Slow Cooker Simple Shredded Pork Carnitas

This easy Slow Cooker Simple Shredded Pork Carnitas recipe is perfect for a quick, hearty meal. Made with tender pork shoulder, garlic, and fresh cilantro, it’s packed with flavor. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like avocado, lime, and sour cream for a delicious and customizable dish.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Recipe Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (908 g) boneless pork shoulder
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp (1 g) minced fresh cilantro, plus more for serving
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1½ tsp (2 g) dried oregano
  • 1 (14.5-oz [411-g]) can low-sodium chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 12 corn or flour tortillas, toasted or warmed

TOPPINGS:

  • Diced avocado
  • Lime wedges
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheese  

How To Make Slow Cooker Simple Shredded Pork Carnitas

  1. Prepare the pork: Combine the pork, garlic, cilantro, onion, oregano, broth, salt, and pepper in a 6-quart (6-L) slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours.
  2. Shred the pork: Once cooked, transfer the pork to a plate and shred using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker.
  3. Serve: Serve the carnitas in tortillas and top with additional cilantro, avocado, lime, sour cream, and shredded cheese.

Recipe Tips

  • Use a good cut of pork: Choose a boneless pork shoulder for the best tenderness and flavor. It’s perfect for shredding after slow cooking.
  • Season well: Don’t be afraid to add extra salt and pepper to the pork before cooking, as it will enhance the flavors of the dish.
  • Don’t skip the broiling step: After shredding the pork, broil it for a few minutes to get crispy edges for more texture and flavor.
  • Customize toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like salsa, pickled onions, or jalapeños for extra zest.
  • Rest the meat before shredding: Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for a juicier, more flavorful result.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?

Yes, you can use pork loin or beef chuck, but the pork shoulder gives the best flavor and tenderness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The carnitas can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated when ready to serve.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder to the slow cooker for a spicy kick.

Can I use a slow cooker on low heat for less time?

While it’s recommended to cook on low for 6 hours, you can cook it on high for 3 hours for faster results.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, store the shredded pork in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Check out More Recipes:

Slow Cooker Simple Shredded Pork Carnitas

Recipe by Shili MohamedCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Medium
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

6

hours 
Calories

540

kcal

This easy Slow Cooker Simple Shredded Pork Carnitas recipe is perfect for a quick, hearty meal. Made with tender pork shoulder, garlic, and fresh cilantro, it’s packed with flavor. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like avocado, lime, and sour cream for a delicious and customizable dish.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (908 g) boneless pork shoulder

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp (1 g) minced fresh cilantro, plus more for serving

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 1½ tsp (2 g) dried oregano

  • 1 (14.5-oz [411-g]) can low-sodium chicken broth

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 12 corn or flour tortillas, toasted or warmed

  • TOPPINGS:
  • Diced avocado

  • Lime wedges

  • Sour cream

  • Shredded cheese

Directions

  • Prepare the pork: Combine the pork, garlic, cilantro, onion, oregano, broth, salt, and pepper in a 6-quart (6-L) slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours.
  • Shred the pork: Once cooked, transfer the pork to a plate and shred using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker.
  • Serve: Serve the carnitas in tortillas and top with additional cilantro, avocado, lime, sour cream, and shredded cheese.

Nutrition Facts

6 servings per container


  • Amount Per ServingCalories540
  • % Daily Value *
  • Total Fat 35g 54%
    • Saturated Fat 12g 60%
  • Cholesterol 96mg 32%
  • Sodium 378mg 16%
  • Total Carbohydrate 31g 11%
    • Dietary Fiber 5g 20%
    • Sugars 3g
  • Protein 33g 66%

    * The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

    Shili Mohamed Avatar

    AUTHOR

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Easy Peasy Slow Cook

    Easy Peasy Slow Cook is your go-to destination for simplifying meal times with a slow cooker. Discover recipes that promise deliciousness with minimal effort, making every meal a breeze.


    You’ll also love