Authentic Slow Cooker Carnitas: The Best Mexican Pulled Pork Recipe

Mexican pulled pork, or carnitas, is a truly versatile and flavorful dish that forms the heart of countless incredible Mexican meals. This exceptional Carnitas recipe delivers a burst of authentic flavor with minimal effort, making it perfectly suited for preparation in your trusty slow cooker. Prepare to transform your kitchen into a haven of enticing aromas!

There’s a special kind of magic that comes with slow-cooker meals, isn’t there? The sheer convenience of tossing a few simple ingredients into your crock pot in the morning and returning home to a kitchen filled with the most incredible aromas is truly unbeatable. This particular carnitas recipe embodies that magic, offering minimal prep time and maximum flavor payoff. Once cooked to tender perfection, simply shred the succulent meat, and it’s ready to be served however your heart desires – be it in tacos, burritos, or over rice.

My deep appreciation for Mexican cuisine truly blossomed thanks to a wonderful Mexican grocery store in South Omaha. It’s not just any grocery store; it’s a vibrant marketplace bursting with unique products and ingredients that you rarely find in standard supermarkets. But the real gem, the heart of this culinary haven, is what appears to be a “deli counter” in the back. It’s far more than a typical deli; it’s a portal to authentic Mexican flavors.

At this incredible counter, you can find the most amazing homemade salsas, perfectly crisp chips, tender tamales, rich enchiladas, perfectly seasoned whole chickens, aromatic Mexican rice, and – my absolute favorite – fresh, mouthwatering carnitas. And, of course, the carnitas burritos! There’s an unwritten rule that a burrito must be acquired for the ride home; who could possibly wait until they arrive? They wrap it up warm, and as you head out the door, you grab a cold Jarritos, which they expertly open for you at the checkout. It’s a small ritual, but it feels nothing short of heavenly. My love for Mexican food runs deep, and experiencing these authentic flavors fueled my desire to create and share a fantastic Carnitas recipe right here on my website.

Why You Will Love This Easy Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe

Preparing delicious, authentic carnitas at home has never been easier, and this slow cooker recipe offers a multitude of reasons to become your new favorite:

Effortlessly Easy to Make: These are truly the best slow-cooker carnitas you’ll ever experience! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. A well-seasoned pork roast slowly cooks in the crockpot for hours, transforming into incredibly succulent, fork-tender meat that practically melts in your mouth. The most challenging part of the entire process is simply waiting for the incredible aroma to fill your home as the carnitas cook to perfection!

Made with Simple, Accessible Ingredients: Beyond the star of the show – the pork – you’ll find that most of the ingredients required for this recipe are likely already staples in your pantry. We’re talking about everyday items like onions, garlic, and common spices that come together to create an extraordinary depth of flavor. No exotic or hard-to-find components are needed, making this a go-to recipe for any weeknight or special occasion.

Economical and Family-Friendly: Cooking at home is always a smart way to save money, and this carnitas recipe is particularly budget-friendly. By keeping an eye out for pork roasts on sale, you can create a truly satisfying and hearty family dinner for a fraction of the cost of dining out. This recipe yields a generous amount, perfect for feeding a crowd or for enjoying delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Incredibly Versatile: Once you have a batch of this tender, flavorful carnitas, the culinary possibilities are endless! It serves as an amazing base for tacos, burritos, nachos, bowls, and so much more. This versatility makes it ideal for meal prepping or for creative weeknight dinners, ensuring you never get bored.

If you fall in love with this fantastic dish, be sure to explore these other tasty slow cooker recipes too: Slow Cooker Buffalo Pulled Pork and Dorothy’s Pulled Pork in the Crockpot. They offer similarly easy preparation and delicious results!

 

Creative Ways to Serve Carnitas

The beauty of slow cooker carnitas lies in their incredible versatility. This recipe provides a fantastic foundation that can be transformed into a myriad of delicious meals. Here are some of the most popular and mouthwatering ways to enjoy your homemade carnitas:

• Carnitas Tacos: The classic choice! Serve the tender shredded pork in warm corn or flour tortillas, topped with your favorite garnishes.
• Carnitas Sliders: For a smaller, crowd-pleasing bite, use them in mini buns with a touch of slaw. Check out these carnitas sliders for inspiration.
• Burrito Bowls: A healthier and equally delicious option. Pile carnitas over a bed of rice with beans, corn, salsa, and avocado, like this Chipotle burrito bowl.
• Carnitas Enchiladas: Stuff tortillas with the savory pork, roll them up, cover with enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly. Try these pork carnitas enchiladas.
• Nachos Extravaganza: Layer crispy tortilla chips with carnitas, cheese, and all your favorite nacho toppings for an ultimate snack or meal. These carnitas nachos are a must-try!

