Coffee-Rubbed Air Fryer Pork Chops with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sophisticated yet effortless pairing that highlights the natural sweetness of Niman Ranch Pork Chops. A bold, earthy coffee rub creates a savory crust on the bone-in or boneless chops, locking in juices while they reach crispy perfection in the air fryer. Served alongside a velvety bed of mashed sweet potatoes, it’s a balanced plate where smoky, robust spices meet a smooth, buttery finish.
prep time
15 minutescook time
45 minutesIngredients
- 1 tablespoon ground coffee (medium roast works best)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
For the Pork Chops
- 4 Niman Ranch bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Olive oil spray or brush-on oil
For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes
- 2–3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- ¼ cup milk (or more as needed for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: maple syrup or ground cinnamon for a touch of sweetness
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Rub
In a small bowl, combine all the rub ingredients until evenly mixed. The olive oil should create a slightly damp, sand-like texture.
Season the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
Rub each chop generously with the coffee mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Let them rest for 10–15 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.
Cook the Sweet Potatoes
While the pork marinates:
- Add cubed sweet potatoes to a pot of salted boiling water.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper (plus a drizzle of maple syrup or sprinkle of cinnamon if desired).
- Keep warm.
Air Fry the Pork Chops
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the basket with oil.
- Place the pork chops in a single layer — don’t overcrowd.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve
Spoon the mashed sweet potatoes onto plates, top with the coffee-rubbed pork chops, and drizzle with any juices from the air fryer basket.
Garnish with a little fresh thyme or a dusting of smoked paprika for presentation.