slow cooker pork carnitas recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best slow cooker pork carnitas recipe

I love this slow cooker pork carnitas recipe because it makes dinner so easy. Just toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning and by dinner time you have tender, flavorful pork that falls apart. My kids love it when I make tacos with it and my husband always goes back for seconds. It is a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or for feeding a crowd on weekends. The pork is cooked low and slow which keeps it moist and packed with flavor. It is also a healthier option than frying because you get all the taste without the extra oil.

Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

4.9 from 1992 votes

These slow cooker pork carnitas are incredibly tender and full of citrus and garlic flavor. They are perfect for tacos, burritos, or salads.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

3 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon chili powder
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 orange, juiced and zested
1 lime, juiced
1/2 cup chicken broth

👨‍🍳Directions

1Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks, about 3 to 4 inches each. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork pieces.
3Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Sear the pork pieces on all sides until browned, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
4Place the seared pork in the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, orange juice and zest, lime juice, and chicken broth.
5Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork is very tender and shreds easily with a fork.
6Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
7Optional: For crispy carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the edges are crispy. Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups
Fork
Baking sheet (optional for crisping)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 40g

📝Notes

You can use boneless pork shoulder for easier shredding. The orange and lime juice add a bright flavor that balances the richness of the pork.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Works

This slow cooker pork carnitas recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is so easy to make and everyone loves it. It works perfectly for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

1. Can I use a different cut of pork for carnitas?

Yes, pork butt or pork shoulder are the best choices because they have enough fat to stay moist during long cooking. You can also use pork loin but it may be drier.

2. How do I get crispy carnitas from the slow cooker?

After shredding the pork, spread it on a baking sheet and broil it for 3 to 5 minutes. This will crisp up the edges while keeping the inside tender.

3. Can I freeze leftover carnitas?

Yes, let the carnitas cool completely then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet.

4. What can I serve with slow cooker pork carnitas?

These carnitas are great in tacos with corn tortillas, salsa, and avocado. They also work well in burrito bowls, on salads, or as a filling for quesadillas.

5. How long does it take to cook pork carnitas in the slow cooker?

Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. The pork is ready when it pulls apart easily with a fork.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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