Get ready to spice up your menu with these mouth-watering 18 Spicy Pork Tenderloin Mexican Recipes that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico! From classic tacos to innovative fusion dishes, we’ve gathered the most authentic and flavorful recipes that showcase the versatility and tenderness of pork tenderloin. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Pork tenderloin is an underrated cut of meat that’s incredibly easy to work with, and when paired with bold Mexican flavors, it becomes a game-changer. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the spicy, savory, and sweet world of pork tenderloin recipes, each one more mouth-watering than the last.
Pork Tenderloin Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this unique taco recipe, perfect for a twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. Pork tenderloin is marinated to perfection and cooked to tender, juicy perfection, then paired with a fresh pineapple salsa that adds a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pineapple Salsa ingredients (below)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Brush mixture onto pork tenderloin.
3. Grill pork for 10-12 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4. Let pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
5. Prepare Pineapple Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl and mixing well.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with sliced pork, Pineapple Salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mexican Pork Tenderloin Carnitas
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this tender and juicy pork tenderloin dish, slow-cooked to perfection in a blend of spices and lard. Serve it with fresh tortillas, your favorite toppings, and a side of Mexican rice for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the lard or oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the pork tenderloin until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Return the pork to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender and easily shredded.
7. Shred the pork with two forks, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Chipotle Marinade
Elevate your grilling game with this spicy and savory recipe for Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Chipotle Marinade. The smokiness of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce pairs perfectly with the tenderloin’s natural flavor, creating a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place the pork tenderloin in a shallow dish and brush the marinade all over the meat, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Let the tenderloin marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Grill the tenderloin for 12-15 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the tenderloin rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 24-30 minutes
Pork Tenderloin Enchiladas Suizas
These creamy enchiladas are a delicious and unique take on the traditional Mexican dish, featuring tender pork tenderloin wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a rich green tomatillo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-pound) pork tenderloin
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 medium tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) tomatillos, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Grill or cook the pork tenderloin until cooked through, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and jalapeño until softened.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, cilantro, and shredded pork; stir to combine.
5. In a separate saucepan, heat the tomatillos with 1 tablespoon of water until tender.
6. Assemble the enchiladas by dipping tortillas in the tomatillo sauce and filling with the pork mixture.
7. Place the filled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish, cover with cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Mexican Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your pork tenderloin game with this flavorful and effortless slow cooker recipe, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This dish is infused with the bold flavors of Mexico, making it an exciting twist on traditional comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup salsa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, for serving (optional)
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and diced avocado, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork tenderloin with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies and salsa. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve the tenderloin with tortillas, cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pork Tenderloin Quesadillas with Avocado Crema
Elevate your quesadilla game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines tender pork, creamy avocado, and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado crema (recipe below)
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the pork tenderloin with chili powder and cumin. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Slice the cooked pork into thin strips.
4. In the same skillet, add olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet, top with pork, cheese, and avocado crema. Fold in half and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican-Style Pork Tenderloin with Mole Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish, featuring tender pork loin smothered in a decadent mole sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup mole sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lard or oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the pork is cooking, warm the mole sauce according to package instructions (if using store-bought).
6. Remove the pork from the oven and brush with the warmed mole sauce.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Tenderloin Tostadas with Black Beans
Elevate your taco Tuesday game with this flavorful and fun twist on traditional tacos! Crispy tostadas topped with tender pork, creamy black beans, and a sprinkle of queso fresco make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Queso fresco or shredded cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lime juice, and cumin. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tostadas by topping each tortilla with roasted pork, black beans, and a sprinkle of queso fresco (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Pork Tenderloin Chile Verde
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of pork tenderloin with the bold, tangy flavors of chile verde. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 2 cups chile verde sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: serve with cooked rice, roasted vegetables, or warm tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from oven and brush with chile verde sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Street Corn and Pork Tenderloin Skewers
Get ready to spice up your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful fusion of Mexican street corn and tender pork skewers! This simple recipe combines the sweet, smoky flavors of grilled pork with the tangy, cheesy goodness of elote.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Tenderloin Skewers:
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mexican Street Corn:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add pork pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill pork skewers for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, grill corn ears for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until slightly charred.