Beyond these popular choices, you can simply serve the carnitas over baked potatoes, alongside fluffy rice, or as the flavorful protein in a vibrant taco salad. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these delightful carnitas are sure to be a hit!

Recommended Garnishes and Toppings for Carnitas

To elevate your carnitas experience, pair them with a selection of fresh and flavorful garnishes and toppings. These additions provide contrasting textures and bright, zesty notes that perfectly complement the rich pork:

• Red onion: Finely diced or thinly sliced for a sharp, fresh bite.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped for a burst of herbaceous freshness.
• Avocado or guacamole: Creamy and rich, adding a lovely texture and healthy fats.
• Pico de gallo or salsa: For fresh, vibrant flavor and a hint of spice.
• Black beans or Refried beans: Hearty and essential for a complete Mexican meal.
• Cheese: Shredded Monterey Jack, Cotija, or your favorite blend for a savory, melty addition.
• Corn: Fresh, roasted, or grilled kernels for sweetness and texture.
• Sour cream or Mexican crema: To add a cooling, tangy counterpoint.
• Lime wedges: A crucial squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens all the flavors.

Perfect Side Dishes for Carnitas

While carnitas are a meal in themselves, pairing them with the right side dishes can create a truly unforgettable feast. Here are some of my top recommendations to serve alongside your tender pork:

• Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant and zesty rice that complements the savory pork beautifully.
• Queso: A warm, cheesy dip perfect for tortilla chips and drizzling over your carnitas.
• Easy Homemade Refried Beans: Far superior to canned, these creamy beans are a staple.
• Tortilla Soup: A comforting and flavorful soup that adds another layer of Mexican goodness.
• Blueberry Margaritas: For those adult gatherings, a refreshing and festive cocktail to sip alongside your meal!

Essential Ingredients for This Flavorful Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Recipe

Crafting the perfect slow cooker carnitas begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that rich, tender, and authentic Mexican flavor:

• Pork Shoulder (Bone-In Roast or Boneless Pork Butt): This is the cornerstone of great carnitas. You’ll need approximately a 5-pound roast. Pork shoulder (also known as “Boston butt” or “pork butt”) is ideal due to its excellent fat marbling, which renders down during slow cooking, infusing the meat with incredible moisture and flavor. While shoulder is preferred, you could also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option, though the cooking time and final texture might vary slightly.
• Onion: A whole chopped white or yellow onion adds a foundational aromatic sweetness that balances the savory pork. For a convenient shortcut, you can easily find pre-chopped onions in the produce or frozen section of your grocery store.
• Jalapeno: Seeded, ribs removed, and chopped. The jalapeno provides a subtle warmth and authentic Mexican flavor without overwhelming heat. Removing the seeds and ribs significantly reduces the spice level, so if you prefer more heat, you can leave some in.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning the pork and drawing out its natural flavors. We use a generous amount to ensure the large cut of meat is well-seasoned throughout.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper offers a superior aroma and brighter, more pungent flavor compared to pre-ground varieties.
• Garlic: Minced garlic cloves contribute an indispensable pungent and savory base note. You can mince your own fresh cloves for the best flavor, or opt for pre-minced garlic for convenience. If you’re in a pinch, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can be used in the spice mixture in lieu of fresh garlic.
• Oranges: The juice from two fresh oranges is a secret weapon in authentic carnitas. The acidity helps to tenderize the pork while also imparting a bright, sweet, and slightly tangy citrus flavor. Alternatively, you can use ⅔ cup of already squeezed orange juice.
• Dried Oregano: Mexican oregano is traditionally used, offering a slightly more earthy and citrusy note than Mediterranean oregano. It’s a key spice that contributes to the distinctive flavor profile of carnitas.
• Ground Cumin: A warm, earthy, and slightly pungent spice that is fundamental to Mexican cuisine and pairs perfectly with pork.
• Olive Oil: Used to create the spice rub, helping it adhere to the pork and contributing to the overall richness. Vegetable oil can also be used as a suitable alternative.

How to Make These Succulent Pork Shoulder Carnitas in Your Slow Cooker

Achieving perfectly tender and flavorful carnitas at home is surprisingly straightforward with a slow cooker. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result:

STEP ONE: Prepare the Pork and Spice Rub

Begin by combining the olive oil, dried oregano, and ground cumin in a small bowl; set this fragrant spice mixture aside. Next, take your pork roast, rinse it thoroughly under cold water, and pat it completely dry with paper towels. A dry surface helps the seasonings adhere better. Generously rub the entire surface of the pork with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Now, take the previously prepared olive oil and spice mixture and vigorously rub it all over the pork roast, ensuring every inch is coated for maximum flavor penetration.

