Ground Pork Tacos

Nothing is better than taco night—it’s an easy-peasy dinner that’s super satisfying for everyone at the table. The beauty of a taco is its versatility: crunchy corn shell or soft flour tortilla; chicken, beef, fish or beans for protein; hot or mild salsa; and a veritable world of toppings. Ground pork tacos are bound to be your new favorite thanks to their big flavor and easy preparation.

As the ground pork cooks, it gets a handful of pantry spices, sauteed peppers and onions, and a surprise splash of orange juice to brighten everything up. It’s savory, juicy and just a little citrusy, making it perfect for piling into warm tortillas and loading on the toppings. Add these to your best taco recipes list for that taco dinner party you’ve been planning or a Taco Tuesday when you and the family need a change of pace.

Ingredients for Ground Pork Tacos

• Ground pork: Ground pork cooks quickly and stays juicy, making it ideal for tacos. The naturally rich flavor pairs beautifully with warm spices like cumin and chili powder.
• Green pepper: Chopped green pepper adds a little sweetness and a fresh, slightly grassy flavor.
• Onion: Onion adds essential depth and aroma to the taco mixture.
• Orange juice: Get one of the best orange juices you can buy, or make it fresh-squeezed. It is the secret ingredient that makes this ground pork taco recipe magic. The citrus adds just enough acid to make the pork mixture bright and sweet.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic adds bold, aromatic flavor. Two cloves are enough to make the whole skillet smell amazing.
• Salt: Salt turns up the volume for every ingredient in the skillet and helps the spices pop. Adjust to taste depending on how much seasoning you like in your taco filling.
• Spices: Season the meat with ground cumin, chili powder and cayenne pepper.
• Corn tortillas: Corn tortillas give these tacos a traditional texture and flavor. Use small street taco-sized tortillas (6 inches) or another option: hard shells, soft tortillas or even flour tortillas if you like a softer bite. If you really want to impress, make your corn tortillas from scratch.
• Optional toppings: Make it like your favorite taco truck or stand by serving ground pork tacos with minced onions, chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges. A hit of sour cream or Mexican crema is also fantastic.

Directions

Step 1: Make the pork filling

In a large skillet, cook the meat, green pepper and onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink; drain. Add water, orange juice, garlic, salt, cumin, chili powder and cayenne. Simmer, uncovered, until the liquid evaporates, four to five minutes.

Editor’s Tip: If you enjoy bold taco flavors, you can add a little extra cumin or chili powder to taste.

Step 2: Assemble the tacos

Serve the cooked meat in taco shells with your choice of toppings.

Editor’s Tip: If you want restaurant-style tortillas, warm them up in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side.

Ground Pork Taco Variations

• Pick up some pineapple: Add diced fresh pineapple or pineapple salsa for a sweet contrast to the spicy pork mixture. It makes them almost like tacos al pastor.
• Try street-style tacos: Top the tacos with sliced radishes, chopped cilantro, diced onion and a squeeze of lime for a simple yet classic street-taco vibe.
• Make it a taco bar: A taco board includes the meat filling and tortillas, plus shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, pickled onions, cheese and other optional toppings so that everyone can build their own tacos.
• Choose cheesy: Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack or queso fresco over the warm filling for a creamy, melty finish.

How to Store Ground Pork Tacos

Store leftover ground pork taco filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keeping the meat separate from the tortillas and toppings helps everything stay fresh and prevents soggy tacos.

How long do ground pork tacos last?

Ground pork taco filling will last up to four days in the refrigerator when stored properly in a sealed container. Reheat only the portion you plan to use to keep the best flavor and texture.

Can you freeze ground pork taco meat?

Yes, you can freeze ground pork taco meat. Let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to three months.

How should you reheat the taco filling?

Reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth if the meat looks a little dry.

Ground Pork Taco Tips

What should you serve with ground pork tacos?

For a real fiesta, this ground pork taco recipe pairs beautifully with classic Mexican-inspired sides. Try Mexican rice, refried beans, Mexican street corn or a bright avocado salad to round out the meal.

What else can you do with ground pork taco meat?

This flavorful ground pork taco filling is fantastically versatile. Use it to make burritos, quesadillas, taco bowls or even stuffed tortas. You could also spoon it over nachos or use it as a filling for enchiladas or breakfast burritos.