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Pork Tenderloin Carnitas Tacos

Healthy Fact of the Day

Pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of pork, providing high-quality protein with less saturated fat than other cuts. The slow-cooking method keeps the meat moist without added fats.

These Pork Tenderloin Carnitas Tacos bring authentic Mexican flavors to your Taco Tuesday with tender, citrus-braised pork that’s slow-cooked until it falls apart, then crisped for the perfect texture contrast. The orange juice and aromatic spices create an irresistible filling that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.

If you’re craving more taco variations, try our Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos for a smoky kick or the Mexican Street Corn Tacos for a vegetarian twist. For another slow-cooked Mexican favorite, our Chile Colorado offers that same rich, spiced comfort in a hearty stew format.

Pork Tenderloin Carnitas Tacos

Pork Tenderloin Carnitas Tacos

Recipe by Daily Disher

Pork Tenderloin Carnitas Tacos feature succulent pork slow-cooked in citrus and spices, then crisped to perfection and wrapped in warm corn tortillas with fresh cilantro and lime.

Course: MainCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy
3.5 from 11 votes
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

4

hours 
Calories

350

kcal

4

hours 

20

minutes

    Ingredients

    • 1 lb pork tenderloin

    • 2 tsp olive oil

    • 1 tsp salt

    • 0.5 tsp black pepper

    • 1 tsp cumin

    • 1 tsp dried oregano

    • 1 cup orange juice

    • 1 cup chicken broth

    • 4 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 pc onion, sliced

    • 12 pc corn tortillas

    • 0.5 cup cilantro, chopped

    • 2 pc limes, cut into wedges

    • 1 pc jalapeño, sliced

    Directions

    • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
    • Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano, and brown on all sides in the pot.
    • Add orange juice, chicken broth, minced garlic, and sliced onion to the pot. Ensure the liquid covers the pork.
    • Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 3 to 4 hours until the pork is tender.
    • Once cooked, remove the pork from the liquid, shred it using two forks, and place it on a baking sheet.
    • Increase the oven’s temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake the shredded pork for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
    • Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until pliable.
    • Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with shredded pork, chopped cilantro, jalapeño slices, and a squeeze of lime.

    Nutrition Facts

    • Total number of serves: 4
    • Calories: 350kcal
    • Cholesterol: 0mg
    • Sodium: 620mg
    • Potassium: 400mg
    • Sugar: 8g
    • Protein: 6g
    • Calcium: 60mg
    • Iron: 2mg

    Can’t get enough of great flavors? Check out these popular recipes that readers love making again and again.

    For Mexican-inspired favorites, our Tamale Casserole and Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole bring that same south-of-the-border comfort to your dinner table. When you want tender, flavorful meat dishes, the Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole and Korean BBQ Pork deliver that perfect combination of savory satisfaction. Need more taco night options? Our Crockpot Birria Tacos and Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy keep the fiesta going strong.

    Browse our full collection for more kitchen inspiration that’ll have your family asking for seconds.

    3.5 from 11 votes

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    Tip of the Day

    “Always let your meat rest before slicing.”

    Whether you're roasting a chicken, grilling steak, or baking pork tenderloin, letting cooked meat rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute evenly. This simple step keeps your meat juicy and tender, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist. Bonus: It gives you a moment to plate your sides or garnish for a perfect presentation!

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