Easy Crockpot Carnitas Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the aroma that fills your home when you make Easy Crockpot Carnitas. This recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth pork with the perfect balance of savory, citrusy, and slightly smoky flavor, all with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, so you’re rewarded with juicy, tender carnitas that are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a taco night with friends, this dish makes everyone happy — and you’ll love how simple it is to put together!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Easy Crockpot Carnitas comes down to a handful of well-chosen, everyday ingredients. Each one adds a subtle layer to the flavor or texture, making the final dish both vibrant and comforting. Let’s take a look at what makes this recipe irresistible:
- Pork shoulder: This cut brings juicy, tender meat that shreds perfectly for classic carnitas.
- Olive oil: Searing the pork in olive oil intensifies the flavor right from the start.
- Onion: Quartered onion adds savory depth and a slightly sweet undertone as it cooks down.
- Garlic: Four cloves of minced garlic infuse every bite with boldness.
- Ground cumin: Earthy cumin is essential for that signature Mexican flavor.
- Chili powder: Brings heat and a gentle smokiness, giving the carnitas that classic kick.
- Dried oregano: Adds herbal brightness and balances the richness of the pork.
- Salt: Just the right amount to bring all the flavors together.
- Black pepper: A half teaspoon adds a gentle background spice without overpowering the dish.
- Orange (juiced, with spent halves): Fresh orange juice gives a citrusy zing; toss in the peels for even more aromatic oils.
- Lime (juiced): Lime juice wakes up the flavors and makes the pork taste bright.
- Chicken broth: Moistens everything and helps the spices meld beautifully as the pork cooks low and slow.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Carnitas
Step 1: Brown the Pork
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the pork shoulder chunks in the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Brown all sides of the pork for 3–4 minutes per side. This step isn’t just about color — it’s where you build deep flavor and those irresistible crispy bits that make Easy Crockpot Carnitas so craveable.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Once your pork is beautifully seared, place it right into your slow cooker. Add the quartered onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper directly over the pork. Toss to distribute the spices, then make sure everything is nestled together for flavor magic to happen.
Step 3: Add Citrus and Broth
Squeeze the juice from the orange and lime over the pork mixture. Drop the spent orange halves right into the slow cooker so the oils and zest can perfume the meat as it cooks. Pour in a cup of chicken broth, which will keep things juicy and help meld all those beautiful flavors during the slow cook.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 8–9 hours, or high for 4–5 hours. Now comes the hands-off magic! By the end of the cook time, your pork should be meltingly tender and super easy to shred. The kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly — the true hallmark of great Easy Crockpot Carnitas.
Step 5: Shred and Crisp
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. For those signature crispy edges, spread the shredded carnitas out on a large baking sheet. Broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely so it gets crisp and caramelized without burning. This final step transforms good carnitas into utterly irresistible carnitas!
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Carnitas
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can let your creativity shine! Think of fresh cilantro leaves, diced onion, chunks of creamy avocado, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese. Pickled red onions add beautiful color and tang, while a squeeze of fresh lime delivers a bright, zesty finish to every bite.
Side Dishes
Serve Easy Crockpot Carnitas alongside warm corn or flour tortillas for effortless taco assembly. Classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, elote (street corn), or a crisp slaw pair beautifully. Don’t forget chips and guac for good measure — every great meal deserves a little something crunchy on the side!
Creative Ways to Present
While carnitas tacos are always a hit, you can also use this pork for burrito bowls, nachos, or even atop a fresh green salad. Slide some into quesadillas or pile it high onto a tostada for party-perfect bites. Carnitas also make an amazing breakfast hash with eggs and potatoes!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, transfer leftover Easy Crockpot Carnitas to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll keep deliciously for up to four days, making lunch or quick dinners both easy and exciting all week long.
Freezing
To freeze, divide portions into resealable freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. The carnitas will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating — and enjoy that slow-cooked goodness anytime!
Reheating
For best results, reheat carnitas on a baking sheet under the broiler to bring back those signature crispy edges. You can also warm them on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep things juicy, or microwave if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Crockpot Carnitas without browning the pork first?
Absolutely! While browning adds extra depth and flavor, you can skip this step for an even quicker prep. The pork will still become outrageously tender in the slow cooker.
Is pork shoulder the only cut I can use?
Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is the classic choice for Easy Crockpot Carnitas because it’s marbled and shreds easily. In a pinch, you could try pork loin or even boneless country-style ribs, but keep in mind they may turn out a bit leaner and less juicy.
Can I cook the carnitas on high instead of low?
Yes, if you’re pressed for time, set your slow cooker to high and cook the carnitas for 4–5 hours. Just make sure to check for tenderness — you want the pork to easily fall apart when shredded.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To dial up the heat, add a pinch of cayenne, a diced jalapeño, or a few chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the slow cooker. Customize the spice level so it’s just right for your crew!
What are some topping ideas for carnitas tacos?
There’s no wrong way to top a carnitas taco! Some favorites are creamy slaw, diced tomatoes, sliced radishes, crumbled queso fresco, fresh salsa, or pineapple salsa for a sweet touch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a meal that’s big on flavor but easy on your schedule, you can’t beat Easy Crockpot Carnitas. This is the kind of recipe you’ll fall in love with and make again and again, because it always delivers. Gather your spices, dust off your slow cooker, and treat yourself—you deserve these incredibly delicious carnitas!
Print
Easy Crockpot Carnitas Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Crockpot Carnitas recipe is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy tender, flavorful shredded pork. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can let your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or salads, these carnitas are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Pork Carnitas:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 orange, juiced (reserve the spent halves)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Brown the Pork: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chunks on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Transfer the pork to a slow cooker. Add onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, chicken broth, and add the orange halves.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8–9 hours or on high for 4–5 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
- Crisp the Edges: For crispy edges, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until edges are browned and crispy.
- Serve: Serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Leftover carnitas are great for tacos, burritos, or salads.
- You can add a splash of cola or beer for a different flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
