Air Fryer Marie Callender's Country Fried Pork Chop and Gravy

Air Fryer Marie Callender's Country Fried Pork Chop and Gravy

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Servings: 1 meal

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen Marie Callender's Country Fried Pork and Gravy entree (includes breaded pork cutlets, gravy, mashed potatoes, and vegetables).

• Optional: Fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce for garnish.

Equipment:

• Air fryer (large enough to fit the container).

• Meat thermometer (optional, for checking the pork’s internal temperature).

• Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves.

• Tongs or a heat-resistant spoon.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Set your air fryer to 350°F (177°C).

   • Allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

2. Prepare the Frozen Meal:

   • Remove the Country Fried Pork and Gravy entree from its box.

   • Leave the plastic film on the container but pierce it in 5-7 spots with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape.

3. Place the Meal in the Air Fryer Basket:

   • Position the container flat in the air fryer basket. Ensure it is stable to avoid spillage of the gravy.

   • If the container doesn’t fit, transfer the contents to an air fryer-safe or oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil.

4. Cook the Meal:

   • Set the timer for 30 minutes.

   • At the 15-minute mark, pause the air fryer and carefully remove the basket. Stir the mashed potatoes and vegetables to distribute heat evenly. Spoon some gravy over the pork cutlets to keep them moist.

   • Re-cover loosely with the pierced film or foil and return it to the air fryer.

5. Check for Doneness:

   • After 25 minutes, check the pork’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).

   • If needed, cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring the sides occasionally to prevent drying out.

6. Optional Step for Crispy Pork:

   • For a crispier texture, transfer the pork cutlets directly to the air fryer basket during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for a lightly crispy finish.

   • Stir the mashed potatoes and vegetables again to keep them warm.

7. Serve Your Meal:

   • Carefully remove the container or dish from the air fryer using oven mitts.

   • Plate the pork cutlets with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Prevent the Gravy from Drying Out: Stir and spoon it over the pork cutlets and mashed potatoes halfway through cooking.

• Customize Your Meal: Add a side of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a gourmet touch.

• Monitor Your Air Fryer: Adjust cooking times slightly depending on your air fryer model for optimal results.

FAQ:

Can I cook multiple meals at once?

It’s best to cook one meal at a time to ensure even heating and crispy pork cutlets.

What if the mashed potatoes aren’t hot enough?

Stir the mashed potatoes thoroughly and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Can I add extra toppings?

Yes! Try sprinkling shredded cheese over the mashed potatoes or adding a side of roasted vegetables for variety.

Enjoy crispy Marie Callender’s Country Fried Pork Chop and Gravy in the air fryer with tender pork cutlets, creamy mashed potatoes, savory gravy, and veggies.