5. Slather melted butter onto grilled corn, followed by mayonnaise, queso fresco, and smoked paprika.
6. Serve pork skewers with Mexican street corn.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Tenderloin Tamales with Red Chile Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these tender pork tamales smothered in a rich, spicy red chile sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, cooked and shredded
– 12-15 corn husks (fresh or dried)
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Red Chile Sauce ingredients: see below
Red Chile Sauce:
– 2 cups roasted red chile peppers, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the tamales by soaking corn husks in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, shortening, and chicken broth. Mix until smooth and pliable.
3. Assemble the tamales by spreading a thin layer of dough onto a corn husk, adding shredded pork, and folding into a compact package.
4. Steam the tamales for 45-60 minutes or cook in boiling water for 30-40 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the Red Chile Sauce by sautéing the chopped chile peppers, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in oil until tender. Serve over steamed tamales.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Pork Tenderloin Burritos with Cilantro Lime Rice
Pork Tenderloin Burritos with Cilantro Lime Rice: A flavorful twist on traditional burritos!
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Cilantro Lime Rice (see below)
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado
Cilantro Lime Rice:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by slicing the pork into thin strips and placing it onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a scoop of Cilantro Lime Rice and shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes (includes cooking time for the pork)
Mexican Pork Tenderloin Stuffed Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this vibrant and flavorful dish. This recipe combines tender pork, crunchy peppers, and a hint of spice for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 (1-pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/2 cup Mexican-style seasoning blend
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the top off each pepper, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pork tenderloin, Mexican seasoning blend, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice.
4. Stuff each pepper with the pork mixture, then top with shredded cheese.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Tenderloin Posole
Pork Tenderloin Posole: A hearty, flavorful twist on traditional posole, featuring tender pork, hominy, and vibrant spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup cooked white hominy, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, brown the pork tenderloin on all sides over medium-high heat. Transfer to a baking dish and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cooked hominy. Bring to a simmer.
5. Slice the roasted pork tenderloin into thin strips and add to the posole mixture. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Pork Tenderloin Fajitas with Charred Peppers
Elevate your fajita game with this flavorful recipe that combines the tender juiciness of pork tenderloin with the smoky sweetness of charred peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and cumin. Add pork tenderloin and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Grill peppers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until charred and slightly softened.
4. Remove pork from marinade and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Slice pork into thin strips and serve with grilled peppers, warm tortillas, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Pork Tenderloin and Sweet Potato Hash
This flavorful dish combines the tender and juicy pork tenderloin with a crispy sweet potato hash, infused with the bold flavors of Mexico. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork tenderloin with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss the sweet potatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, onion, and garlic. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and crispy.
5. Slice the pork tenderloin and serve with the sweet potato hash and lime wedges (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes.
Pork Tenderloin Chilaquiles with Fried Eggs
Chilaquiles is a Mexican dish that typically consists of fried tortilla chips smothered in salsa, cheese, and crema. In this recipe, we elevate the classic by adding juicy pork tenderloin and crispy fried eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 6 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Shredded cheese, crema, and cilantro for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and cumin. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tortilla quarters until crispy, about 30 seconds per side.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent. Crack in eggs and scramble to desired doneness.
5. Assemble chilaquiles by placing fried tortillas on a plate, topping with pork tenderloin, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheese. Serve with crema and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Tenderloin Sopes with Refried Beans
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the tenderness of pork tenderloin, all wrapped up in crispy sopes. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/2 cup refried beans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 sopes (corn tortillas)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and cumin.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the pork is cooking, warm the refried beans in a saucepan with a splash of water.
5. Assemble the sopes by spreading refried beans on each tortilla, topping with diced onion and garlic, then serving with sliced pork tenderloin.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering Mexican recipes featuring pork tenderloin as the star! From classic tacos and carnitas to creative dishes like mole sauce-glazed tenderloin and chilaquiles with fried eggs, this collection has something for every spice lover. Whether you’re in the mood for slow-cooked comfort or a quick weeknight dinner, these authentic Mexican recipes will transport your taste buds south of the border. Get cooking and discover new flavors to spice up your meal routine!
