For best results, use a good quality pork shoulder with some marbling. The fat will render during cooking, adding flavor and keeping the pork moist. Don't be afraid to experiment with other spices! A pinch of chili powder or a dash of smoked paprika can add a delicious depth of flavor. If you don't have a slow cooker, you can also cook the carnitas in a Dutch oven in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 3-4 hours, or until tender. Leftover carnitas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Slow Cooker Carnitas
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PREP TIME10 mins
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COOK TIME10 hrs
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TOTAL TIME10 hrs 10 mins
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SERVING10 People
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VIEWS6.2K
Transform an inexpensive pork shoulder into succulent, melt-in-your-mouth carnitas with this incredibly simple slow cooker recipe. Infused with warm spices and gently simmered in broth, this pork is the perfect filling for tacos, burritos, or served atop crispy tostadas. Prepare for a flavor explosion!
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate1 g
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Cholesterol73 mg
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Fiber0 g
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Protein22 g
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Saturated Fat5 g
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Sodium474 mg
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Sugar0 g
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Fat14 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
DIRECTIONS
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01 Step
Recipe View 5 mins Gather all ingredients. (5 minutes)
02 Step
Recipe View 5 mins In a small bowl, combine the salt, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, and cinnamon. (5 minutes)
03 Step
Recipe View 5 mins Thoroughly rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring every surface is coated. (5 minutes)
04 Step
Recipe View 2 mins Place the bay leaves in the bottom of a slow cooker. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the bay leaves. (2 minutes)
05 Step
Recipe View 2 mins Pour the chicken broth around the sides of the pork shoulder, being careful not to wash off the spice mixture. (2 minutes)
06 Step
Recipe View 10 hrs Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 9-10 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. Turning the pork shoulder halfway through the cooking time (after about 5 hours) will ensure even cooking. (9-10 hours)
07 Step
Recipe View 10 mins Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Shred the pork using two forks. (10 minutes)
08 Step
Recipe View 5 mins Skim excess fat from the surface of the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. (5 minutes)
09 Step
Recipe View 2 mins Add some of the cooking liquid back into the shredded pork to moisten it, as needed. (2 minutes)
10 Step
Recipe View 5 mins For extra crispy carnitas, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until the edges are nicely browned and crisp. (5 minutes)
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Marcia Hartmannhilpert
Apr 7, 2025Broiling the shredded pork at the end really takes it to the next level!
Turner Kunze
Dec 24, 2024I added a jalapeno to the slow cooker for a little heat. Delicious!
Christiana Thiel
Nov 18, 2024I didn't have chicken broth, so I used beef broth instead. Still turned out great!
Leonardo Bode
Oct 4, 2024Super easy to follow and the instructions are clear. Will definitely make again!
Dorris Pfeffer
Jan 22, 2023The cinnamon adds a surprising and delightful warmth to the carnitas.
Sierra Prosacco
Dec 24, 2021The spice rub is perfect. My family devoured these carnitas!
Marina Schaefer
Oct 2, 2021This recipe is a game-changer! So easy and the carnitas were incredibly flavorful.
Keagan Crona
Jun 13, 2021I've made this several times and it's always a hit. Thanks for sharing!