooking temperature to 400°F for the last few minutes.
• Brush with BBQ sauce or honey glaze during the final 5 minutes for caramelization.
• Spray lightly with oil before cooking to help form a golden crust.

Resting and Serving

Resting the Meat

• After cooking, let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing or shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Serving Ideas

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches – Toss with BBQ sauce and serve on a toasted bun.
• Tacos – Shred and serve with tortillas, salsa, and fresh toppings.
• Rice Bowls – Serve over steamed rice with grilled vegetables.
• Pork Sliders – Mini sandwiches with coleslaw and pickles.
• Side Suggestions – Pair with cornbread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips & Troubleshooting

Avoiding Dry Pork

• Do not overcook – use a thermometer to check internal temperature.
• Let the pork rest before cutting to retain juices.
• Consider marinating overnight for extra moisture retention.

Adjusting for Different Air Fryer Sizes

• If using a smaller air fryer, cut the pork shoulder into smaller portions.
• Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

What to Do if Pork is Undercooked?

• If the meat hasn’t reached the desired temperature, return it to the air fryer in 5-minute increments until done.

Conclusion

Cooking pork shoulder halves in an air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, crispy, and juicy meal without the hassle of slow cooking. By following the steps above, you can achieve a tender and delicious pork shoulder that’s perfect for a variety of dishes.

Experiment with different seasonings, serve it in your favorite meals, and enjoy the convenience of air-fried pork shoulder. Whether you’re making pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, or a protein-packed dinner, this method is sure to impress.