Get ready to transform your home cooking with these mouthwatering Pork Tenderloin Tacos that bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine straight to your dinner table. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned pork nestled in warm tortillas, topped with fresh pico de gallo and a sprinkle of cheese - this recipe is about to become your new weeknight dinner obsession. Whether you're looking to impress your family or craving a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your kitchen, these tacos are guaranteed to be a game-changer.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pork tenderloin by patting it dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adherence.
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder and garlic powder to create a spice rub. Evenly coat the entire pork tenderloin with the spice mixture, massaging the seasonings into the meat.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the hot pan and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, turning to ensure even browning and a total internal temperature of 145°F (medium-rare).
- Remove the pork from heat and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which ensures a more tender and flavorful meat.
- While the pork rests, warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or directly over a gas flame for 15-20 seconds per side.
- Slice the pork tenderloin against the grain into thin, diagonal strips, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Assemble tacos by placing sliced pork in warm tortillas, topping with fresh pico de gallo, shredded cheese, and chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately while ingredients are warm and tortillas are soft.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches 145°F for perfect doneness and juiciness.
- Resting Matters: Always let your pork rest after cooking to keep the meat tender and prevent drying out.
- Tortilla Technique: Warm tortillas briefly to enhance their flavor and prevent cracking when folding.
- Spice Customization: Feel free to adjust the chili and garlic powder ratio to match your personal heat preference.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh cilantro and homemade pico de gallo for maximum flavor impact.
- Meal Prep Hack: You can marinate the pork overnight for even more intense flavor infusion.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
