13 Best Carnitas Recipes For Tacos, Bowls, Nachos And More

13 Best Carnitas Recipes For Tacos, Bowls, Nachos And More – your ultimate guide to mastering Mexico’s most crave-worthy pork dish. When that irresistible combination of crispy edges and melt-in-your-mouth tender meat calls your name, these carnitas recipes deliver big flavor with every bite. From traditional copper-pot preparations to weeknight-friendly hacks, we’ve gathered the very best methods for creating perfect carnitas to star in all your favorite Mexican dishes.

Imagine pulling apart juicy, citrus-braised pork that’s been crisped to golden perfection – ready to pile into warm tortillas with fresh toppings, layer over nachos for game day, or serve in grain bowls for a protein-packed meal. Whether you prefer authentic slow-cooked carnitas with their signature texture contrast or quicker versions that don’t sacrifice flavor, these recipes will become your go-to for taco nights, potlucks, and any occasion that calls for seriously satisfying food.

Carnitas Burrito Bowl

Carnitas burrito bowls bring a delightful mix of flavors and textures that can easily brighten any meal. This dish features tender, juicy carnitas paired with fluffy rice, zesty beans, and fresh toppings, making it a satisfying and hearty option. It’s simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

The combination of savory carnitas with fresh ingredients creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, you can customize the bowl to suit your taste, whether you prefer extra veggies, a sprinkle of cheese, or guacamole on top.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 lb carnitas (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the carnitas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges.
2. In bowls, layer the cooked rice first, followed by the warmed carnitas.
3. Add the black and pinto beans, corn, and diced tomatoes on top.
4. Garnish with diced avocado and fresh cilantro.
5. Serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Garlic and Herb Carnitas

Garlic and herb carnitas bring a burst of flavor to your meals, transforming simple ingredients into a savory delight. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also provides a mouthwatering taste that pairs perfectly with tacos, bowls, or nachos.

The combination of garlic and fresh herbs infuses the pork with irresistible aromas and a rich flavor, making it a favorite for taco night or meal prep. Plus, it cooks slowly, allowing you to relax while it develops those deep, hearty flavors.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork: Season the pork chunks with salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika. Ensure that the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork and brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Slow Cook: Transfer the browned pork to a slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, chicken broth, and lime juice. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred and Serve: Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks right in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the juices. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Pineapple Salsa Carnitas

Pineapple Salsa Carnitas brings a tropical twist to traditional carnitas. The tender, slow-cooked pork is perfectly complemented by the refreshing sweetness of pineapple salsa, making each bite a delightful blend of flavors. This dish is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, perfect for a casual gathering or a weeknight dinner.

The contrast between the juicy pork and bright, zesty salsa creates a vibrant experience that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fun way to incorporate fresh ingredients into your meal, enhancing the overall taste without much fuss. You’ll find this recipe both simple and satisfying, ideal for tacos, burrito bowls, or even nachos!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup pineapple, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, minced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Place it in a slow cooker with quartered onion and minced garlic. Pour in chicken broth and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until tender.
2. Make the Salsa: In a bowl, combine diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
3. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks, mixing it with the juices in the slow cooker.
4. Serve: Top the shredded pork with pineapple salsa and enjoy in tacos, bowls, or on nachos!

Slow Cooker Citrus Carnitas

Slow Cooker Citrus Carnitas bring a bright and tangy twist to the traditional Mexican dish. The combination of orange and lime infuses the pork with a refreshing flavor that perfectly balances its richness. Plus, using a slow cooker makes this recipe simple and low-maintenance, allowing you to enjoy tender, juicy meat with minimal effort.

This recipe is perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or even as a filling for nachos. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh toppings like cilantro, onions, and avocado. It’s an easy way to elevate any meal!

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 oranges, juiced and zested
• 1 lime, juiced and zested
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Place it in the slow cooker.
2. Add Aromatics: Top the pork with the quartered onion, minced garlic, bay leaf, orange juice, lime juice, and zest from both fruits.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
4. Shred the Meat: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard excess fat and the bay leaf.
5. Serve: Serve the shredded carnitas in tacos, bowls, or nachos, and top with your favorite toppings!

Spicy Chipotle Carnitas

Spicy chipotle carnitas bring a bold twist to traditional slow-cooked pork. The smoky chipotle peppers add a punch that elevates the dish, making it perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or nachos. This recipe is simple, with just a few steps to achieve tender, flavorful meat that will impress your family or friends.

With the right balance of spices and a slow cook, you’ll enjoy the deep, rich flavors that come through. This carnitas recipe is not just satisfying but also versatile, allowing for endless serving ideas!

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork: Season the pork chunks with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, then transfer to a slow cooker.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, and oregano, mixing well.
3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the onion mixture over the seared pork in the slow cooker. Add orange juice, chicken broth, and bay leaves.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred with two forks. Use the remaining cooking liquid to moisten the carnitas as needed. Serve in tacos, bowls, or nachos!

Crispy Oven-Baked Carnitas

If you’re craving delicious carnitas with a crispy finish, oven-baked carnitas are the way to go! This recipe yields tender, juicy pork that’s perfectly seasoned and baked to crispy perfection. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests!

The combination of spices used in this recipe enhances the natural flavors of the pork, giving it a delightful savory kick. Plus, the crispy bits make every bite something special. Serve it in tacos, bowls, or atop nachos for a satisfying meal!

