Easy Crockpot Carnitas are the perfect centerpiece for a flavorful meal, and the right sides can elevate the experience even further. These accompaniments bring freshness, texture, and balance.
Soft corn tortillas are a must, providing the ideal base for your carnitas. Fresh pico de gallo, with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime, adds a zesty crunch to each bite.
Guacamole adds creamy richness, while pickled red onions offer a tangy contrast. Mexican rice and beans—whether black or refried—bring extra flavor and protein, rounding out this delicious meal. Now, let’s dive into the heart of the dish—those savory carnitas!
I remember the first time I made Easy Crockpot Carnitas. The sun had just begun to set, and I could already hear the laughter of friends arriving at my door. I wanted a dish that would keep everyone happy and satisfied.
After a bit of tinkering with various recipes, I settled on a simple crockpot dish that lets time do the hard work for me.
The outcome?
Fall-apart tender pork packed with flavor that’s just begging to be piled high on some warm tortillas. Simple, fulfilling, and perfect for sharing—what more could you want?
What is Easy Crockpot Carnitas?
Carnitas, which translates to “little meats” in Spanish, are a beloved component of Mexican cuisine. Traditionally, this dish is made by braising pork until it’s incredibly tender. With Easy Crockpot Carnitas, we harness the magic of the slow cooker, making the process even simpler.
You toss in the ingredients, set it, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you kick back and relax. The result? Tender, juicy pork that’s flavorful enough to stand alone but can shine with an array of toppings.
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How Does It Taste Like?
When you take that first bite of the Easy Crockpot Carnitas, you’re met with a perfect blend of spices and the rich flavor of pork. The texture is a delightful contrast; it’s juicy yet crispy on the outside.
There’s a warmth that comes from the spices—cumin, paprika, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar—giving each bite a complexity that dances on your palate. Pair it with fresh zesty toppings, and you’ve got a symphony of flavors in your mouth.
Why You’ll Love This?
There are countless reasons to love this dish, and let me share a few. First, the simplicity is unmatched. It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup practically a breeze. Second, it’s incredibly customizable.
Whether you want to keep it traditional or throw in your flair with toppings, the possibilities are boundless. Lastly, it’s definitely a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for parties, family dinners, or even a quiet night in. Trust me; you won’t have leftovers for long!
Ingredients
Let’s gather our ingredients for this mouthwatering creation:
- 1/2 cup fire-roasted tomato salsa
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
- 1 tablespoon chipotle-style hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked chili powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Juice from 2 fresh limes
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 5 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 12 oz. light Mexican beer
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4–5 lbs. boneless pork shoulder roast
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s essential to have everything ready before you dive into the cooking process. Trust me; this will save you time and stress!
Step 2: Prepare the Pork
Rinse the pork shoulder under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps it sear better. Then, cut it into roughly large chunks. This is not an exact science—just make sure they are somewhat uniform.
Step 3: Season the Pork
In a shallow bowl, combine the salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cinnamon. Rub this spice mix generously over the pork chunks. Don’t be shy here; you want every piece to be coated with that delicious goodness.
Step 4: Sauté (Optional)
If you have a few extra minutes, consider sautéing the pork in a skillet until browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavors but isn’t mandatory. Up to you!
Step 5: Assemble in the Crockpot
Place the seasoned pork into your crockpot. Pour in the fire-roasted salsa, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, chipotle-hot sauce, brown sugar, and oregano over the top. Trust the process; it’ll come together beautifully!
Step 6: Add the Beer
Finally, pour in the beer. This ingredient brings so much flavor and helps tenderize the pork as it cooks.
Step 7: Set and Forget
Put the lid on your crockpot and cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The pork should be incredibly tender by the end.
Step 8: Shred and Crisp
Once cooking is done, shred the pork using two forks. Place the shredded pork on a baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. You can drizzle with the cooking juices and broil it for 5-10 minutes if you like those crispy bits.
Tips On Making Easy Crockpot Carnitas
Here are some handy tips for getting the most out of your carnitas:
- Select Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly squeezed citrus make a noticeable difference compared to dried counterparts.
- Don’t Rush Cooking Time: The low-and-slow method is key to achieving that tender meat, so resist the urge to rush.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your carnitas and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Save the Juices: The cooking juices are flavor-packed! Use them to enhance your carnitas or as a base for another dish.
