Name: The Ultimate Carnitas Crockpot
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h 10 min
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3.5 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (boneless); 1 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup lime juice; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 large onion, sliced; 2 bay leaves; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil

There’s something magical about slow-cooked pork that melts into tender shreds, soaking up every bit of flavor from citrus and spice. Carnitas are the very definition of comfort food, bringing warmth and joy to any table. And when they come from a crockpot, you know you’re getting all that rich, savory goodness with none of the fuss.

This carnitas crockpot recipe is a weeknight dream and a weekend crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re stuffing tacos, piling on nachos, or simply spooning it over rice, this recipe transforms pork shoulder into golden, juicy bites with crispy edges that feel like they came straight from your favorite taquería.

Why You’ll Love This Carnitas Crockpot

It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal. With minimal prep and maximum reward, you can toss everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic. The result is rich, fall-apart pork that works beautifully in tacos, burrito bowls, salads, or even sliders.

Plus, the broiling step at the end adds irresistible crispy edges without deep frying. It’s a hands-off way to get that authentic carnitas texture while keeping cleanup easy.

What Cut of Pork Is Best for Carnitas?

You’ll want to use pork shoulder, also known as pork butt or Boston butt. This cut is marbled with fat, making it ideal for slow cooking. It breaks down into tender, juicy meat that stays flavorful and moist. Boneless is easiest to shred, but bone-in works if that’s what you have — just remove the bone before crisping.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Carnitas Crockpot

The key to incredible carnitas lies in a simple blend of seasoning and citrus. Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in balancing richness, brightness, and warmth.

Pork shoulder (boneless): The star of the show, its marbling ensures tender, juicy results after hours in the slow cooker.
Orange juice: Adds a citrusy sweetness that tenderizes the pork and balances the savory flavors.
Lime juice: Brings sharp acidity that brightens up the dish.
Garlic cloves: Infuses the meat with bold, savory flavor.
Onion: Provides sweetness and depth as it cooks down.
Bay leaves: Subtly fragrant and earthy, they round out the flavor profile.
Cumin: A must for warm, earthy notes.
Oregano: Offers a hint of herbal brightness.
Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Olive oil: Helps the pork crisp beautifully under the broiler.

How To Make the Ultimate Carnitas Crockpot

Step 1: Season the Pork

Pat your pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. Rub it all over the surface so every bite will be flavorful.

Step 2: Load the Crockpot

Place the pork in the slow cooker. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, orange juice, and lime juice. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 5 to 6 hours, until the pork easily shreds with a fork.

Step 3: Shred the Pork

Remove the pork and transfer it to a large cutting board or tray. Shred it using two forks, discarding any excess fat or bone. At this stage, the meat should be incredibly tender and aromatic.

Step 4: Crisp Under the Broiler

Preheat your oven to broil. Spread the shredded pork on a foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and spoon some of the juices from the crockpot over it. Broil for 4 to 6 minutes until the edges are brown and crispy. Flip and broil a few more minutes to crisp the other side.

How to Serve and Store Carnitas Crockpot

This recipe makes enough to feed 6 to 8 people, depending on portion sizes. It’s incredibly versatile, so serve it however you like: tacos with fresh toppings, burrito bowls with rice and beans, or even as a carnitas-stuffed baked potato.

To store, let leftovers cool completely and transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet to keep those crispy bits intact.

What to Serve With Carnitas Crockpot?

Fresh Salsa or Pico de Gallo

A bright tomato-based salsa adds freshness and a bit of zing.

Mexican Street Corn

Sweet corn slathered in creamy sauce and cheese is a favorite companion.

Cilantro Lime Rice

The citrusy rice balances the rich carnitas beautifully.

Guacamole

Creamy avocado helps cool down the bold flavors.

Refried Beans

A hearty and traditional pairing that brings comfort to every bite.

Pickled Red Onions

For a pop of acidity that cuts through the richness.

Corn Tortillas

To make classic tacos that are soft, warm, and satisfying.

Cabbage Slaw

Adds crunch and freshness for a more balanced plate.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Bold Flavors?

If you love these carnitas, you’ll want to try these other satisfying favorites from the site:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how you served your carnitas! Did you go the taco route or try something more creative like carnitas pizza?

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and wholesome dinner ideas on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover new favorites for your weekly meal plan.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Carnitas Crockpot is everything you want in a slow-cooked dish: easy, rich in flavor, and endlessly customizable. With just a few ingredients and some time, you can bring the taste of traditional Mexican carnitas right into your kitchen, all while letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting.