Air Fryer Pork Belly
Ready in about 45 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Crispy crackling, rich juicy meat and far less waiting than an oven roast. Air fryer pork belly is perfect when you want a big-flavour dinner without heating the whole kitchen.
Written for 4. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 700 g pork belly
- 1 tbsp fine salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp five-spice powder
- 1 tsp olive oil
Method
- 1Pat the pork belly very dry, then score the skin if it is not already scored.
- 2Rub the meat side with pepper and five-spice, keeping most of the salt on the skin.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 200°C / 400°F for 4 minutes.
- 4Rub the skin with the oil and arrange the pork belly skin-side up in the basket.
- 5Air fry for 25-35 minutes until the crackling is blistered and the centre reaches 74°C / 165°F.
- 6Rest for 10 minutes before slicing so the juices settle.
Tips for the best results
- Dry skin is everything - leave it uncovered in the fridge for a few hours if you have time.
- If the crackling needs more blistering, give it 2-3 extra minutes at the end and watch closely.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer pork belly steams instead of browning.
- Pulling air fryer pork belly the moment the timer ends without checking the centre.
- Trusting the clock instead of a probe - Air Fryer Pork Belly is ready at 74°C / 165°F in the thickest part.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer pork belly?
A typical starting point is 200°C / 400°F for 25-35 min. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
How do I know air fryer pork belly is cooked through?
Use a probe in the thickest part. Air Fryer Pork Belly should reach 74°C / 165°F. Rest a few minutes before slicing so juices settle.
How many people does air fryer pork belly serve?
This recipe is written for 4. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.
How do I get crispy crackling in the air fryer?
Dry the skin thoroughly, salt it well and cook skin-side up in a preheated air fryer. Moisture is the enemy of crackling.