STEP TWO: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Carefully place the seasoned pork roast into your slow cooker. Then, generously top the roast with the chopped onions, minced garlic, and the chopped jalapeno. These aromatics will slowly infuse the pork with deep, complex flavors as it cooks.

Next, take your two fresh oranges and squeeze their juice directly over the top of the pork and other ingredients. The citrus juice is crucial for tenderizing the meat and adding a bright, authentic flavor to your carnitas.

STEP THREE: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on the LOW setting for 8-10 hours. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker and the size of your roast. The goal is for the pork to become incredibly tender, easily shreddable with a fork. Resist the urge to open the lid frequently, as this releases heat and extends the cooking time.

STEP FOUR: Shred and Finish

Once the pork is cooked, carefully remove the meat from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or in a shallow dish. Using two forks or specialized pulled pork shredder claws, shred the meat into desired pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat or bone.

Before returning the meat to the slow cooker, use a slotted spoon to skim off and discard any excess fat from the cooking liquid remaining in the crockpot. This step ensures your carnitas are flavorful but not greasy. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, allowing it to soak up all those delicious juices and stay warm until serving.

Now your perfectly tender and flavorful shredded pork is ready to use however you desire. For that signature carnitas crispiness, see the “Tips and Tricks” section below!

 

Love these tender pork carnitas? Don’t forget to save this recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you go!

Frequently Asked Questions About Carnitas

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying slow cooker carnitas:

• What is the difference between pork butt and pork shoulder?
  Both pork butt (also known as Boston butt) and pork shoulder are cuts from the shoulder of the pig, but they are distinct. Despite its name, pork butt actually comes from the upper part of the front leg, higher on the shoulder. It’s typically a rectangular cut, well-marbled with fat, making it incredibly tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. Pork shoulder (or picnic shoulder) is located just below the butt on the foreleg and often includes the bone and skin. Both cuts are relatively tough and fatty, which makes them perfect for long, slow cooking methods like roasting, stewing, braising, and, of course, cooking in a crockpot. They break down beautifully to yield succulent, shreddable meat. For food safety, both cuts should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145-160 degrees F, though for shredding, they often reach much higher temperatures (up to 200-205°F) where the collagen breaks down completely.
• What is the difference between pulled pork and carnitas?
  The term “carnitas” is Spanish and literally translates to “little meats,” which is essentially a specific type of pulled pork. While both involve slow-cooked, shredded pork, the primary difference lies in their flavor profiles and cooking liquids. Pulled pork is typically cooked with a sweeter BBQ sauce, often featuring smoky, tangy, and sweet notes. Carnitas, on the other hand, are traditionally seasoned with Mexican spices like cumin and oregano, and most notably, cooked with citrus juices (like orange and lime), giving them a brighter, savory, and less sweet flavor. After being slow-cooked, carnitas are often crisped up in a pan or under a broiler for those delicious, slightly charred edges, a step not always associated with American-style pulled pork.
• Do I need to add liquid to slow cooker pork shoulder?
  Yes, you do need some form of liquid to braise the meat and ensure it remains moist and tender during the long cooking process. However, a slow cooker is a sealed environment, which means liquid does not evaporate significantly. Therefore, you don’t need to add nearly as much liquid as you might for a traditional stovetop braise or oven roast. In this carnitas recipe, the natural juices from the pork, combined with the added orange juice, onions, and jalapeno, provide ample liquid for cooking, creating a rich, flavorful broth that further tenderizes the meat.
• Can I brown the pork before slow cooking?
  While not strictly necessary for tender meat in a slow cooker, browning the pork shoulder on all sides in a hot pan before adding it to the crockpot can add an extra layer of deep, caramelized flavor (Maillard reaction). This step enhances the richness of the final dish but does add a little extra prep time.

Smart Substitutions for Your Carnitas Recipe

Even with the best recipes, sometimes you need to make a tweak or two. Here are some smart substitutions for your slow cooker carnitas:

Orange Juice Alternatives: The citrus juice is a key player in this carnitas recipe! Its acidity is crucial for breaking down the tough fibers in the pork, making it incredibly tender, while also adding a bright, sweet, and tangy dimension to the flavor. If fresh oranges aren’t available or you’re looking for a twist, you have a few excellent options: you can use fresh lime juice or lemon juice, or even a combination of various citrus juices for a more complex profile. Interestingly, some recipes even call for adding cola instead of juice, which introduces a different kind of sweetness and caramelization.

