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Easy Crockpot Carnitas Recipe

Easy Crockpot Carnitas Recipe


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4.8 from 28 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

Learn how to make incredibly flavorful and tender Easy Crockpot Carnitas with this simple recipe. Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or salads, these Mexican-style shredded pork carnitas are a family favorite!


Ingredients

Scale

Pork Carnitas:

  • 34 lb pork shoulder (boneless, cut into large chunks)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • juice of 2 oranges
  • juice of 2 limes
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 small onion (quartered)
  • 4 cloves garlic (smashed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear pork chunks on all sides until browned.
  3. Slow Cook: Transfer pork to the crockpot. Add orange juice, lime juice, chicken broth, onion, and garlic. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
  4. Shred and Crisp: Remove pork, shred, and broil for crispy edges if desired. Return to juices before serving.

Notes

  • Serve with tortillas, rice bowls, or salads.
  • Leftovers freeze well for future meals.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onion, and lime wedges.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 440mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg