This Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas recipe makes shredded pork that’s super tender and packed with flavor. Just toss everything in the crockpot, and let it do the magic!
The best part? You can use it in tacos, burritos, or even just enjoy it on its own. I love making a big batch so I can have leftovers for days—perfect for busy weeks!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect because it becomes tender when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using pork loin, but be ready for a slightly drier texture.
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and oregano give a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have chili powder, taco seasoning works too! For a smoking flavor, add some smoked paprika.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is fantastic, but you can substitute with apple juice or even pineapple juice for a twist on flavor. Just keep the acidity balanced with lime juice.
Bay Leaves: While bay leaves add depth, you can skip them if you don’t have any at home. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary work well too, just add them towards the end of cooking.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Comes Out Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender, flavorful pork carnitas is slow cooking! Here’s how to nail it:
- First, rub the pork with olive oil and spices well, so every bite is packed with flavor.
- Use a low temperature for an extended period—8 to 10 hours on low heat is perfect for breaking down the meat’s fibers.
- Make sure to cover the crockpot tightly to keep the moisture in. If you’re tempted to peek, try to resist!
How to Make Easy Crockpot Pork Carnitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (pork butt), trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 bay leaves
For Serving:
- Tortillas
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks for 8-10 hours in the crockpot. Plan to start early in the day so you can enjoy tender pork carnitas for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by rubbing the pork shoulder with olive oil. Make sure to coat all sides well so that it has plenty of flavor. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Take this spice mixture and rub it all over the pork, covering it evenly.
2. Place in Crockpot:
Put the seasoned pork shoulder in the crockpot. Pour the orange juice and lime juice over the meat. Finally, add the bay leaves to give it that extra zing. It’s already starting to smell good!
3. Cook:
Cover the crockpot with a lid and set it to cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. Don’t rush this part—patience is key for juicy carnitas!
4. Shred the Meat:
Once cooked, carefully take the pork out of the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Make sure to get rid of the bay leaves (they’re not edible). Now, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. It should come apart easily!
5. Crisp the Shredded Pork (optional):
If you love a little crunch, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and pop it under the broiler in your oven. Broil it for about 5-10 minutes, watching closely until the edges are crispy. This step adds a delightful texture!
6. Serve:
Grab your warm tortillas and fill them with the delicious pork carnitas. Garnish with lime wedges and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if you want to add a fresh touch. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is traditional for carnitas due to its tenderness and fat content, you can also use pork loin or even chicken thighs. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, with leaner cuts cooking faster, so keep an eye on them!
What If I Don’t Have Orange Juice?
No orange juice? No problem! You can substitute it with apple juice, pineapple juice, or even a mix of water and vinegar for acidity. Just adjust the amount to taste, as those juices may vary in sweetness.
How to Store Leftover Carnitas?
Store any leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the shredded pork in portions. Just remember to cool it completely before freezing and use within 3 months for the best flavor!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the carnitas up to step 4 and store the shredded pork in the fridge. When ready to serve, just warm it up and broil it for a couple of minutes to add that crispy texture before serving. Perfect for meal prep!
