June 19, 2026 · 5 min

Southwest Pork Tacos with Cilantro Slaw and Monterey Jack

Dinner5 min967 cal / serving

These Southwest pork tacos are the ultimate quick and satisfying dinner. Spiced ground pork and onions are piled into warm flour tortillas, then topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese, a bright cilantro slaw and a dollop of sour cream. The tangy slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the savory pork perfectly.

This recipe comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy taco night any night!


Recipe details

Dinner5 min967 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories967 kcalProtein33.8 gFat65.6 gCarbs56.6 gSugar18.3 gFiber3.9 gSodium1278 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: containsFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: containsSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Yellow Onion1 unit Yellow OnionView ingredient guide
Cilantro0.25 ounce CilantroView ingredient guide
Rice Wine Vinegar5 teaspoon Rice Wine VinegarView ingredient guide
Ground Pork10 ounce Ground PorkView ingredient guide
Shredded Red Cabbage4 ounce Shredded Red CabbageView ingredient guide
Mayonnaise2 tablespoon MayonnaiseView ingredient guide
Tex-Mex Paste1 unit Tex-Mex PasteView ingredient guide
Flour Tortillas6 unit Flour TortillasView ingredient guide
Sour Cream1.5 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guide
Cooking Oil1 teaspoon Cooking OilView ingredient guide
SaltSalt to tasteView ingredient guide
PepperPepper to tasteView ingredient guide
Sugar1 teaspoon SugarView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry all produce. Halve, peel and finely dice the onion. Finely chop the cilantro.
  2. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and a pinch of salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened and lightly browned, 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the ground pork and Southwest spice blend to the pan. Cook, breaking up the meat into pieces, until browned and cooked through, 4-6 minutes. If there is excess grease, carefully pour it out.
  4. While the pork cooks, in a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, mayonnaise, half the cilantro, half the rice wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to make the slaw.
  5. Stir the Tex-Mex paste into the pan with the pork mixture until fully coated. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Remove the pan from heat.
  6. Wrap the tortillas in damp paper towels and microwave until warm and pliable, about 30 seconds.
  7. Divide the tortillas between plates. Fill each with the pork mixture, then top with Monterey Jack cheese, the cabbage slaw, sour cream and the remaining cilantro. Serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

For best results, use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the pork.

Warm the tortillas just before serving to keep them pliable.

FAQ

Can I use ground beef or chicken instead of pork?

Yes, ground beef or chicken can be substituted. Adjust cooking time as needed until fully cooked.

What can I use instead of Tex-Mex paste?

You can substitute with 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste mixed with a pinch of chili powder and cumin.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the pork filling and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork before serving.

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