Crispy Pork Bites that Will Delight Your Taste Buds!
Author:Lorenzo Bonucci
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking, Air Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
1½ pounds boneless pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ cup cornstarch (optional for extra crispiness)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional for garlic butter)
3 cloves garlic, minced (optional for garlic butter)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garlic butter)
Instructions
Pat the pork dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the pork with the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, and Italian seasoning. If using cornstarch, sprinkle it over the pork and toss until evenly coated.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Arrange the pork pieces in a single layer, leaving space between them. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until browned and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the pork in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, until fragrant. Toss the cooked pork bites in the garlic butter. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra crispiness, use cornstarch in the seasoning mix.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference.