Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

This slow cooker carnitas recipe is an easy way to create tender juicy and flavorful pork at home with almost no fuss. Whether you pile it into tacos or brighten up your favorite salad these carnitas add a special touch to any meal and impress every time.

When I served this to friends for a Friday taco night everyone wanted the recipe and could not believe how simple it was The crispy finish always gets rave reviews

Ingredients

• Pork tenderloin or boneless pork loin: very lean and shreds easily look for pink meat with little excess fat for juicy results
• Dried oregano: brings an herby earthiness try to find Mexican oregano for a rich flavor
• Ground cumin: adds a warm smoky undertone buy whole seeds and grind for the freshest flavor
• Avocado oil or olive oil: helps the spices adhere to the pork and brings healthy fats use a high quality extra virgin oil if possible
• Onion: infuses the pork with sweetness and depth yellow or white onions both work
• Garlic: fresh minced garlic gives real punch select firm unblemished cloves
• Jalapeño: offers a mild heat keep the seeds for extra spice or remove for milder taste look for glossy green peppers with no soft spots
• Salt: enhances every flavor use kosher or sea salt for best results
• Fresh lime juice: gives brightness and balances the earthy pork use juicy limes that feel heavy for their size
• Fresh navel orange juice: sweetens and tenderizes the meat pick an orange with taut skin and fragrant aroma
• Extra avocado oil for crisping the pork: gives that irresistible crispy edge look for cold pressed oil for the purest flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Spice Rub:

Combine dried oregano ground cumin and avocado oil in a small bowl Whisk everything until thoroughly blended

Prepare the Pork:

Set the pork tenderloin or loin on a clean cutting board Pat it very dry using paper towels this helps the rub stick and browns the meat better

Season the Pork:

Massage the spice rub over every inch of the pork making sure it is evenly covered This is crucial for maximum flavor

Build the Slow Cooker Base:

Chop the onion mince the garlic and dice the jalapeño then add them to the slow cooker with the pork Sprinkle with salt then pour in fresh lime juice and orange juice These juices work together to brighten and tenderize the pork

Slow Cook the Pork:

Cover with the slow cooker lid Set on high for four to six hours or low for six to eight hours Occasionally check and when the internal temperature reaches one hundred ninety five degrees Fahrenheit and the pork shreds easily with a fork it is done

Shred the Meat:

Use two forks to pull the pork into tender shreds right in the slow cooker If you prefer remove the pork to a board but save all those amazing juices

Crisp the Carnitas:

Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of avocado oil Once hot add just enough shredded pork to cover the skillet in a single layer Do not overcrowd Spoon a little cooking juice over the pork and let it cook until the bottom is browned and crisp Flip to brown the other side briefly

Finish and Serve:

Transfer the crispy carnitas to a bowl Repeat until all pork is crisped Drizzle with extra juice and serve hot in your favorite dishes

Save

The orange juice is my favorite ingredient because it gives the pork a gentle sweetness and makes it extra tender One time my family piled this pork into fresh tortillas on the porch and everyone kept reaching for seconds—there were no leftovers

Storage Tips

Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge with some of the cooking juices on top to keep everything moist These leftovers are even better the next day Just reheat gently in a skillet or microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find pork tenderloin boneless pork loin works nearly as well Swap avocado oil for olive oil or another neutral oil If you want more heat leave the jalapeño seeds in or add a second pepper

Serving Suggestions

Carnitas are delicious in warm tortillas with sliced avocado chopped cilantro and quick pickled red onions Try them in burrito bowls on top of roasted vegetables or even tossed into scrambled eggs the next morning

Cultural Context

Carnitas are a beloved dish from the Mexican state of Michoacán The traditional method simmers pork in lard but this slow cooker version lightens the process and still captures the depth of flavor I admire how this recipe brings those rich tastes to any home kitchen

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of pork should I use?

Pork tenderloin or boneless pork loin both work well. Choose a 2-pound cut for best texture and moistness.

→ Can I make the dish ahead of time?

Yes, shred and store the pork with juices in the fridge. Sear portions just before serving for maximum crispiness.

→ How do I get crispy edges on the meat?

After shredding, brown small batches in a hot skillet with a little oil and some of the cooking juices for caramelized edges.

→ Are the carnitas spicy?

Mild heat comes from the jalapeño, but you can adjust heat by removing or keeping seeds, or omitting the pepper altogether.

→ What can I serve with slow cooked pork?

Use for tacos, burritos, salads, chilaquiles, rice bowls, or serve with tortillas and toppings like onions and cilantro.