Pulled Pork

Pulled Pork Tacos

Name: Pulled Pork Tacos
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 510 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) pork shoulder; 6 slices of thick-cut bacon; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

By Wren Ashford · June 19, 2026 · Pulled Pork

Prep30 min

Cook480 min

Total510 min

Serves8

I still remember the first time I had pulled pork tacos at a friend's barbecue. The combination of tender, smoky pork, crunchy taco shells, and fresh toppings was a game-changer for me. Since then, I've been perfecting my own recipe, and I'm excited to share it with you.

This recipe is all about comfort food, and it's perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make, and the results are well worth the effort. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Pulled pork is one of my favorite comfort foods, and it's a staple of many Southern cuisines. The key to making great pulled pork is to cook it low and slow, so the meat becomes tender and falls apart easily. I like to use a pork shoulder for this recipe, as it's a tough cut that becomes incredibly tender when cooked properly.

In addition to the pork, this recipe also features crispy bacon, which adds a smoky and savory element to the dish. I like to use thick-cut bacon for this recipe, as it holds up well to cooking and adds a nice texture to the finished tacos.

So, if you're looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion, look no further than these pulled pork tacos. With their tender meat, crispy bacon, and fresh toppings, they're sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
The pulled pork is tender and flavorful, with a rich and savory flavor that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
The crispy bacon adds a smoky and satisfying element to the dish, which complements the pork perfectly.
The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings and ingredients to create a dish that's tailored to your tastes.
The dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner, a party, or a casual gathering with friends.
The recipe makes a large batch of pulled pork, which can be refrigerated or frozen for later use, making it a great option for meal prep or planning ahead.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great pulled pork tacos is to cook the pork low and slow, so it becomes tender and falls apart easily. This is achieved by cooking the pork in a covered Dutch oven or slow cooker, where it can simmer in its own juices for several hours. The result is a tender and flavorful meat that's perfect for shredding and serving in tacos.

In addition to the cooking method, the type of pork used is also important. I like to use a pork shoulder for this recipe, as it's a tough cut that becomes incredibly tender when cooked properly. The shoulder is also a relatively inexpensive cut, making it a great option for those on a budget.

Another important factor in this recipe is the use of bacon. The crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory element to the dish, which complements the pork perfectly. I like to use thick-cut bacon for this recipe, as it holds up well to cooking and adds a nice texture to the finished tacos.

Finally, the toppings are also an important part of this recipe. I like to use a combination of fresh cilantro, diced onions, and sour cream to add a bright and tangy flavor to the tacos. You can also customize the toppings to your liking, using anything from diced tomatoes to shredded cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including a pork shoulder, thick-cut bacon, and some basic pantry staples. I like to use a combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to add a rich and savory flavor to the pork, and I also like to use fresh cilantro and lime juice to add a bright and tangy flavor to the finished tacos.

When shopping for the ingredients, be sure to choose a pork shoulder that's at least 2 pounds in size, as this will ensure that you have enough meat for the recipe. You should also look for thick-cut bacon that's smoked or peppered, as this will add a nice flavor to the dish.

2 lbs (900g) pork shoulderI like to use a pork shoulder that's at least 2 pounds in size, as this will ensure that you have enough meat for the recipe. Look for a shoulder that's well-marbled, as this will add flavor and tenderness to the finished dish.
6 slices of thick-cut baconI like to use thick-cut bacon for this recipe, as it holds up well to cooking and adds a nice texture to the finished tacos. Look for bacon that's smoked or peppered, as this will add a nice flavor to the dish.
2 tbsp chili powderI like to use a combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to add a rich and savory flavor to the pork. Look for a chili powder that's made from high-quality chili peppers, as this will add a deep and complex flavor to the dish.
1 tsp ground cuminI like to use ground cumin to add a warm and earthy flavor to the pork. Look for a cumin that's freshly ground, as this will add a bright and vibrant flavor to the dish.
1 tsp smoked paprikaI like to use smoked paprika to add a smoky and savory flavor to the pork. Look for a paprika that's made from high-quality smoked peppers, as this will add a deep and complex flavor to the dish.
1 tsp saltI like to use salt to add a savory flavor to the pork. Look for a salt that's freshly ground, as this will add a bright and vibrant flavor to the dish.
1/2 tsp black pepperI like to use black pepper to add a sharp and savory flavor to the pork. Look for a pepper that's freshly ground, as this will add a bright and vibrant flavor to the dish.
2 tbsp brown sugarI like to use brown sugar to add a sweet and caramelized flavor to the pork. Look for a sugar that's made from high-quality brown sugar, as this will add a deep and complex flavor to the dish.
2 tbsp lime juiceI like to use lime juice to add a bright and tangy flavor to the finished tacos. Look for a juice that's freshly squeezed, as this will add a vibrant and refreshing flavor to the dish.
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantroI like to use fresh cilantro to add a bright and fresh flavor to the finished tacos. Look for a cilantro that's freshly chopped, as this will add a vibrant and refreshing flavor to the dish.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large Dutch oven or slow cookerSharp knifeCutting boardInstant-read thermometerLarge skillet or sauté panTongs or slotted spoonTaco holders or stands

How to Make Pulled Pork Tacos

1
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2
Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, and add the brown sugar, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
3
Cover the Dutch oven or slow cooker, and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook the pork for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
4
While the pork is cooking, cook the bacon in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it's crispy and golden brown, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
5
Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, and then stir in the cooked bacon.
6
Warm the taco shells according to the package instructions. Assemble the tacos by spooning the pork mixture into the shells, and topping with your favorite toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, and salsa.
7
Serve the tacos immediately, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
8
If you're not serving the tacos right away, you can store the pork mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months. Simply thaw the frozen pork mixture overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until it's hot and steaming.
9
To reheat the tacos, simply warm the taco shells according to the package instructions, and then fill them with the reheated pork mixture. You can also add additional toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, and salsa, to give the tacos a fresh and flavorful twist.
10
If you want to get creative with your tacos, you can try adding different toppings, such as diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or sliced avocado. You can also experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken or beef, to create a unique and delicious twist on the classic pulled pork taco.
11
Finally, be sure to serve the tacos with a side of your favorite toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. This will add a fresh and flavorful element to the dish, and give your guests the opportunity to customize their tacos to their liking.

