Quick Tacos Al Pastor
Craving Al Pastor Tacos but don't have time to marinate and cook a large cut of meat? Well, let me introduce you to these super easy and Quick Tacos Al Pastor. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep. These delicious al pastor tacos can be ready to serve in just 30 minutes.
I must confess, tacos are one of my favorite things to eat, ever. I have posted a few great taco recipes on this blog, Carnitas Tacos and Birria Tacos are two of my favorites!
I fell in love with traditional tacos al pastor many years ago. There is a local to me authentic Mexican restaurant that serves the BEST al pastor tacos. They are packed with delicious spices, pineapple and super flavorful and tender marinaded pork. Those tacos inspired this quick al pastor taco recipe. Simply for the many times that Al Pastor cravings hit, and I don't have meat marinating to make them.
To cut down on the cook time, I use ground pork in this recipe instead of a larger cut that needs a long cook time. It is great for not only cooking quickly but absorbing so much flavor. Chunks of fresh, or canned pineapple, tomato paste, and a few spices and you have delicious tacos in 30 minutes.
With such little prep required to make these Quick Tacos Al Pastor I like to focus on toppings. We love our taco toppings around here!
Warm Tortillas - In a small skillet over medium high heat begin warming the corn tortillas. Place a tortilla in the pan and cook for 45 seconds, flip and cook for another 45 seconds. Remove from the pan and place in a towel, cover and continue with the remaining tortillas.
Cook Meat - In a large skillet over medium high heat, drizzle in the olive oil. Add ground pork and diced onions to the pan. Season with the spices and crumble the meat as it cooks.
Add Tomato Paste - Once the meat is cooked through turn the heat to medium low, add in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, mixing to fully combine.
Add Pineapples - Now add in the pineapple and mix well. Remove from the heat and serve on warmed tortillas. Top with your favorite toppings and sauces. Enjoy!
Any kind you want! I love using corn tortillas for tacos, but you can use flour tortillas if you want. Both types of tortillas are perfect for this taco recipe. Whenever using corn tortillas or flour tortillas it is best to warm them before using them.
Corn tortillas need to be warmed to make them more pliable. If you do not warm them, they will fall apart when you try to use them. Flour tortillas are a little more forgiving, but will soften up when warmed, which makes them easier to use.
The meat can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. The leftover meat can also be stored in the freezer for up to 5 months.
To reheat, heat over low heat in a pan on the stove. If using a microwave cover the meat with a damp paper towel to prevent the meat from drying out.
Sweet and savory Quick Tacos Al Pastor that are made in just 30 minutes. No marinating or long cook time. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prepping.
- 12 soft corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds ground pork
- 1/2 cup onion (small diced)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3/4 cup pineapple (1/4" chunks)
- as needed Cilantro
- as needed Cotija, or Queso Fresco Cheese
- as needed Onions (diced or pickled)
In a small skillet over medium high heat begin warming the corn tortillas. Place a tortilla in the pan and cook for 45 seconds, flip and cook for another 45 seconds. Remove from the pan and place in a towel, cover and continue with the remaining tortillas.
In a large skillet over medium high heat, drizzle in the olive oil. Add ground pork, onions and all of the spices. Crumble the meat as it cooks.
Add the minced garlic and tomato paste to the pan, stirring until fully incorporated.
Now add in the pineapple and mix well. Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes. Remove from the heat and serve on warmed tortillas. Top with your favorite toppings and sauces. Enjoy!
The number of servings varies depending on the amount of meat used to make each taco and the size of tortilla used.
This recipe makes approximately 12 or more tacos when using corn tortillas.
Thank you for stopping by!