Nutrition Information
Easy Crockpot Carnitas Recipe Nutrition Facts
How Do You Store This Easy Crockpot Carnitas?
Storing leftovers is straightforward. Place any unused pork in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It should last for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Just make sure to wrap it tightly; it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Easy Crockpot Carnitas?
If you’re looking to mix things up or you can’t find pork shoulder, consider these alternatives:
- Beef Chuck Roast: A great substitute, yielding a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- Chicken Thighs: For a lighter version, chicken thighs work beautifully and stay juicy.
- Turkey Breast: A leaner option, turkey will work, but may require a little more seasoning to punch up the flavor.
- Jackfruit: For a plant-based option, young jackfruit can mimic the texture of pulled pork when cooked and seasoned properly.
- Pork Tenderloin: If you’re in a rush, this lean cut will cook faster but lacks some of the richness from the shoulder.
Easy Crockpot Carnitas Recipe
Equipment
- Crockpot
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fire-roasted tomato salsa
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
- 1 tablespoon chipotle-style hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked chili powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Juice from 2 fresh limes
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 5 fresh garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 12 oz. light Mexican beer
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 –5 lbs. boneless pork shoulder roast
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s essential to have everything ready before you dive into the cooking process. Trust me; this will save you time and stress!
Step 2: Prepare the Pork
- Rinse the pork shoulder under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps it sear better. Then, cut it into roughly large chunks. This is not an exact science—just make sure they are somewhat uniform.
Step 3: Season the Pork
- In a shallow bowl, combine the salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cinnamon. Rub this spice mix generously over the pork chunks. Don’t be shy here; you want every piece to be coated with that delicious goodness.
Step 4: Sauté (Optional)
- If you have a few extra minutes, consider sautéing the pork in a skillet until browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavors but isn’t mandatory. Up to you!
Step 5: Assemble in the Crockpot
- Place the seasoned pork into your crockpot. Pour in the fire-roasted salsa, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, chipotle-hot sauce, brown sugar, and oregano over the top. Trust the process; it’ll come together beautifully!
Step 6: Add the Beer
- Finally, pour in the beer. This ingredient brings so much flavor and helps tenderize the pork as it cooks.
Step 7: Set and Forget
- Put the lid on your crockpot and cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The pork should be incredibly tender by the end.
Step 8: Shred and Crisp
- Once cooking is done, shred the pork using two forks. Place the shredded pork on a baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. You can drizzle with the cooking juices and broil it for 5-10 minutes if you like those crispy bits.
Notes
- Select Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly squeezed citrus make a noticeable difference compared to dried counterparts.
- Don’t Rush Cooking Time: The low-and-slow method is key to achieving that tender meat, so resist the urge to rush.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your carnitas and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Save the Juices: The cooking juices are flavor-packed! Use them to enhance your carnitas or as a base for another dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! While pork shoulder is traditional for carnitas, you can use chicken, beef, or even plant-based alternatives like jackfruit. Just adjust cooking times and seasoning controls as needed.
2. How do I achieve crispy carnitas?
If you love crispy edges, shred the meat after cooking and spread it out on a baking sheet. Broil for a few minutes until it’s crispy. This step adds a delightful texture contrast.
3. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover carnitas are extremely versatile. Use them for tacos, burritos, salads, or even as a filling for sandwiches. They freeze well, too!
4. How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preferences. The chipotle hot sauce and smoked chili powder provide heat, but feel free to reduce or substitute with milder options.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the carnitas a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge after cooking and reheat before serving. The flavors develop beautifully overnight.
6. What toppings do you recommend?
Experiment! Fresh cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, and pickled onions are fantastic options. Feel free to get creative with your favorites.
Conclusion
Easy Crockpot Carnitas is not just a meal; it’s an experience. From the simplicity of the preparation to the burst of flavors with every bite, it’s bound to win over your family and friends.
This dish embodies comfort and joy, perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in. So next time you’re thinking about dinner, remember this carnitas recipe and don’t hesitate to dive in.
The slow cooker does the work while you kick back, sip a drink, and smile knowing you’ve got an amazing meal coming your way. Get those tortillas ready, because it’s time to feast!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more