The BEST Instant Pot Carnitas

Juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly crisp on the edges, these Instant Pot Carnitas are the perfect way to bring bold Mexican flavors to your dinner table—without spending hours in the kitchen. Traditional carnitas are slow-cooked for hours to achieve that tender texture, but with this Instant Pot version, you’ll get the same mouthwatering results in a fraction of the time. Pork shoulder, cut into chunks and seasoned with a robust blend of spices, pressure cooks to perfection while citrus juice infuses it with a bright, zesty punch. The final step—broiling the shredded pork—creates crispy, caramelized edges that are perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls. This dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or taco nights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort. Paired with simple garnishes like avocado, pickled onions, and cilantro, this recipe is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this Instant Pot carnitas recipe offers both convenience and versatility. The rich spice mix, the juicy pork, and the tangy citrus come together beautifully, giving you restaurant-quality carnitas in under an hour. Once you try this method, you’ll never go back to the traditional stovetop or oven version again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe transforms a traditionally slow-cooked dish into a speedy weeknight meal using the Instant Pot.

2. Incredibly Flavorful

The spice mix combined with fresh citrus infuses the pork with bold, deep flavors.

3. Versatile

Use the carnitas in tacos, burritos, nachos, bowls, or salads—it’s a flexible base for many dishes.

4. Perfectly Crispy Edges

A quick broil after pressure cooking adds irresistible texture to the tender shredded pork.

5. Meal Prep Friendly

This recipe makes a large batch, ideal for leftovers, freezing, or feeding a crowd.

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Ingredients

Carnitas

• Pork shoulder
• Garlic salt
• Ground cumin
• Dried oregano
• Brown sugar
• Dried basil
• Ground coriander
• Chili powder
• Paprika
• Oranges
• Lime
• Water

For Serving

• Corn tortillas
• Pickled onions
• Avocado
• Cilantro
• Lime

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chipotle peppers in adobo or extra chili powder for added heat.
• Citrus Blend: Use a mix of orange and pineapple juice for a fruitier flavor.
• Different Cuts: Substitute pork shoulder with pork loin for a leaner option (though slightly less tender).
• Stovetop Version: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, use a Dutch oven and slow cook the meat for several hours.
• Broth Base: Replace water with chicken broth for added depth of flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Trim the pork shoulder slightly and cut into 2-inch chunks. Place in a large bowl.

Step 2: Season

In a small bowl, mix garlic salt, cumin, oregano, brown sugar, basil, coriander, chili powder, and paprika. Rub the spice mix evenly over the pork pieces.

Step 3: Add to Instant Pot

Place the seasoned pork into the Instant Pot. Squeeze the juice from the oranges and lime over the meat, then add the fruit halves directly to the pot. Pour in water.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 40 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Shred the Meat

Remove the pork from the pot and shred it with two forks. Discard the fruit rinds.

Step 6: Crisp the Edges

Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5–10 minutes, until the edges are crispy and golden.

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm with corn tortillas, pickled onions, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cut the pork into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Use fresh citrus juice—it adds brightness that bottled juice lacks.
• Don’t skip the broiling step; it adds authentic carnitas texture.
• Make a double batch and freeze half for future meals.
• Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid before using it to moisten the pork if desired.

How to Serve

• In warm corn tortillas topped with avocado, pickled onions, cilantro, and lime.
• Over rice with beans and grilled veggies for a burrito bowl.
• On top of nachos with cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños.
• In lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• Stuffed into quesadillas or tortas for an indulgent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooled carnitas in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 375°F until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or citrus juice to keep the meat moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, pork loin or pork butt can also work, but pork shoulder is the most tender and flavorful choice.

2. How long does it take in the Instant Pot?

Pressure cooking takes 40 minutes, plus about 15 minutes of natural release time.

3. Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker or cook it in the oven in a covered Dutch oven at 300°F for 3–4 hours.

4. Do I need to sear the pork first?

No, it’s not necessary. The pressure cooking and broiling will give it plenty of flavor and texture.

5. What can I use instead of water?

Chicken broth or a mix of broth and citrus juice adds more flavor than water alone.

6. How do I get the pork crispy?

Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5–10 minutes, stirring halfway through.

7. Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add cayenne pepper or diced chipotle peppers in adobo to the spice mix.

8. Is it gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your tortillas and seasonings are gluten-free.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure not to overfill your Instant Pot past the max fill line.

10. What’s the best way to shred pork?

Use two forks while the meat is still hot, or use a hand mixer on low speed for a faster option.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Carnitas are a game-changing way to enjoy a traditional Mexican favorite with minimal time and effort. Packed with bold spices, bright citrus, and melt-in-your-mouth pork, this dish delivers big flavor and texture that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or stocking your freezer with make-ahead meals, this recipe is a versatile and delicious solution you’ll come back to time and again.

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