There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of slow-cooked pork wafting through the house, especially when it’s Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas. Picture this: the pork shoulder braising in a symphony of spices and zesty citrus, transforming into tender, juicy goodness that’s simply irresistible. After surrendering to the gentle heat of the slow cooker for hours, a quick broil elevates the dish with the perfect crispy edges that everyone loves.
Whether you’re prepping for a cozy taco night with friends or looking to impress family with minimal effort, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s gluten-free, bursting with authentic Mexican flavors, and best of all, it simplifies your cooking routine without sacrificing taste. Get ready to bring the fiesta to your kitchen with this easy-to-follow guide to making Carnitas that not only delight the palate but also become a crowd favorite!
Why will you love Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas?
Mouthwatering Aroma: Your kitchen will be filled with the delectable scents of spices and citrus, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep and the slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you’ll save time while enjoying hearty flavors.
Perfectly Crispy Finish: A quick broil after slow cooking gives you that irresistible crispy edge everyone craves.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for taco nights or casual gatherings, this dish will impress friends and family alike.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve in warm tortillas or as part of a comforting meal; the options are endless! If you’re keen to explore even more delicious slow cooker meals, check out our ultimate slow cooker recipes.
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas Ingredients
For the Carnitas
- Pork Shoulder – The star of the dish, bringing unmatched flavor and tenderness; you can also use pork butt or loin if needed.
- Cumin – An essential spice for that authentic carnitas flavor; don’t substitute as its warmth is irreplaceable.
- Coriander – Adds a refreshing citrus note; feel free to omit if you don’t have it on hand.
- Oregano – Elevates the herbaceous notes; dried oregano works best, but fresh is a lovely option.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the rich flavor; use the freshest you can find!
- Onion – Provides a savory base; shallots can be substituted if you’re looking for a milder taste.
- Orange Juice – Gives acidity and sweetness to the carnitas; always opt for freshly squeezed, but lime juice can lend a delightful twist.
- Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and depth; make sure it’s gluten-free if that’s a concern.
For Serving
- Tortillas – Warm tortillas are perfect for wrapping those scrumptious carnitas.
- Toppings – Consider fresh chopped onions, cilantro, creamy avocado, or a spicy salsa to complete your taco feast.
These Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas are not just a meal; they’re an invitation to share stories and create memories around the table. Enjoy every bite!
How to Make Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
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Sear the Pork: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the pork pieces on all sides for about 4-5 minutes until they are nicely browned. This step enhances the flavor, creating a rich base.
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Deglaze the Skillet: Pour in chicken broth to deglaze your skillet, scraping up those delicious caramelized bits. This liquid adds depth and flavor, so transfer it into your slow cooker.
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Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Combine the seared pork, cumin, coriander, oregano, minced garlic, sliced onion, and orange juice in the slow cooker. Mix well to allow all the spices to coat the meat.
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Slow Cook: Set your slow cooker on low and cook the mixture for 8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
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Shred and Broil: After cooking, take the pork out and shred it with two forks. Spread the shredded meat evenly on a baking sheet, then broil it for 5-7 minutes in the oven until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas Variations
Feel free to get creative with these mouthwatering ideas to personalize your carnitas experience!
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Beef Option: Swap pork for beef chuck for a different but equally delicious flavor profile. Give it a try; you’ll be surprised at how tasty it can be!
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Chicken Delight: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of pork for a lighter twist. The chicken will soak up the flavors beautifully!
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Vegetarian Twist: For a meatless option, try using jackfruit instead of pork. It mimics the texture and takes on flavors like a charm!
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the slow cooker for a spicy punch that enhances the dish’s complexity and warmth.
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Citrus Variations: Experiment with grapefruit or lime juice instead of orange juice to add a unique tangy twist to your carnitas. Each brings a special zest!
