If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy dinner recipe that the whole family will love, these air fryer butter parmesan pork bites are perfect! With simple ingredients, quick prep time, and mouthwatering results, this dish is bound to become one of your favorite recipes. Made with boneless pork chops and a few pantry staples, it’s a breeze to whip up, whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting guests.

**This post contains affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn a small commission by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites.

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients for Butter Parmesan Pork Bites

2 lbs of boneless pork ribs (or your preferred type of pork chop)
Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (to taste)
Avocado Oil or Olive oil (for greasing the air fryer or parchment paper)
½–1 cup of unsalted butter (melted, depending on preference)
½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor

Directions for Cooking Butter Parmesan Pork Bites

Prep the Pork

Start by preparing your boneless pork ribs or pork chops. Place them on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut the pork into bite-sized pieces. Ensure the pieces are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. If your pork chops are thicker cuts, you may need to slightly adjust the cooking time later to ensure they reach the appropriate safe internal temperature.

Season the Pork

Transfer the pork pieces to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, adjusting the amounts to suit your taste. For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning. Toss the pork pieces gently to ensure all sides are evenly coated with the seasonings.

Prepare the Air Fryer

Lightly grease the drawer of your air fryer with olive oil, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the pork pieces in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece to allow proper air circulation. If you’re using a baking sheet, line it with oiled parchment paper and spread the pork out evenly. We use the Ninja Foodi XL Air Fryer because it holds a TON of food.

Air Fry the Pork

Set your air fryer to 350°F and cook the pork for 15 minutes. At the halfway mark (about 7–8 minutes), use tongs to flip the pork pieces to ensure they cook evenly and develop a golden brown exterior. If you’re unsure about doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for at least 145°F. This step ensures your pork is cooked safely and remains juicy.

Prepare the Butter Parmesan Sauce

While the pork is cooking, melt ½ to 1 cup of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. For added flavor, you can stir in a few minced cloves of garlic or a splash of white wine. Once the butter is fully melted, mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently to combine, and reduce the heat to low to keep the sauce warm and ready.

Toss the Pork

Once the pork bites are cooked through and golden brown, carefully remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm butter Parmesan sauce over the pork, ensuring it coats every piece. Use tongs to toss the pork bites gently but thoroughly.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the butter Parmesan pork bites and serve immediately. If desired, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Perfect Side Dishes for Butter Parmesan Pork Bites

When it comes to sides, these butter parmesan pork bites pair beautifully with a variety of dishes to create a well-rounded meal. For a comforting option, serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery roasted garlic mashed cauliflower.

If you prefer something lighter, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans with a hint of lemon juice complements the rich flavors perfectly. For a heartier pairing, consider fluffy rice pilaf or crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with Italian herbs.

Tips for the Best Butter Parmesan Pork Bites

Choose the Right Cut of Pork

Boneless pork ribs are ideal for this recipe because of their tenderness and flavor, but boneless pork chops or a thicker cut of pork chops work well too. You can trim excess fat for a cleaner bite, but leave a little for added flavor and juiciness.

Cut Uniform Pieces

When cutting the pork into bite-sized pieces, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. If the pieces are uneven, smaller chunks may dry out while larger ones may take longer to cook.

Season Generously

Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder are the base flavors, but you can experiment with other seasonings like paprika, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Preheat the Air Fryer

For the crispiest results, preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the pork. This helps the pork start cooking immediately and develop a beautiful golden brown exterior.

Cook in Batches if Needed

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket or baking sheet. Cooking the pork in a single layer allows hot air to circulate properly, ensuring the bites cook evenly and crisp up nicely. If you’re making a large batch, cook the pork in multiple rounds.

Flip Halfway Through

To achieve even browning, flip the pork pieces halfway through the cooking process. This ensures that all sides are golden brown and perfectly cooked.

Check the Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check that the pork reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F. This not only ensures food safety but also prevents overcooking, keeping the pork juicy and tender.

Customize the Butter Sauce

The butter Parmesan sauce is delicious as is, but you can take it up a notch by adding minced garlic, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. If you prefer a creamier sauce, mix in a tablespoon of heavy cream or a touch of chicken broth.

Serve Immediately

These pork bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer while they’re still warm and crispy. If you’re serving them with sides, have everything prepped and ready to go to keep the meal cohesive and enjoyable.

Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use the air fryer to restore the crispy texture, or warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of butter.

Experiment with Sides

Pair these pork bites with simple sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp salad. For a low-carb option, serve them over cauliflower rice or zoodles for a lighter meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These pork bites are a fantastic option for meal prep. Cook a larger batch, and portion them out with your favorite sides for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

These air fryer butter parmesan pork bites are the ultimate solution for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing dinner on a hectic weeknight or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish to share, this recipe delivers every time. With its crispy texture, rich buttery flavor, and cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Easy to make and versatile to serve, it’s a great way to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Try it tonight and savor the simple joy of cooking at home!