Carnitas Slow Cooker

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking

For something this simple, it has no right being this good. Just toss a few ingredients in the slow cooker and walk away, and a few hours later, you’ve got tender, flavorful carnitas that cost around $10 to make. These are perfect for a cozy Sunday meal, and let me tell you, my family devours them. They’ve become a staple at our house.

Created by

The Meals By Sophia Team

Last updated on 2026-06-03T16:42:18.837Z

I've been making these carnitas for years, adapting the recipe along the way. One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to let the pork cook low and slow; it really makes a difference in tenderness. The first time I tried it, I hurried the process, and let’s just say, it wasn’t the same.

Honestly, the first time my partner had these, his eyes went wide and he asked if I could make them every week. I knew I was onto something special. I also love using orange juice in the mix; it adds a subtle sweetness that enhances everything. Just wait until you see how easy and satisfying this is!

Choosing Your Ingredients

The quality of your pork shoulder is really important here because it’s the star of the show. Look for a well-marbled piece, as the fat helps keep the meat juicy and tender. If you’re in a pinch, boneless pork butt can work too. Just make sure to cut it into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.

When it comes to seasonings, I usually stick to basic staples like cumin and oregano, but don’t hesitate to play around with spices you enjoy. A splash of chipotle powder or some cayenne can add a delightful kick if you're in the mood for a spicy version.

A Quick Note on Carnitas Slow Cooker

A slow cooker is such a lifesaver for this recipe. It really allows the flavors to meld beautifully without any fuss. If you don't have one, you could use a Dutch oven and follow a similar cooking time in the oven at a low temperature. Just keep an eye on it to prevent dryness.

This cozy dish is versatile; once you have your tender carnitas ready, you can enjoy them in tacos, burritos, or even on top of rice. I often set up a little taco bar for my family, with toppings like cilantro, avocado, and my homemade salsa. It's a fun way to let everyone customize their meal.

Ingredients

Carnitas Ingredients

3 lbs pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into chunks
1 tablespoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, quartered
1 orange, juiced
1 lime, juiced
1 bay leaf

Instructions

Prep the Pork

Start by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder, then cut it into large chunks. Season all sides generously with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. I usually eyeball it, but a good rub is key.

Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, throw in the seasoned pork, the minced garlic, the quartered onion, and the bay leaf. Pour in the orange juice and lime juice, making sure everything is well coated. If you're feeling fancy, you can add a little zest from the orange and lime for an extra kick.

Slow Cook

Cover and set your slow cooker to low for about 8 hours. If you're in a hurry, you can do high for about 4 hours, but I highly recommend low and slow. Just forget about it and let the magic happen.

Shred the Meat

After cooking, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Be cautious; it will be very tender and might fall apart. If you want, you can skip this step and enjoy it as chunks.

Crisp it Up

For extra deliciousness, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes, until the edges get crispy. Keep an eye on it, as it can burn quickly.

Pro Tips

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Try these carnitas in tacos, burritos, or on nachos!
If there are no leftovers, just remember to save some juice from the slow cooker for extra flavor.

What to Serve with Carnitas Slow Cooker

These carnitas go really well with simple sides. I usually throw together some quick guacamole and fresh pico de gallo. You can also serve them over rice with some black beans and a sprinkle of queso fresco to really complete the meal. If you're feeling adventurous, homemade tortillas take things to a whole new level, but store-bought works fine if you’re short on time.

Don’t forget about the drinks! A refreshing margarita or a zesty mojito pairs beautifully with the flavors of the carnitas. If you're hosting, it can really set a fun and cheerful vibe.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about this recipe is that you can make it a day in advance. After shredding the pork, just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can reheat it gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Honestly, letting it sit overnight can enhance the flavors even more.

If you plan to freeze the carnitas, make sure they cool completely before portioning them into freezer-safe bags. They should last a couple of months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating, and they’ll still taste great. Easy meal prep at its finest!