Go Back
–+ servings
Carnitas Crockpot

Mouthwatering Carnitas Crockpot for Effortless Weeknight Meals

This Carnitas Crockpot recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy homemade Mexican comfort food.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 3 pounds Pork Shoulder Avoid using pork loin as it may yield a drier result.
  • 1 cup Orange Juice Freshly squeezed is best for optimal flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Lime Juice Replace with lemon juice if necessary.
  • 4 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh garlic delivers the best punch.
  • 1 large Chopped Onion Shallots can be used as an alternative.
For the Seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin Always use ground and adjust to your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Opt for Mexican oregano for more authenticity.
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder Customize based on your spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust measurement to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust measurement to taste.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Remember to discard before serving.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Carnitas Crockpot
  1. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder, then cut it into large chunks for even cooking.
  2. Place the pork chunks into the slow cooker with orange juice, lime juice, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, and bay leaves, then stir gently.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and shreds easily.
  4. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it, discarding any excess fat.
  5. For crispy pork, spread it on a baking sheet and broil for 5-8 minutes.
  6. Serve your carnitas with cooking liquid over the pork in corn tortillas or burrito bowls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal results, choose pork shoulder, and consider broiling for added texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!