Expert Tips

Make sure to cook the pork low and slow, as this will help to break down the connective tissues and create a tender and flavorful meat.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork reaches a safe internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
Don't overcook the bacon, as this can make it tough and chewy. Instead, cook it until it's crispy and golden brown, and then remove it from the skillet.
Experiment with different types of toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, and salsa, to create a unique and delicious twist on the classic pulled pork taco.
Consider using a slow cooker to cook the pork, as this will allow you to cook it low and slow while you're busy with other tasks.
If you're short on time, you can also cook the pork in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, which will help to speed up the cooking process.
Make sure to let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding it, as this will help to lock in the juices and create a tender and flavorful meat.
Use a sharp knife to shred the pork, as this will help to create a tender and even texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pork, which can make it dry and tough.
Not letting the pork rest before shredding it, which can cause the meat to become tough and chewy.
Not using a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork reaches a safe internal temperature.
Overcrowding the skillet when cooking the bacon, which can cause it to steam instead of sear.
Not experimenting with different types of toppings, which can make the dish feel boring and repetitive.
Not using a slow cooker or pressure cooker to cook the pork, which can help to speed up the cooking process and create a tender and flavorful meat.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using different types of meat, such as chicken or beef, to create a unique and delicious twist on the classic pulled pork taco.
Experiment with different types of toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, and salsa, to create a fresh and flavorful twist on the dish.
Use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to cook the pork, which will help to speed up the cooking process and create a tender and flavorful meat.
Add some heat to the dish by using spicy toppings, such as diced jalapenos or sliced hot peppers.
Try using different types of taco shells, such as corn or whole wheat, to create a unique and delicious twist on the classic pulled pork taco.
Consider adding some freshness to the dish by using toppings like diced cilantro, lime juice, or sliced avocado.
Use a slow cooker to cook the pork, which will allow you to cook it low and slow while you're busy with other tasks.

What to Serve With Pulled Pork Tacos

Serve the pulled pork tacos with a side of your favorite toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. This will add a fresh and flavorful element to the dish, and give your guests the opportunity to customize their tacos to their liking.

Consider serving the tacos with a side of Mexican street corn, which is made by grilling corn on the cob and slathering it with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder. This will add a sweet and smoky element to the dish, and provide a nice contrast to the savory flavor of the pork.

Mexican street cornDiced onionsSour creamSalsaShredded cheeseSliced avocado

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

To store the pulled pork tacos, simply place the pork mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pork mixture for up to 2 months, and then thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it.

When reheating the tacos, simply warm the taco shells according to the package instructions, and then fill them with the reheated pork mixture. You can also add additional toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, and salsa, to give the tacos a fresh and flavorful twist.

To freeze the pork mixture, simply place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and label it with the date and contents. Then, when you're ready to reheat it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until it's hot and steaming.

Finally, be sure to reheat the tacos to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, and then serve the tacos hot and steaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pork is best for pulled pork tacos?

I like to use a pork shoulder for pulled pork tacos, as it's a tough cut that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. Look for a shoulder that's at least 2 pounds in size, and make sure to cook it to an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness and flavor.

How do I cook the pork for pulled pork tacos?

To cook the pork for pulled pork tacos, simply place it in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, and add your favorite seasonings and spices. Then, cover the pot and cook the pork low and slow, either in the oven or on the stovetop, until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).

What type of toppings are best for pulled pork tacos?

I like to use a combination of toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, and salsa, to add a fresh and flavorful element to the dish. You can also experiment with different types of toppings, such as diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or sliced avocado, to create a unique and delicious twist on the classic pulled pork taco.

Can I make pulled pork tacos ahead of time?

Yes, you can make pulled pork tacos ahead of time. Simply cook the pork and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months. Then, when you're ready to serve, simply reheat the pork and assemble the tacos with your favorite toppings.

How do I reheat pulled pork tacos?

To reheat pulled pork tacos, simply warm the taco shells according to the package instructions, and then fill them with the reheated pork mixture. You can also add additional toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, and salsa, to give the tacos a fresh and flavorful twist. Make sure to reheat the tacos to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Can I use a slow cooker to make pulled pork tacos?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make pulled pork tacos. Simply place the pork and your favorite seasonings and spices in the slow cooker, and cook it on low for 6-8 hours. Then, when you're ready to serve, simply shred the pork and assemble the tacos with your favorite toppings.

How do I freeze pulled pork tacos?

To freeze pulled pork tacos, simply place the pork mixture in a freezer-safe bag or container and label it with the date and contents. Then, when you're ready to reheat it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until it's hot and steaming.

Can I make pulled pork tacos in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can make pulled pork tacos in a pressure cooker. Simply place the pork and your favorite seasonings and spices in the pressure cooker, and cook it for 30-40 minutes. Then, when you're ready to serve, simply shred the pork and assemble the tacos with your favorite toppings.

The Full Recipe

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