Juicy & Crispy Carnitas Crockpot Recipe : Authentic Mexican Pulled Pork

Looking for an irresistibly tender, flavor-packed, and stress-free meal? This Carnitas Crockpot recipe is everything you want in a Mexican-inspired dinner—easy to prep, slow-cooked to juicy perfection, and finished with golden crispy edges that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

This authentic slow cooker carnitas recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taco nights, family gatherings, and meal prep. If you love making tacos in the slow cooker, this dish will become a regular in your rotation. Plus, it pairs beautifully with classic sides like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers or Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs for an elevated dinner spread.

Let’s dive into what makes these Crockpot Carnitas unforgettable.

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Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Carnitas

There are countless reasons why this Carnitas Crockpot recipe deserves a spot in your weekly meal plan:

• Effortless prep: Just season, set, and forget!
• Incredibly juicy and flavorful: A citrusy, spiced braising liquid infuses the pork with rich Mexican flavor.
• Perfectly crispy edges: After slow cooking, the pork is broiled or pan-seared for authentic texture.
• Versatile: Use it in tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, salads, or eat it straight from the pan!
• Meal-prep friendly: Makes a large batch and stores well for busy days.

This recipe is also a perfect fit for those following carnivore crock pot recipes, or those looking for Mexican Crock Pot recipes that never disappoint.

Ingredients for Authentic Crockpot Carnitas

This recipe sticks to traditional Mexican carnitas flavor, using simple pantry staples with bold impact:

• 4 lb (2 kg) pork shoulder / pork butt, skinless, boneless, cut into large chunks
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jalapeño, deseeded and chopped
• 1 orange, cut in half (use both juice and skin)
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth

For serving:

• Corn tortillas, chopped onions, cilantro, lime wedges

Optional toppings: avocado slices, salsa, shredded cheese, or pickled onions.

Looking for side dish ideas? Try these Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini or Scalloped Potatoes to complete your plate.

Kitchen Tools & Equipment You’ll Need

Make sure your kitchen is ready with the following essentials:

• Slow cooker / Crockpot (6-quart or larger)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs or forks (for shredding)
• Sheet pan or large skillet (for crisping)
• Aluminum foil or parchment (if broiling)

How to Make Carnitas Crockpot Style (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Cut your pork shoulder into large chunks (3–4 inches). Season all sides generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin.

Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot
Place the chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the seasoned pork on top. Squeeze in the juice of the orange and lime, then toss in the orange halves. Pour the chicken broth over everything.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 6 hours, until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.

Step 4: Shred the Pork
Remove the pork and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred using two forks and discard large chunks of fat if desired. Return the shredded meat to the juices in the slow cooker to soak up flavor.

Step 5: Crisp It Up!
Here’s the magic step: transfer shredded pork to a sheet pan and broil for 5–10 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the edges. You can also pan-fry it in batches in a hot skillet.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot in warm tortillas with toppings of your choice. Add a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.

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How to Get Crispy Edges (The Secret Step)

The best Crockpot Carnitas have that irresistible contrast between juicy insides and crisp, caramelized edges. Here’s how to do it right:

• Use a hot oven or skillet: Broil shredded pork on high heat, turning once, or sear in a cast iron pan.
• Drizzle with pan juices: Before broiling, spoon some reserved cooking liquid over the meat for more flavor and moisture.
• Don’t crowd the pan: Crisp in batches if needed to avoid steaming the meat.

Want to try another high-protein dish with crispy textures? Check out this High-Protein Steak and Shrimp Stir Fry.

Carnitas Crockpot Tips for the Best Flavor & Texture

• Use pork shoulder or pork butt: These cuts are ideal for slow cooking and shredding.
• Don’t skip the orange: The citrus balances the richness of the meat and adds authentic flavor.
• Let the pork rest: This helps redistribute the juices before shredding.
• Crisp only what you’ll eat: Store leftovers un-crisped for best results when reheating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Crockpot Carnitas

• Using lean cuts like pork loin – They will dry out and lack flavor.
• Skipping the crisping step – Essential for that authentic texture.
• Overcrowding during crisping – Will steam rather than caramelize.
• Forgetting to season properly – Bold spices are the heart of carnitas.

Serving Ideas: Tacos, Burritos, and More

Carnitas are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes beyond tacos:

• Tacos: Classic street-style with onions and cilantro.
• Burritos: Wrap in a large tortilla with rice, beans, and cheese.
• Bowls: Serve over rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Nachos: Layer with chips, cheese, and salsa.
• Salads: Top a bed of greens with carnitas and avocado.

You can also use this filling for Halloween-themed bites like Mini Halloween Pizzas or Crescent Roll Mummy Hot Dogs for fun family meals.

What to Serve with Carnitas Crockpot Tacos

Round out your meal with one or more of these non-alcoholic sides and drinks:

• Pumpkin Chicken Chili
• Cucumber Dill Salad
• Lavender Lemonade
• Pumpkin Fluff Dip for a sweet finish

These ideas help turn your Carnitas Crockpot Tacos into a complete, well-rounded meal.

Best Carnitas Taco Toppings & Tortilla Tips

To take your tacos to the next level, consider these topping combinations:

• Traditional: Diced onion, cilantro, lime wedge
• Fresh: Sliced avocado, pico de gallo
• Creamy: Sour cream, chipotle mayo
• Crunchy: Shredded cabbage, radishes

Tortilla Tips:

• Use corn tortillas for a traditional vibe
• Warm tortillas on a skillet before serving
• Double them up to prevent tearing

Leftovers: How to Store & Reheat Crockpot Carnitas

This recipe yields enough for several meals, and it stores like a dream:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze shredded pork and juices in portions for up to 3 months
• Reheating: Pan-fry or broil for best texture; avoid microwaving if possible

Pro tip: Use leftovers for breakfast with eggs or in Loaded Breakfast Hash.

Variations for Different Diets: Carnivore, Keto & More

This recipe can be easily adapted to fit various diets:

• Carnivore: Skip toppings and tortillas—just crispy pork!
• Keto/Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps
• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas

You can even pair it with Vegetarian Pasta Primavera for a mixed-diet family meal.

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Crockpot Carnitas FAQs

Can I make this in the oven instead of a Crockpot?
Yes, use a Dutch oven and cook low and slow at 300°F (150°C) for about 3 hours.

What’s the best cut of pork to use?
Pork shoulder or Boston butt—avoid lean cuts.

Do I need to add orange juice?
Yes, the citrus balances the richness and enhances flavor.

Can I make it spicy?
Add more jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

How can I use leftovers differently?
Make carnitas quesadillas, sliders, pizza, or breakfast hash.

Final Thoughts on Making Carnitas Crockpot-Style at Home

When it comes to comfort food that satisfies a crowd and doesn’t stress the cook, Carnitas Crockpot is a top contender. Juicy, flavorful, and topped with golden crispy bits, it checks every box. Whether you’re preparing a taco bar for game night or batch cooking for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Want even more easy, crowd-pleasing meals? Explore other reader favorites like Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir Fry or Keto Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs for snacks.

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