How To Make Pork Carnitas In Slow Cooker [GUIDE]

Pork carnitas is a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine, celebrated for its rich, savory flavor and irresistibly tender texture. Originating from the Mexican state of Michoacán, the word ’carnitas’ literally means “little meats”, which is fitting, considering the dish is traditionally made by slow-cooking pork until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender. When done correctly, the pork shreds easily, with crispy, caramelized edges that contrast beautifully with its succulent interior. Using a slow cooker to make carnitas has become increasingly popular because it allows the meat to cook gently over several hours, enhancing flavors while minimizing hands-on effort. This method is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or when you want a stress-free meal that fills your home with the intoxicating aroma of slow-cooked pork.

How Long To Make Pork Carnitas In Slow Cooker

Cooking pork carnitas in a slow cooker is all about low and slow heat. Typically, a cut like pork shoulder (also called pork butt) takes 6-8 hours on low heat or 4-6 hours on high heat. Slow cooking ensures that the connective tissue and fat break down fully, producing tender, juicy meat that can be shredded effortlessly. The exact timing depends on the size of your pork shoulder and the temperature consistency of your slow cooker. Larger cuts may require an additional hour or two, while smaller portions can cook slightly faster. Patience is key-the longer the meat cooks gently, the richer the flavor and the better the texture.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining when pork carnitas are done is straightforward if you know what to look for. First, the meat should reach an internal temperature of 195-205°F (90-96°C), which allows the collagen and connective tissue to fully break down. More importantly, the pork should pull apart easily with a fork. If you find resistance or tough fibers when trying to shred it, it needs more cooking time. Visually, fully cooked carnitas will have a deep, golden-brown hue on the edges (if finished under a broiler or in a skillet) and a moist, juicy center that practically melts in your mouth.

Ingredients Needed

A classic slow cooker pork carnitas recipe balances savory, sweet, and slightly acidic flavors to infuse the meat while it cooks. The essential ingredients include:

• Pork shoulder (3-4 lbs) – the preferred cut for tenderness and marbling
• Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced) – for aromatic depth
• Onion (1 medium, sliced) – adds sweetness and body to the cooking liquid
• Orange juice (1/2 cup) – for subtle citrus notes that cut through richness
• Lime juice (2 tbsp) – adds brightness and a hint of tang
• Chicken or pork broth (1/2 cup) – keeps the meat moist

• Spices

  • Ground cumin (1 tsp)
  • Chili powder (1-2 tsp)
  • Oregano (1 tsp)
  • Smoked paprika (1 tsp)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Bay leaves (2) – to enhance earthy, aromatic flavors

Optional: some recipes add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of cola for caramelized sweetness.

How To Make Pork Carnitas In Slow Cooker

1. Prepare the pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, but leave some marbling-it keeps the meat moist. Cut into 3-4 large chunks for even cooking.
2. Season the meat: Rub the pork generously with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano.
3. Layer the slow cooker: Place sliced onions and garlic at the bottom, then arrange the pork chunks on top. Pour in orange juice, lime juice, and broth, ensuring some liquid reaches the bottom without fully submerging the meat. Add bay leaves.
4. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 4-6 hours. The meat should be tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return shredded meat to the slow cooker and stir to coat in juices.
6. Optional crisping: For classic crispy edges, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5-10 minutes or sauté in a hot skillet until edges caramelize.

When Things Go Wrong

Even slow-cooked pork can hit snags:

• Meat is dry: Likely overcooked or lacked enough liquid. Always keep a bit of broth or citrus juice in the slow cooker.
• Meat is tough: Undercooked. Give it more time on low heat and check again after 30-60 minutes.
• Flavor is flat: Slow cookers can dilute spices. Adjust seasoning after shredding, adding a pinch more salt, lime juice, or chili powder.
• Juices are too watery: After shredding, remove the meat and reduce the liquid on high heat on the stovetop to concentrate flavors before returning the meat.

Expert Tips

• Use bone-in pork shoulder: Bones add flavor and help keep meat moist.
• Sear before slow cooking: Browning meat in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker intensifies flavor.
• Avoid lifting the lid constantly: Every lift extends cooking time and cools the cooker.
• Crisp at the end: Slow cooker carnitas aren’t naturally crispy; finishing under a broiler or in a hot skillet gives that authentic texture.
• Save the juices: They make a fantastic base for sauces, tacos, or burrito bowls.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. Pork carnitas can also be made in an oven or stovetop pot:

• Oven method: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place seasoned pork in a Dutch oven with liquid, cover, and cook for 3-4 hours until shreddable. Finish under the broiler for crispy edges.
• Stovetop method: Simmer in a heavy pot or Dutch oven over very low heat, covered, for 3-5 hours. Check periodically to ensure the meat isn’t drying out and stir gently.

Slow cookers are convenient, but traditional methods yield equally flavorful results.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Slow cookers excel at reheating without drying meat:

1. Place shredded pork in the slow cooker.
2. Add a splash of broth or orange juice to maintain moisture.
3. Heat on low for 1-2 hours or until warmed through.
4. For crispy leftovers, remove and broil briefly after reheating.

FAQs

What Cut Of Pork Is Best For Making Carnitas In A Slow Cooker?

The best cuts are pork shoulder (also called pork butt) or pork picnic roast. These cuts have a good balance of fat and meat, which helps the carnitas stay tender and flavorful when slow-cooked for several hours.

How Long Should I Cook Pork Carnitas In A Slow Cooker?

Cooking time depends on the setting and size of the meat. On low, cook for 8-10 hours. On high, cook for 4-6 hours. The meat should be tender enough to shred easily with a fork.

Do I Need To Sear The Pork Before Putting It In The Slow Cooker?

Searing the pork is optional but recommended. Browning the meat in a hot skillet before slow cooking enhances flavor and adds a richer color to the final carnitas.

What Seasonings Are Essential For Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas?

Essential seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Additional ingredients like orange juice, lime juice, onions, and bay leaves help tenderize the meat and add a citrusy, aromatic flavor.

Can I Make Pork Carnitas In A Slow Cooker Without Added Liquid?

Yes, slow cookers produce enough moisture from the pork itself, but adding liquids like broth, citrus juice, or a small amount of water ensures the meat stays juicy and helps prevent burning.

How Do I Get Crispy Edges On Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas?

After shredding the cooked pork, spread it on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 5-10 minutes, or pan-fry it in a hot skillet. This gives the carnitas the signature crispy texture.

Can I Freeze Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas?

Yes, fully cooked and shredded pork carnitas can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven, skillet, or microwave until heated through.

How Many Servings Does A Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Recipe Make?

A standard 3-4 pound pork shoulder typically yields 8-10 servings, depending on portion size. Adjust quantities based on the number of people you are serving.

Can I Make Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Spicy?

Absolutely. Add chopped jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo, or cayenne pepper to the slow cooker along with the other seasonings. Adjust spice levels according to taste.

What Are The Best Ways To Serve Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas?

Carnitas are versatile. Serve them in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, or over rice and beans. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onions, lime wedges, or salsa for extra flavor.