Mexican Spice Rubbed Pork Tenderloin

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This Mexican spice rubbed pork tenderloin is the perfect weeknight dinner when you are tight on time, but want to try something different!

Mexican Spice Rubbed Pork Tenderloin in a bowl

Pork tenderloin is a great healthy protein. It is lean and cooks quickly, which is perfect when you need easy dinners on the table in a rush! The Mexican spice rub for this meal is also very quick to put together. This makes for a very fast and easy weeknight dinner. It is one of my favorite easy recipes with a Mexican twist!

What is Mexican Spice Rubbed Pork Tenderloin?

This is a simple pork tenderloin that is seasoned with a Mexican spice mixture and cooked in the oven until medium doneness. This is one of my favorite pork tenderloin recipes!

What Do I Need to Prepare my Mexican Spice Rub?

While the full ingredients list is available below, here is an ingredient checklist of the spices you will need to create your Mexican dry rub spices for this pork tenderloin recipe:

  • brown sugar
  • kosher salt
  • chipotle chili powder
  • ground cumin
  • paprika
  • dried oregano
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • ground black pepper
  • ground cayenne pepper

To apply the spice rub to the pork, you will mix it with your cooking oil to create a paste. One tip is to let your pork tenderloin sit at room temperature for fifteen to twenty minutes. This is important, because it will let the pork cook more evenly. Before seasoning the pork, blot it with a paper towel. This is important, because it will give the meat a crispy outer texture while keeping the center nice and moist.

Mexican Spice Rubbed Pork Tenderloin in a bowl

HOW TO PREPARE MEXICAN SPICE RUBBED PORK TENDERLOIN

While the full recipe instruction are available below, here are some tips to make the best Mexican inspired pork!

  • In a small bowl, simply whisk the spices together so they are well mixed and add extra virgin olive oil. Mix the olive oil and spices so that it forms a uniform paste. Now, the next step is to season pork. Spread the paste on all sides of the pork.
  • Now, place pork in a baking dish and cook the pork tenderloin in the oven for around twenty five to thirty five minutes. Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature of your pork tenderloin is 145F. It should be starting to look golden brown on the outside. Once it is cooked, cover the pork with foil and let it rest on a cutting board for roughly ten minutes. This is the best way to achieve tender meat, because it will release its juices and absorb them again while it rests. The result is a perfectly juicy meat when you cut into it!
  • To serve, squeeze some lime juice over the pork and cut into pork medallions. Serve with pan juices and your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

You could even add a little cotija cheese and hot sauce on your pork if you want to add even more to this dish!

Mexican Spice Rubbed Pork Tenderloin in a bowl

What to Do with Leftovers

Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three to five days. This recipe would be great as the main protein in tacos or burritos! Let your creativity run wild with this pork. The options are endless – leftovers of this pork also makes a great addition to lunchtime salads or brunch omelets!

Frequently Asked Question About Pork Tenderloin

What temperature should I set my oven to cook pork tenderloin? I recommend cooking your pork tenderloin at 400 degrees F.

What temperature should my pork tenderloin reach when cooked? You pork is considered safe when it has been cooked to reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.

How long should I cook my pork at 400 degrees F? While all ovens are different, you will cook your pork tenderloin for approximately twenty five to thirty five minutes at 400F. You pork is done when it is starting to turn golden brown on the outside and its internal temperature reaches 145F.

Isn't pork bad for you? No! Pork gets a bad reputation as being bad for you, but if you pick leaner cuts it is a good choice for a healthy diet. It is a good source of certain nutrients and is a good source of high quality protein. As with all things in life, add it in moderation for a great addition to a healthy diet!

What to Serve with Your Mexican Pork Tenderloin

Not sure what sides to serve with your meat? Here are some suggestions from the blog!

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Mexican Spice Rubbed Pork Tenderloin

This Mexican spice rubbed pork tenderloin is the perfect weeknight dinner when you are tight on time, but want to try something different!

Author:
Kirsten
Servings:
4
Prep Time:
5
Cooking Time:
30

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
  • 3/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • pinch of ground cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1lb pork tenderloin
  • 1 wedge if lime

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400F. In a small bowl, mix together the spices and add olive oil – mix together to form a paste. Spread the paste on all sides of the pork tenderloin.
  2. Place the pork in a baking dish and bake in the oven for 25 to 35 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 150 – 160F. Let the meat rest, covered in foil for approximately 10 minutes before carving. Squeeze the lime over the pork and carve. Enjoy!

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