Carnitas Crockpot has become a staple in my kitchen for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. This Ultimate Carnitas Crockpot recipe promises to wow your taste buds with juicy, tender pork infused with citrus and spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or meal prep, this dish is effortlessly made in your slow cooker. It’s the go-to easy carnitas recipe that will bring joy to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Carnitas Crockpot

This recipe for carnitas in a slow cooker offers an abundance of benefits. Firstly, it’s a fantastic easy carnitas recipe that requires minimal effort. You simply season the meat and let the slow cooker do the work! Secondly, the resulting pork is tender and flavorful, making it ideal for tacos, burritos, or just enjoying on its own. Another benefit is the versatility of toppings—think fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for that authentic taste. Additionally, using a crockpot for carnitas means you can set it and forget it, making it a perfect choice for busy families. Lastly, it’s a great option for meal prep, allowing you to have delicious meals ready for the week ahead.

Ingredients for Carnitas Crockpot

Gather these items:

3–4 pounds boneless pork shoulder
3/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons lime juice
5 garlic cloves, smashed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (for crisping)

How to Make Carnitas Crockpot Step-by-Step

Step 1: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into 3–4 inch chunks.
Step 2: Season the pork with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder.
Step 3: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bay leaves to the crockpot.
Step 4: Pour in the orange juice and lime juice over the pork.
Step 5: Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 5–6 hours.
Step 6: Remove the pork and shred it with forks, discarding any large fat pieces.
Step 7: Heat olive oil in a skillet and crisp the shredded pork in batches, adding some cooking liquid.
Step 8: Serve hot with onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Carnitas Crockpot

Keep these in mind:

For the best spices for crockpot carnitas, don’t skimp on the cumin and oregano—these are essential for authentic flavor.
Opt for a good quality pork shoulder for tender carnitas slow cooker results.
After shredding the pork, crisp it up in a skillet for that delicious texture.
Feel free to experiment with different citrus juices, like grapefruit, for a unique twist.

Best Ways to Serve Carnitas Crockpot

There are endless ways to enjoy your flavorful carnitas using the crockpot. One fantastic option is to serve them in warm tortillas, topped with onions and cilantro—classic street taco style. You can also whip up a hearty burrito with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings. For a lighter option, try a carnitas salad with fresh greens and avocado. The possibilities are endless!

How to Store and Reheat Carnitas Crockpot

To store your homemade carnitas using a crockpot, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should last for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cooking liquid to keep them moist. This makes it easy to enjoy your delicious meal prep throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Carnitas Crockpot

What’s the secret to perfect Carnitas Crockpot?

The secret lies in the slow cooking process that allows the pork to become incredibly tender and flavorful. Using a combination of spices and citrus enhances the taste, creating that authentic carnitas flavor you crave!

Can I make Carnitas Crockpot ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the carnitas a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve for a quick and satisfying meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Carnitas Crockpot?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure that you don’t rush the cooking time. Cook on LOW for best results, and don’t skip the crisping step after shredding, which adds texture and flavor.

Variations of Carnitas Crockpot You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider using different cuts of meat like beef or chicken for a new flavor experience. You can also try adding different spices or even chipotle peppers for a smoky twist. For a lighter version, use pork tenderloin instead of shoulder, keeping the recipe gluten-free and delicious!

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Chocolate Eclair Cake or Creamy Tuscan Scallops. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit our Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe for a quick and satisfying meal.

For additional information on the health benefits of pork, you can refer to this study that discusses the nutritional value of pork.