If you’re craving a meal that’s full of flavor but easy to make, this Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas recipe is for you! The pork cooks low and slow until it’s tender on the inside, then gets broiled to crispy perfection on the outside. Perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, or just enjoying straight from the plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender & Crispy: The pork is juicy and flavorful, with a perfectly crisped edge from broiling.
- Easy Prep: Toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do all the work.
- Versatile: Use the carnitas for tacos, burritos, nachos, or a hearty salad.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 lb boneless pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 white onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Juice of 2 fresh limes
- Juice of 2 oranges
How to Make Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
- Season the Pork: In a small bowl, mix oregano, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pat the pork shoulder dry, then rub the seasoning all over.
- Slow Cook: Place the pork in your slow cooker with the diced onion, garlic, lime juice, and orange juice. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours (or high for 4–5 hours) until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
- Shred & Crisp: Remove the pork, shred it with two forks, and spread on a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil for 5–6 minutes until the edges turn golden and crispy.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm with tortillas, rice, or on your favorite dishes.
Tips & Variations
- Extra Flavor: Add onion or garlic powder, or toss in bell peppers while slow cooking.
- Crispy Edges: Broiling is ideal, but pan-frying the shredded pork works too.
- Alternate Meats: This recipe also works with chicken for a lighter option.
- Instant Pot Version: Need it faster? Use an Instant Pot for quick carnitas.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Enjoy these tender, juicy, and crispy pork carnitas any way you like – they’re simple, delicious, and sure to impress!