How to Make Tequila-Lime-Infused Tenderloins

Did you know Americans consume over 27 million gallons of tequila every year, according to the Distilled Spirits Council? And while we love our margaritas, tequila isn’t just for cocktails anymore. It’s time we let this bold, citrusy spirit work its magic in the kitchen too.

This Tequila-Lime Infused Tenderloins recipe brings a zesty kick to your grill game. We’re talking juicy pork soaked in lime, orange, and tequila—balanced with spices, honey, and herbs. After an overnight marinade, these tenderloins hit the grill sizzling with flavor, ready to be carved into the most flavorful slices you've tasted all season. It’s smoky, tangy, and subtly sweet with just enough spice to keep things exciting.

Ready to turn your backyard BBQ into a fiesta? Let’s dive in!

How to Make Tequila-Lime-Infused Tenderloins

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• • 1 cup fresh lime juice 
  • ½ cup tequila (blanco tequila preferred)
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green chiles
  • 1½ tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 pork tenderloins (around 1 to 1.5 lbs each)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, tequila, orange juice, chopped cilantro, green chiles, chili powder, minced garlic, honey, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Pork

Place pork tenderloins in your glass food containers. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring the meat is completely coated. Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Preheat and Prep the Grill

When ready to cook, preheat your grill on high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Tenderloins

Using your Zulay tongs, place each tenderloin on the grill. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes to lock in those juices, then reduce heat to medium and cover.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Grill the pork for 15-20 minutes total, turning occasionally. Use the digital food thermometer to check the internal temperature. Once it hits 145°F, it’s done.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Remove the tenderloins from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This keeps the juices inside. Slice thinly and serve!

Tips, Variations, and Add-Ins to Try

• Marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavor penetrates.
• A Grill thermometer is key. Pork can easily overcook. Aim for exactly 145°F and let it rest.
• Let it rest. Resting meat retains juices and keeps it tender.
• Make it spicier. Add chipotle peppers or cayenne to the marinade.
• Switch the meat. This marinade works great with chicken thighs or even shrimp.
• Oven option. No grill? Sear in a pan, then finish in a 400°F oven for 15–20 minutes.

Is Pork Tenderloin Good For You?

Pork tenderloin is an excellent protein choice, as it is one of the leanest cuts of pork, often comparable in leanness to skinless chicken breast. A 3-ounce serving contains about 22 grams of protein and is low in fat, particularly when visible fat is trimmed. Additionally, it is rich in B vitamins, including thiamine, which plays a crucial role in converting carbohydrates into energy and also provides essential minerals like selenium, zinc, and phosphorus. For flavor enhancement, pairing pork with citrus and tequila not only elevates the taste but also helps to tenderize the meat naturally.

Make Your Own Pork Tequila-Lime Infused Tenderloins Today!

This Tequila-Lime Infused Tenderloins recipe is one of those crowd-pleasers that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, even though the hardest part is waiting for the marinade to do its thing. It’s fresh, bold, and makes your grill smell like a five-star fiesta. If you're looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, impress guests at your next cookout, or just treat yourself to something vibrant and flavorful, this dish checks every box.

Other Kitchen Tools from Zulay Kitchen

To make this recipe stress-free, here are some must-haves from Zulay Kitchen:

• • Stainless Steel Lemon Squeezer – Perfect for juicing fresh limes with ease.
  • Rectangular Measuring Spoon – For accurate spice and liquid measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tequila-Lime Infused Tenderloins

Can you really taste the tequila in the pork?

Yes, but not in an overpowering way. The tequila blends with lime and orange juice to create a subtle tangy flavor that complements the spices. The alcohol mostly cooks off during grilling, leaving behind a smoky-sweet citrus profile that’s delicious and family-friendly.

What kind of tequila works best for this recipe?

Blanco (or silver) tequila is best for marinades. It has a clean, crisp flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. Avoid aged tequilas like reposado or añejo, which are better suited for sipping and can add an overly oaky flavor to your dish.

How long can I marinate pork tenderloin?

Ideally, you want to marinate for at least 8 hours, but no longer than 24 hours. Beyond that, the acid in the lime juice can start breaking down the meat too much, resulting in a mushy texture. If you’re short on time, even 2–4 hours of marinating will give you good flavor.

What should I serve with these tenderloins?

These pork tenderloins go beautifully with grilled veggies, rice pilaf, or a tangy slaw. You could also slice them thin and serve in tacos with avocado and cilantro. 

Can I cook this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! While grilling gives you that smoky char, you can sear the tenderloins in a cast iron skillet and finish them in a 400°F oven. 

Is it safe to use marinade as a sauce?

Only if you boil it first. Since the marinade has been in contact with raw pork, it needs to be brought to a rolling boil for at least 5 minutes to kill any bacteria. Alternatively, reserve some marinade before adding the pork, and use that fresh batch as your sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Slice any leftover pork and store it in an airtight container like the Glass Food Container. It’ll last in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat gently in the microwave or toss slices into salads, tacos, or rice bowls for quick meals.