Mexican Crockpot Carnitas is a dish that brings the authentic flavors of Mexico into your home with ease. Carnitas, meaning “little meats” in Spanish, are traditionally slow-cooked, tender pork that is seasoned with aromatic spices and citrus, then shredded and crisped to perfection. This iconic dish hails from Michoacán, Mexico, where it’s often cooked in a large copper pot over an open flame. While this traditional method is delicious, using a crockpot allows for a simpler, hands-off approach that delivers equally tender and flavorful results.

Perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls, or as a main dish on its own, Crockpot Carnitas are versatile, crowd-pleasing, and incredibly easy to make. This recipe will guide you step-by-step through preparing juicy, melt-in-your-mouth pork with a crispy caramelized exterior. Whether for a festive gathering or an easy weeknight dinner, this dish will become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Flavors: A blend of spices, garlic, and citrus ensures every bite is bursting with bold Mexican flavors.
Effortless Preparation: The crockpot does the heavy lifting, requiring minimal hands-on time.
Versatile Dish: Use the carnitas in tacos, burritos, salads, or as a protein-packed topping for nachos.
Meal Prep Friendly: Carnitas can be made ahead and reheated, making them perfect for busy schedules.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level or citrus to suit your taste, and pair with your favorite toppings for endless possibilities.

Preparation Time and Yield

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours on low (or 4 hours on high)
Total time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings (approximately 4 pounds of shredded pork)
Serving size: 1 cup

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 275 kcal
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Protein: 25 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 1 g

Ingredients

For the Carnitas:

4 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt), boneless or bone-in
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp ground cumin
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 medium onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 oranges, juiced (reserve the spent halves)
2 limes, juiced (reserve the spent halves)
1/2 cup chicken broth

For Crisping:

2 tbsp olive oil (or reserved pork drippings)

For Serving:

Warm corn or flour tortillas
Diced onion
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges
Salsa or hot sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the pork with olive oil, then generously season all sides with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and oregano. Place the pork in the crockpot.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Citrus
Scatter the onion quarters and minced garlic around the pork. Pour the freshly squeezed orange and lime juices over the pork, adding the spent halves to the crockpot for extra flavor. Pour in the chicken broth.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 4: Shred the Pork
Remove the pork from the crockpot and place it on a large cutting board or platter. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess fat.

Step 5: Reduce the Cooking Liquid
Strain the cooking liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes to concentrate the flavors. Set aside for serving or crisping the pork.

Step 6: Crisp the Carnitas
Heat olive oil or pork drippings in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shredded pork in batches, spreading it in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges become crispy. Drizzle a spoonful of the reduced cooking liquid over the pork for added flavor and moisture.

Step 7: Serve
Transfer the crispy carnitas to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with warm tortillas, diced onion, lime wedges, and your favorite toppings.

Ingredient Background

Pork Shoulder: This well-marbled cut is ideal for slow cooking, yielding tender, juicy meat that shreds effortlessly.
Citrus: Orange and lime juices brighten the flavors and add subtle sweetness and acidity to the dish.
Spices: A blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano creates the savory, smoky flavor profile characteristic of carnitas.
Garlic and Onion: These aromatics infuse the pork with depth and richness during cooking.
Chicken Broth: Keeps the pork moist and adds a savory base to the cooking liquid.

Technique Tips

Don’t Skip Browning: Crisping the pork in a skillet adds texture and intensifies the flavor, making the carnitas irresistible.
Reduce the Liquid: Simmering the cooking juices concentrates their flavor, turning them into a delicious sauce for drizzling.
Use Fresh Citrus: Freshly squeezed orange and lime juices are essential for achieving the best flavor.
Shred While Warm: Shredding the pork while it’s still warm makes it easier to pull apart.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Carnitas Bowls: Serve the shredded pork over a bed of rice or quinoa with black beans, salsa, and guacamole.
Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with carnitas, cheese, jalapeños, and pico de gallo for an indulgent appetizer.
Salads: Use carnitas as a protein topping for a fresh green salad with avocado and a lime vinaigrette.
Breakfast Tacos: Pair carnitas with scrambled eggs, cheese, and salsa for a hearty morning meal.
Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with carnitas, rice, and cheese, then bake until tender.

Additional Tips for Success

Choose the Right Pork: Bone-in pork shoulder adds extra flavor, but boneless works just as well.
Adjust Seasonings: Customize the spice level by adding more chili powder or cayenne.
Make Ahead: Cook the pork the day before and crisp it just before serving for easy meal prep.
Keep Warm: If serving for a crowd, keep the carnitas warm in a low oven (200°F) until ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Carnitas: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the crockpot for a spicy kick.
Pineapple Carnitas: Replace the orange juice with pineapple juice for a sweet and tangy twist.
Beef Carnitas: Use a beef chuck roast instead of pork for a unique variation.
Carnitas Tostadas: Serve the crispy pork on tostadas with refried beans and toppings.
Vegan Carnitas: Substitute jackfruit or mushrooms for pork and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze shredded pork in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of the reserved cooking liquid to keep the pork moist.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Lean Cuts: Use pork loin for a leaner option, though it may not be as tender.
Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the added salt.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your tortillas and seasonings are gluten-free.
Whole-Wheat Tortillas: Swap corn tortillas for whole-wheat to increase fiber content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Taco Bar: Set up a DIY taco bar with carnitas, tortillas, and a variety of toppings.
Game Day Feast: Pair carnitas with chips, guacamole, and margaritas for a festive spread.
Family Dinner: Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, and a simple green salad.
Potluck Party: Bring the shredded pork in a slow cooker to keep it warm and let guests assemble their own plates.

Special Equipment

Crockpot: A 6-quart slow cooker is perfect for this recipe.
Large Skillet: Essential for crisping the shredded pork.
Citrus Juicer: Handy for extracting maximum juice from the oranges and limes.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the pork during crisping and handling tortillas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder?
Yes, but pork loin is leaner and may not be as tender.
Can I make this without a crockpot?
Yes, cook the pork in a Dutch oven at 300°F for 3-4 hours until tender.
What can I use instead of orange juice?
Pineapple or grapefruit juice are great substitutes.
Can I skip crisping the pork?
While not essential, crisping adds a delicious texture and flavor.
What toppings go well with carnitas?
Diced onions, cilantro, salsa, guacamole, and crumbled queso fresco are classic choices.
How do I keep carnitas warm for serving?
Use a low oven (200°F) or a slow cooker set to “warm.”
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or extra chili powder.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Mexican Crockpot Carnitas is the perfect marriage of ease and authenticity, delivering tender, flavorful pork with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a taco night, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a taste of Mexico, this dish is sure to impress. Its versatility and rich, citrusy flavor make it a favorite for any occasion. Grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is memorable!

Mexican Crockpot Carnitas

Author: Sophia
Total Time: 8 hours on low (or 4 hours on high)
Yield: 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Instructions