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Add Veggies: Include diced bell peppers or carrots during cooking to enrich the dish with extra nutrients and a colorful presentation.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme during the last hour of cooking for a fresh, aromatic boost that elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Sweet Touch: A dash of honey or brown sugar can be added for a subtle sweetness that balances the spices perfectly. It’s a delightful surprise!
Expert Tips for Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
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Searing Matters: Searing the pork enhances flavor, so if time allows, don’t skip it. However, it can be omitted if you’re in a hurry.
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Cooking Time: Stick to the recommended 8 hours on low for perfectly tender carnitas. Cooking longer may dry out the meat.
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Broiling Technique: Don’t walk away while broiling; keep an eye on it to prevent burning. A crispy finish makes all the difference for your carnitas.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months for future taco nights.
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Flavor Boosters: For extra zing, serve with fresh lime juice and a variety of toppings to elevate your Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas experience.
Storage Tips for Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas
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Fridge: Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and the meat juicy for your next meal.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the carnitas in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
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Serving Refresh: After reheating your Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas, consider broiling them briefly again to restore that mouthwatering crispy edge.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can marinate the pork shoulder with the spices and orange juice up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. Simply combine the seared, marinated pork with the onion and chicken broth in the slow cooker before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, shred the pork and broil it for that crispy finish. To maintain quality, refrigerate the uncooked marinated pork in an airtight container and only shred it just before broiling to ensure the edges are just as crispy and flavorful as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas?
Transform your carnitas into a complete meal that’s sure to impress at any gathering!
- Warm Tortillas: Perfect for wrapping the juicy carnitas, these add a soft, comforting element to each bite.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices and veggies complements the rich flavors of the carnitas, creating a satisfying plate.
- Black Beans: These protein-packed beans bring a creamy texture and earthy flavor that beautifully balances the dish.
- Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with zesty lime dressing provides a bright contrast, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
- Pico de Gallo: This vibrant, fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor and nutrition, making each taco even more delightful.
- Guacamole: Creamy and slightly tangy, guacamole offers a rich, luscious experience that pairs perfectly with the crispy pork.
- Margaritas: A refreshing margarita—whether classic or fruity—makes for an excellent drink that elevates your taco night into a festive occasion.
- Churros: For dessert, these sweet, crispy treats are a delightful way to wrap up your meal with a touch of indulgence.
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe FAQs
What type of pork should I use for Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas?
Absolutely! Pork shoulder is ideal due to its rich flavor and tenderness, creating that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Alternatively, you can use pork butt or pork loin for a leaner option, though the texture may vary slightly.
How long can I store leftover carnitas in the fridge?
Leftover Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor, make sure the container is sealed properly to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze my carnitas for later use?
Yes, you can freeze your carnitas! Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat using a skillet for the best texture.
How do I reheat the carnitas without losing their crispiness?
To reheat, warm the carnitas in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth for moisture. For that delightful crispy finish, you can broil them for just 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Indeed! Make sure to use gluten-free chicken broth if you have gluten sensitivities. Additionally, since this recipe contains pork, it’s not suitable for those following vegetarian or certain religious dietary restrictions.
What if my carnitas turn out too greasy?
If you find your carnitas are greasy, it’s likely due to excess fat in the pork shoulder. To remedy this, trim some of the visible fat before cooking. If they are already cooked, simply skim off some grease from the top after refrigerating them. This will not only reduce greasiness but will also make for a cleaner reheat!
Crispy Slow Cooker Carnitas: Effortless Flavor for Taco Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sear the Pork: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the pork pieces on all sides for about 4-5 minutes until they are nicely browned.
- Deglaze the Skillet: Pour in chicken broth to deglaze your skillet, scraping up delicious caramelized bits, then transfer it into your slow cooker.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Combine the seared pork, cumin, coriander, oregano, minced garlic, sliced onion, and orange juice in the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook: Set your slow cooker on low and cook the mixture for 8 hours until the pork is tender.
- Shred and Broil: After cooking, take the pork out and shred it with two forks. Spread shredded meat on a baking sheet and broil it for 5-7 minutes.