Pork Cut: While pork shoulder (butt) is highly recommended for its fat content and tenderness, a pork loin can be used for a leaner version. Be aware that pork loin will cook faster and may be less moist due to less fat, so monitor it closely.

Spices: If you don’t have Mexican oregano, regular dried oregano will work perfectly well. For an extra layer of smokiness, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the spice rub.

Heat Level: For those who prefer a spicier kick, feel free to leave some of the seeds and ribs in the jalapeno, or even add a second jalapeno or a serrano pepper for more heat.

Expert Tips and Tricks for Perfect Carnitas

To truly master this slow cooker carnitas recipe and ensure the best possible results, keep these expert tips and tricks in mind:

• Achieving Crispy Edges: One of the hallmarks of truly authentic carnitas is those irresistible crispy, slightly caramelized bits and edges. While the slow cooker excels at tenderness, it doesn’t create this crispness. To get those coveted crunchy textures, spread your shredded pork evenly on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle a little bit of the reserved cooking juices over the pork for added moisture and flavor. Then, place the sheet pan under a hot broiler for about 5-10 minutes, keeping a very close eye on it. Broiling quickly toasts the edges, giving you that perfect textural contrast.
• Storing Leftover Carnitas: Should you find yourself with any delicious leftover carnitas (a rare but welcome occurrence!), proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor. Store the shredded meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For food safety, make sure to place your leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
• Freezing for Future Meals: Carnitas are excellent for meal prep! Make a bigger batch than you need and freeze some of the cooked meat for another quick and easy meal down the line. Store the carnitas in an airtight container, such as a gallon-sized freezer bag or freezer-safe container, for up to 3 months. When reheating, the meat might dry out slightly; moisten the carnitas with a little bit of chicken broth or some of the reserved cooking juices to bring back that succulent texture.
• Don’t Skip the Orange Juice: The citrus isn’t just for flavor; the acidity actively works to break down the tough fibers in the pork, leading to incredibly tender results. It’s a non-negotiable ingredient for authentic taste and texture.

Instant Pot Carnitas: A Faster Alternative

If you’re short on time but still craving those delicious carnitas, your Instant Pot or pressure cooker can deliver fantastic results in a fraction of the time. While the slow cooker provides a gentle, long braise, the pressure cooker tenderizes the meat rapidly without compromising on flavor. Here’s how to adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot:

To prepare this recipe in the pressure cooker, begin by cutting the pork shoulder into 2 or 3-inch chunks. This helps the meat cook more evenly and quickly under pressure. Place these chunks directly into the Instant Pot insert. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this aromatic mixture thoroughly over all sides of the pork chunks, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor. Next, top the seasoned pork with the chopped onions, minced garlic, and the chopped jalapeno. Finally, squeeze the fresh juice of the oranges directly over the top of all the ingredients in the pot. You may add about ½ cup of water or chicken broth, though the pork and oranges will release plenty of liquid.

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on high heat for 60 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. This natural release time is important as it helps the meat remain tender and reabsorb juices. After 15 minutes, carefully quick release any remaining pressure before you cautiously open the Instant Pot lid. Remove the pork chunks, discard any excess fat or large fatty pieces, and shred the pork using two forks or shredder claws. You can then return the shredded pork to the flavorful juices in the Instant Pot to keep warm and absorb more liquid, or proceed to crisp it up under a broiler as described in our “Tips and Tricks” section.

Discover More Amazing Pork Recipes

My connection to pork recipes runs deep, largely influenced by my upbringing. My husband grew up on a farm where they raised hogs, and both of us enjoyed a variety of delicious pork dishes throughout our childhoods. One of my fondest childhood meal memories is my Mom’s incredible recipe for Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy. If you appreciate the versatility and flavor of pork, you’ll love these other fantastic recipes:

• Slow Cooker Cilantro Lime Pork (pictured above)
• Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork Sandwiches
• Fuggedabout it Pork Roast
• Hawaiian Pork Sliders
• Instant Pot Ham & Bean Soup

 

 

Don’t delay – plan to cook up some of these incredible Slow Cooker Carnitas tonight! You’ll be amazed by how easily this tender, flavorful Mexican pulled pork comes together and by its endless culinary possibilities. Use this versatile meat in so many different ways, from classic tacos and hearty burrito bowls to savory enchiladas and satisfying sandwiches. It’s a meal that promises deliciousness and convenience every time!

This recipe was originally posted on September 11, 2015. It has been updated to improve user experience and reshared on February 16, 2023.