Crockpot Carnitas Recipe: Tender, Juicy, and Full of Flavor!

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe to make tender, flavorful carnitas, this Crockpot Carnitas Recipe is the answer! 🐖🍽️ Slow-cooked to perfection, these carnitas are perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a filling for your favorite dishes. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress!

Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’ll make you the star of the kitchen. 🌟

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Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Carnitas Recipe 🌟

• Super Easy: The crockpot does all the work for you. Just prep and set it!
• Tender and Juicy: Slow cooking allows the pork to become incredibly tender and packed with flavor.
• Versatile: Perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, and more!
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

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Key Ingredients for Crockpot Carnitas 🛒

Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouthwatering carnitas:

🐖 For the Pork:

• 4 pounds of pork shoulder (or pork butt) – This cut of meat is perfect for slow cooking and becomes incredibly tender.
• 1 onion – Sliced thinly to add flavor during cooking.
• 4 cloves of garlic – Minced for that aromatic base.
• 1 orange – You’ll need both zest and juice for that fresh citrus kick. 🍊
• 1 lime – For a tangy addition to balance the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil – For browning the pork (optional).
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin – A must-have for that earthy, warm flavor. 🌱
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder – Adds depth and spice. 🌶️
• 1 teaspoon of paprika – For a smoky touch. 🔥
• 1 teaspoon of oregano – To bring in some herbal freshness.
• Salt and pepper – To taste for seasoning. 🧂
• 1 cup of chicken broth – Helps keep the pork moist and flavorful. 🍗

🌶️ Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro – Chopped for a burst of freshness.
• Sliced radishes – For a crunchy, peppery contrast.
• Lime wedges – For extra citrusy zing.
• Diced onions – Adds a nice crunch.

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How to Make Crockpot Carnitas 🍽️

Step 1: Prep the Pork and Seasoning 🔪

Start by cutting your pork shoulder into large chunks. This will help it cook evenly and shred more easily once it’s done.

In a small bowl, mix together cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork chunks, making sure each piece is well-coated.

Step 2: Sear the Pork (Optional) 🔥

Although this step is optional, searing the pork in olive oil over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side will give it a deeper flavor. This step helps to caramelize the outside of the pork, adding a delicious crispy texture.

If you’re short on time or prefer a simpler method, you can skip this step and go straight to the crockpot!

Step 3: Add to the Crockpot 🥘

Place the seasoned pork chunks into your crockpot. Add in the sliced onion, minced garlic, and the juice from the orange and lime. You’ll also want to throw the zest of the orange into the pot for an added burst of citrus flavor. Pour in the chicken broth to help everything cook gently and stay moist.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow 🕒

Cover the crockpot and cook the pork on low heat for 7-8 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours. The goal is for the pork to become incredibly tender and easy to shred with a fork.

During the last 30 minutes of cooking, check to make sure there’s enough liquid in the pot. If it looks like it’s drying out, add a little more chicken broth or water.

Step 5: Shred the Pork 🧑‍🍳

Once the pork is tender and cooked through, remove the pieces from the crockpot and transfer them to a large bowl or plate. Use two forks to shred the pork. It should come apart easily.

You can discard any large pieces of fat or bones if they haven’t already separated during cooking.

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Step 6: Crisping the Carnitas (Optional but Highly Recommended!) 🔥

For that crispy, caramelized exterior, you can take the shredded pork and crisp it up in a hot skillet. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to your carnitas.

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shredded pork and let it cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes. Then, stir and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the edges of the meat to crisp up and get golden brown. This step really takes your carnitas to the next level!

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Serving Ideas for Crockpot Carnitas 🌮🍽️

Now that your carnitas are ready, it’s time to serve them up! Here are some tasty ideas:

• Tacos – The classic option. Serve the carnitas on soft corn tortillas with fresh cilantro, diced onions, a squeeze of lime, and your favorite salsa.
• Burritos – Stuff your burritos with carnitas, rice, beans, guacamole, and sour cream for a hearty meal.
• Salads – Add the carnitas to a bed of lettuce, avocado, corn, black beans, and a tangy dressing.
• Nachos – Pile the carnitas on tortilla chips and top with melted cheese, jalapeños, and a drizzle of sour cream.
• Sandwiches – Use the carnitas as a filling for sliders or sandwiches, topped with coleslaw for some crunch.

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Storage and Reheating Tips 🧊

🏠 Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover carnitas, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the carnitas for up to 3 months.

🔥 Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, here’s how to reheat the carnitas:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the carnitas in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat the carnitas in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little broth or water to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: For a quicker option, microwave the carnitas in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

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Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Carnitas 🍴

• Use Pork Shoulder or Butt: These cuts have a good amount of fat, which helps keep the carnitas juicy and flavorful during slow cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Citrus: The orange and lime juice adds a necessary layer of freshness and balances out the richness of the pork.
• Slow and Low: For the best texture, cook the carnitas on low heat. High heat can dry out the meat.
• Crisp for Texture: Don’t skip the step of crisping up the pork in a hot skillet. It gives the carnitas an extra layer of flavor and texture!

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FAQs about Crockpot Carnitas 🤔

1. Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork?

While pork shoulder or butt is recommended, you can also use pork loin. Just keep in mind that pork loin is leaner and may not shred as well or stay as juicy.

2. Can I Make These Carnitas Ahead of Time?

Yes! These carnitas are perfect for meal prep. You can make them a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.

3. Can I Add More Spice to the Carnitas?

Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier carnitas, you can add some chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use a spicier chili powder. Adjust the heat to your liking!

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Conclusion: A Flavorful and Easy Crockpot Meal 🐖✨

This Crockpot Carnitas Recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful, satisfying meal with minimal effort. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re using it for tacos, burritos, or any other creation, these carnitas are sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe and enjoy the mouthwatering results! 🌮🔥