This Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas recipe makes cooking a breeze! Just toss pork, spices, and some citrus in your crockpot, and let it do the magic. You’ll have tender, flavorful meat without the fuss.
I love how I can just set it and forget it! Perfect for tacos or nachos, and guess what? The leftovers freeze really well, so it’s like having a tasty meal waiting for me later! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for carnitas because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with pork loin, but it won’t be as juicy.
Olive Oil: I recommend using olive oil for searing the pork, as it has a nice flavor. However, you can replace it with vegetable oil or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Onion: Yellow onions are great here due to their sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, you can use white onions or even shallots for a slightly different taste.
Spices: Ground cumin and oregano are key for flavor. If you don’t have cumin, try using coriander for a slightly different but still delicious flavor. Look out for fresh herbs when possible—they can brighten the dish!
Juices: The orange and lime juices add acidity that balances the richness of the pork. If you don’t have oranges, a splash of pineapple juice can be a fun substitute!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Shredded Pork?
The shredding step is crucial for great carnitas. To make sure you get fork-tender pork, follow these tips:
- Cook the pork until it’s very tender—6-8 hours on low is ideal!
- Let the meat rest for a few minutes after removing it from the crockpot. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps it moist.
- Use two forks to gently pull apart the pork. If it’s cooked well, it should shred easily.
If you want a crispy texture, broiling the shredded pork after cooking is a great touch. Just spread it out on a baking sheet and broil until the edges are crispy!
Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1 onion, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Juices:
- 1 orange, juiced (and peel can be added)
- 1 lime, juiced (plus extra wedges for serving)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Sliced jalapeños
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Corn or flour tortillas for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then will cook in the crockpot for 4-8 hours, depending on your setting. So, you can set it up in the morning and have a delicious meal ready by dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Pork (Optional but Recommended):
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, carefully sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned, which takes about 4-5 minutes per side. This step makes the pork extra flavorful, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this part.
2. Preparing the Crockpot:
Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of your crockpot. This creates a flavorful base for the pork to sit on.
3. Seasoning the Meat:
Take your seared pork and season it with the cumin, oregano, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub those spices into the meat really well to ensure it’s packed with flavor.
4. Adding Juices:
Next, place the seasoned pork on top of the onions and garlic in the crockpot. Pour the fresh orange juice and lime juice over the pork. If you like, you can add the peels from the orange for an extra citrusy kick!
5. Cooking the Pork:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The pork should be super tender and easily shredded with a fork when it’s done.
6. Shredding the Pork:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
7. Optional Crisping Step:
If you want to add a bit of crunch to your carnitas, you can place the shredded meat under a broiler for about 5-10 minutes until it’s browned and crispy. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Serving:
Serve the carnitas in warm tortillas, with lime wedges on the side. Don’t forget to top with your choice of chopped cilantro, diced avocado, jalapeños, salsa, or sour cream. Enjoy your delicious and easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal for its flavor and fat content, you can substitute with pork loin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it might be less tender and could dry out a bit, so be sure to monitor the cooking time closely and potentially reduce it.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch more chili powder to the seasoning mix. You can also serve the carnitas with a spicy salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick at the table!
What Should I Do with Leftover Carnitas?
Leftover carnitas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze well! Just cool the meat completely before freezing, then store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to use and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Can I Cook This on the Stovetop Instead?
Yes, you can! After searing the meat in a large pot, add the onions, garlic, juices, and spices, then cover and simmer on low heat for about 2-3 hours. Just be sure to check occasionally and add a bit of water or broth if it starts to dry out!
