Air Fryer Pork Belly Crispy

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

Discover the irresistible crunch of Air Fryer Pork Belly Crispy, a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with a perfectly crispy texture.

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-24T23:34:27.832Z

Air Fryer Pork Belly Crispy is a modern twist on a classic dish that brings the flavors of crispy pork belly to your kitchen without the mess of traditional frying. The air fryer allows you to achieve that coveted crunch while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Irresistibly crispy skin that crackles with every bite
  • Juicy, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth
  • Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup

The Perfect Balance of Flavor and Texture

Air Fryer Pork Belly Crispy offers a mouthwatering combination of flavors that will delight your taste buds. The seasoning blend of garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper enhances the natural richness of the pork, while the salt draws out moisture, ensuring a perfectly juicy interior. The air fryer’s hot circulating air ensures that each bite features a satisfying crunch, making this dish an unforgettable experience.

The crispy skin of the pork belly is a true highlight. Scoring the skin creates an intricate pattern that allows the fat to render effectively, leading to an irresistible crackling texture. This method not only elevates the appearance of the dish but also contributes significantly to its flavor profile. Each bite provides a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender meat beneath.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the greatest advantages of preparing pork belly in an air fryer is the simplicity of the process. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can achieve gourmet results without spending hours in the kitchen. The air fryer eliminates the need for constant monitoring, allowing you to focus on preparing side dishes or simply relaxing while your meal cooks.

Cleanup is a breeze as well, thanks to the air fryer’s non-stick basket. After enjoying your delicious pork belly, simply remove the basket and wash it with warm soapy water. This convenience makes it easier than ever to incorporate this impressive dish into your regular meal rotation, whether for special occasions or weeknight dinners.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Air Fryer Pork Belly Crispy has rested and is ready to be sliced, you have a world of serving options at your fingertips. Pair it with a zesty dipping sauce, such as a spicy chili sauce or a tangy vinegar-based dressing, to enhance its succulent flavors. The contrast between the rich pork and a bright sauce will elevate your dining experience.

Consider serving your crispy pork belly alongside traditional accompaniments like steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad. These pairings not only complement the dish but also help balance its richness. Whether you choose to enjoy it as part of a larger feast or as a stand-alone dish, the versatility of this recipe ensures it will be a hit on any table.

Ingredients

For the Pork Belly

  • 2 pounds pork belly, skin on
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to pat the pork belly dry to ensure a crispy texture.

Instructions

Prepare the Pork Belly

Start by scoring the skin of the pork belly in a crosshatch pattern. This helps the fat render and creates a crispy skin. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Rub the olive oil over the skin.

Air Fry the Pork Belly

Place the pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through. Check halfway through and adjust cooking time if necessary.

Serve

Once cooked, let the pork belly rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.

Enjoy the rich flavors and crispy texture!

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the ultimate crispiness, ensure the skin of the pork belly is thoroughly dried before seasoning. Pat it with paper towels to remove excess moisture, allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. For added flavor, consider marinating the pork belly overnight with your favorite spices for an extra layer of taste.

If you're short on time, you can also use pre-seasoned pork belly from your local butcher or grocery store. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as pre-seasoned options might already contain salt or spices that could impact the final flavor.

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store the pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the crispiness, reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving. This method will help restore that delightful crunch without sacrificing flavor.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked pork belly. Slice it into portions and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

While pork belly is best for this recipe, you can experiment with pork shoulder or ribs, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can season the pork belly and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ What can I serve with crispy pork belly?

Crispy pork belly pairs well with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Air Fryer Pork Belly Crispy

Discover the irresistible crunch of Air Fryer Pork Belly Crispy, a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with a perfectly crispy texture.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pork Belly

  1. 2 pounds pork belly, skin on
  2. 1 tablespoon salt
  3. 1 tablespoon black pepper
  4. 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  5. 1 tablespoon paprika
  6. 1 tablespoon olive oil

How-To Steps

Step 01

Start by scoring the skin of the pork belly in a crosshatch pattern. This helps the fat render and creates a crispy skin. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the olive oil over the skin.

Step 02

Place the pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through. Check halfway through and adjust cooking time if necessary.

Step 03

Once cooked, let the pork belly rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g