Slow Cooker Carnitas

If you’re craving tender, flavorful pork that practically melts in your mouth, slow cooker carnitas is the answer. This recipe transforms a simple pork shoulder into a mouthwatering Mexican classic with layers of smoky, tangy, and savory notes. The best part? You can set it and forget it in your slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re serving it in tacos, burritos, or on its own with your favorite sides, these carnitas will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Carnitas, meaning “little meats” in Spanish, are traditionally slow-cooked pork that’s shredded and crisped to perfection. What makes this slow cooker version stand out is its simplicity and depth of flavor. The combination of ground cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and citrus juices infuse the pork with a beautiful balance of earthiness and brightness. Adding diced green chiles or jalapeños introduces a subtle kick that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering the meat. Plus, the slow cooker method guarantees tender, juicy pork every time with minimal effort. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy authentic, restaurant-quality carnitas at home.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin – adds warmth and earthiness
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano – brings a subtle herbal note
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – delivers a smoky depth
• 2 teaspoons salt – enhances all the flavors
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – adds a mild heat
• 3-5 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), boneless and skinless, washed and patted dry – the star of the dish, tender and juicy when slow-cooked
• 5 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and flavorful
• 4-ounce can diced green chiles or fresh diced jalapeños – for a slight kick and brightness
• 1 yellow onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth
• 2 oranges, juiced – provides essential citrus brightness and tenderizes the meat
• 2 limes, juiced – adds tangy acidity to balance the richness

How To Make Slow Cooker Carnitas

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder

Start by rinsing your pork shoulder under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture so the seasoning sticks well.

Step 2: Mix the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix these together until evenly blended.

Step 3: Season the Pork

Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Add Aromatics and Citrus

Place the chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, and diced green chiles or jalapeños at the bottom of your slow cooker. Set the seasoned pork shoulder on top. Pour the freshly squeezed orange and lime juices over the pork.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Let the pork cook for 8 to 10 hours, or until it is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 6: Shred the Pork

Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat.

Step 7: Crisp the Carnitas (Optional but Recommended)

For authentic texture, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5-7 minutes until the edges get beautifully crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can crisp the carnitas in a hot skillet on the stovetop.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your carnitas in warm corn or flour tortillas with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado, or salsa.

Expert Tips

• Choose a pork shoulder with a good balance of meat and fat for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t skip the citrus juices—they’re key to tenderizing the meat and brightening the overall flavor.
• For extra smoky flavor, consider adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the slow cooker.
• If you want to save time, you can skip the broiling step, but crisping the edges really elevates the dish.
• Make sure to shred the pork finely so every bite is infused with those amazing flavors.
• Leftover carnitas make excellent meal prep for tacos, salads, or burrito bowls throughout the week.

Variations and Customizations

• Spice Level: Add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier carnitas.
• Herbs: Fresh cilantro stirred in after cooking adds a fresh herbal note.
• Cooking Method: For a quicker option, try cooking the pork in an Instant Pot on high pressure for about 60 minutes.
• Serving Styles: Use carnitas as a topping for nachos, in quesadillas, or even as a hearty filling for stuffed peppers.
• Accompaniments: Pair with pickled red onions, sliced radishes, or a drizzle of crema (or a dairy-free alternative) for extra layers of flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Once your carnitas have cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and optionally crisp the edges again. For longer storage, carnitas freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of pork for carnitas?

While pork shoulder is ideal due to its fat content and tenderness, you can use pork loin or pork leg, but the result will be leaner and might not shred as easily.

Is it necessary to crisp the carnitas after slow cooking?

No, it’s not necessary, but crisping the carnitas adds a delightful texture contrast and enhances the overall flavor, making it more authentic.

Can I make this recipe in an oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Cook the seasoned pork shoulder covered in a Dutch oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours until tender, then shred and crisp under the broiler.

What can I serve with carnitas?

Carnitas pair well with warm tortillas, rice, black beans, guacamole, salsa, pickled onions, and fresh cilantro for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Slow cooker carnitas are a deliciously effortless way to enjoy a classic Mexican favorite at home. With simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you get tender, juicy pork bursting with vibrant flavors from cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and fresh citrus. Whether you’re planning taco night, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try, and watch how quickly carnitas become a beloved go-to in your kitchen!