slow cooker pork recipe

The Best slow cooker pork recipe

I’ve been making this slow cooker pork recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is incredibly easy to prepare, and the end result is tender, juicy pork that’s packed with flavor.

I love how the slow cooker does all the work for me, allowing me to come home to a ready-to-eat meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. My kids devour this dish, and I appreciate how healthy it is – the slow cooking process breaks down the connective tissue in the meat, making it easy to digest.

Plus, the recipe uses minimal ingredients and is very cost-effective. I’ve served this dish at countless family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always been a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re looking for a new dinner idea or a recipe to serve at a party, this slow cooker pork recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. I’ve experimented with various spices and seasonings over the years, but this basic recipe remains one of my favorites – it’s simple, yet full of depth of flavor.

One thing that sets this recipe apart is its versatility – you can serve it with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables. The best part?

This recipe makes great leftovers, so feel free to double or triple the recipe if you’re planning a big gathering or need food for a crowd.

Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

4.8 from 1836 votes

A flavorful and tender pork dish cooked low and slow in a slow cooker, perfect for tacos, burritos, or salads. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 300 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

2 lb pork shoulder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika

For the Aromatics

1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded and sliced
1 orange, juiced
1 lime, juiced

For Serving

8 small corn tortillas
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place pork shoulder in the slow cooker.
2Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika.
3Rub the spices evenly over the pork.
4Add sliced onion, minced garlic, and sliced jalapeño to the slow cooker.
5Pour orange juice and lime juice over the pork and aromatics.
6Stir gently to combine.
7Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours.
8The pork should be very tender and easily shredded with a fork.
9Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
10Preheat the broiler to high.
11Place the shredded pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12Broil for 5-7 minutes, or until the pork is crispy and lightly browned.
13Stir the pork halfway through broiling to ensure even browning.
14Serve the crispy pork carnitas on warm corn tortillas.
15Top with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 300 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 500mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can add a can of diced green chiles to the slow cooker. This will make the dish spicier.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Works

This slow cooker pork recipe is an excellent choice for any occasion because of its simplicity and adaptability.

You can easily double or triple this recipe if needed and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

When reheating leftovers or serving cooked pork at gatherings, consider pairing it with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas

Q: What type of pork should I use for this recipe?

A: You can use either boneless pork shoulder or butt roast for this recipe. If you prefer leaner meat, look for boneless pork shoulder cuts; if you prefer more marbling and tenderness, opt for bone-in pork butt roast.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to use a pressure cooker; however, reduce the cooking time significantly – about 1-2 hours instead of 8-10 hours.

Q: How do I adjust the spice level in this recipe?

A: To adjust the spice level, simply add more or less of your preferred spices – cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika are all great options.

Q: Can I substitute chicken broth with beef broth?

A: Yes, you can use beef broth as a substitute; however, keep in mind that beef broth has a stronger flavor than chicken broth.

Q: How do I prevent the pork from becoming too dry?

A: To prevent overcooking and dryness, make sure to check on the meat after 6-7 hours of cooking time; if it’s still tender but not falling apart easily, remove it from heat immediately.

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