This Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas recipe makes tender and flavorful meat that you can enjoy in tacos, burritos, or even on its own! It’s made with simple ingredients and lots of spices.
Cooking it in a crockpot means less fuss for you. Just set it and forget it while the delicious smells fill your kitchen. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! 😋
I love serving this with fresh toppings like cilantro and lime – it makes every bite feel extra special. Plus, it’s great for gatherings, so you can relax and enjoy time with loved ones!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for carnitas due to its marbling, which keeps the meat tender. If pork shoulder isn’t available, use pork loin or boneless chicken thighs for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for searing pork, but you can swap it with vegetable oil or avocado oil. Both work well at higher heat and have a neutral taste.
Onion & Garlic: These aromatics add a great base flavor. If you want a milder taste, try using shallots instead of onions. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch—1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Juices: Fresh orange juice brightens the dish, while lime juice adds tang. If you’re out of fresh fruits, bottled juice is okay, but check for added sugars. For a different flavor, try using pineapple juice.
Spices: Cumin and oregano are essential for authentic flavor. If you’re missing any spices, chili powder can stand alone as a substitute, but adding paprika and some cayenne can replicate a well-rounded taste.
How Do I Ensure My Pork is Perfectly Tender?
The secret to tender carnitas is the slow cooking process. Cooking low and slow allows the connective tissues in the pork to break down, leading to melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
- Trim excess fat for a leaner dish, but leave some for flavor.
- Searing the pork is optional, but it enhances the flavor. Make sure your oil is hot before adding the pork to get a good browning.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure; the pork should reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) for perfect shredding.
Let the pork rest a few minutes before shredding. This keeps the juices in the meat, making it extra flavorful!
Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 orange, juiced (and peel reserved)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced onions
- Sliced jalapeños
- Lime wedges
- Tortillas for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot pork carnitas recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. Total time depends on how long you choose to cook the pork, so plan accordingly for a flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks to help it cook evenly in the crockpot. This step is important for ensuring tender, shredded meat!
2. Sear the Pork:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chunks to sear them until they’re nice and golden brown on all sides. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and just place the pork directly into the crockpot.
3. Add to Crockpot:
Carefully transfer the seared pork to the crockpot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic right on top of the pork. This will give your carnitas a lovely aroma as they cook!
4. Add Juices and Spices:
Pour the fresh juice from the orange and lime over the pork. Then, sprinkle the ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together gently to combine all the flavors.
5. Add the Orange Peel:
Don’t forget to toss in the reserved orange peel into the crockpot! This little addition will help infuse the pork with even more citrusy goodness while it cooks.
6. Cook the Pork:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The pork should become very tender and shred easily with a fork when it’s done.
7. Shred the Pork:
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the meat until it’s nice and fluffy. Be sure to discard any large chunks of fat and the orange peel.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Return the shredded pork to the crockpot to keep warm and let it soak in the delicious juices for a few minutes. Serve warm with tortillas and your choice of toppings like cilantro, diced onions, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges. Enjoy your tasty homemade pork carnitas!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is recommended for its marbling and flavor, you can use pork loin or any other cut you prefer. Just note that leaner cuts might not be as tender or juicy, so cook them for a shorter time and check for tenderness to avoid drying them out!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Definitely! To spice things up, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. You can also serve with spicy toppings like hot salsa or sliced fresh jalapeños for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them! Just be sure to let the meat cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make Carnitas in Advance?
You can definitely make carnitas ahead of time! Cook the pork and then shred it as instructed. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in the crockpot or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist!