Ingredients

• 3 pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the pork chunks and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
3. Place the seasoned pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven. Pour the chicken broth and lime juice over the top.
4. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until the pork is tender.
5. Remove the lid and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the pork is crispy and browned on the edges.
6. Once done, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the pork using two forks, then toss with the pan juices before serving.

Authentic Mexican Carnitas

Authentic Mexican carnitas are a deliciously tender and flavorful slow-cooked pork dish, perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls. The meat is cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, infused with spices and citrus, giving it a savory and slightly tangy taste that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring minimal hands-on time while the meat does all the work. Just set it to cook and let the flavors develop. You’ll love the crispy bits that form on the outside, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 orange, juiced and zested
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 bay leaves
• Water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the pork shoulder, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, orange juice and zest, lime juice, and bay leaves.
2. Add Water: Pour enough water into the pot to just cover the pork.
3. Cook: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for about 2-3 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and shred it with two forks. Discard excess fat and bay leaves.
5. Crisp the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shredded pork in a single layer and let it cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and crisp the other side.
6. Serve: Enjoy the carnitas in tacos, bowls, or nachos with your favorite toppings!

Beer-Braised Carnitas

Beer-braised carnitas are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican pulled pork. The beer adds a rich depth of flavor, making the meat taste tender and juicy, perfect for tacos, burritos, or even a hearty nacho platter. Plus, this recipe is pretty simple to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and some patience while the meat cooks low and slow.

The combination of spices and the carbonation from the beer create a mouthwatering experience. You’ll get that crispy outside you crave while keeping the inside deliciously moist. It’s a fantastic way to bring a little fiesta to your dinner table!

Ingredients

• 3 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 1 can (12 oz) of beer (lager or pale ale works well)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder pieces with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove the pork and set aside.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Beer and Pork: Return the browned pork to the pot and pour in the beer. Bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits.
5. Slow Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreddable. Stir occasionally and add water if the liquid evaporates too quickly.
6. Shred and Serve: Once done, shred the pork with two forks and mix with the juices. Drizzle with lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Carnitas Quesadillas with Avocado

Carnitas quesadillas with avocado are a delicious way to enjoy tender, juicy pork wrapped in crispy tortillas. The savory flavors of the carnitas combined with melted cheese and creamy avocado create a satisfying meal or snack that’s perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is simple and quick, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up quesadillas that everyone will love, adding a touch of Mexican flair to your table!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked carnitas
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Sour cream or salsa for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
2. Layer half of the carnitas on top of the cheese and add a few slices of avocado. Sprinkle with cilantro and top with more cheese.
3. Fold the tortilla over and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
4. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream or salsa, if desired.

Carnitas Nachos with Cheese

Carnitas nachos topped with gooey cheese are the perfect comfort food for any gathering. These nachos bring together the rich, savory flavors of carnitas, the crunch of fresh tortilla chips, and the deliciousness of melted cheese. They’re easy to whip up, making them a great choice for a quick weeknight snack or a fun party appetizer.

The combination of crispy chips, tender pork, and fresh toppings creates a delightful taste sensation. Add some jalapeños for a kick or pile on fresh veggies for a colorful presentation. You’ll find that everyone will be coming back for more!

Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked carnitas
• 4 cups tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Layer the cooked carnitas over the chips, followed by the shredded cheese.
4. Bake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, green onions, and cilantro.
6. Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for a zesty touch.

Sweet Orange Glazed Carnitas

Sweet Orange Glazed Carnitas offer a delightful twist on the classic slow-cooked pork. The vibrant citrus flavor brightens up the tender, juicy meat, making it perfect for tacos, bowls, or nachos. This recipe is simple to make and will impress your family and friends with its unique taste.

The combination of sweet oranges and savory spices creates a mouth-watering glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, yet it feels special enough for a gathering or a weekend treat.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 cup orange juice
• 2 oranges, zested
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the pork chunks with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. Place them in a slow cooker.
2. Add the onion, garlic, orange juice, orange zest, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
4. Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices.
5. For a crispy finish, spread the shredded carnitas on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes until slightly crispy.
6. Serve garnished with fresh cilantro and enjoy in tacos, bowls, or nachos!

Maple-Sriracha Carnitas

Maple-Sriracha Carnitas are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican pulled pork. They combine the rich savoriness of slow-cooked pork with the sweet and spicy notes of maple syrup and Sriracha sauce, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect for tacos, bowls, or nachos, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a crowd-pleaser.

The balance of flavors makes these carnitas a great choice for any occasion. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, allowing the slow cooker to do most of the work. Just set it and let those flavors meld together for a delicious result.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Juice of 2 limes
• Tortillas, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder chunks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the maple syrup, Sriracha, and lime juice. Stir well.
3. Slow Cook: Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Add the chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender.
4. Shred the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, mixing it with the remaining juices.
5. Serve: Warm the tortillas and fill them with the Maple-Sriracha carnitas. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Carnitas Tacos with Pickled Onions

Carnitas tacos bring a burst of flavor to your meal with their crispy pork and vibrant toppings. The slow-cooked carnitas are tender and juicy, while the pickled onions add a tangy crunch that perfectly balances the richness of the meat. This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it easy to whip up a satisfying meal any night of the week.

With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a delicious taco feast that’s sure to impress. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, these tacos are a favorite for good reason!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 orange, juiced (reserve the halves)
• 8 small corn tortillas
• Cilantro, for garnish
• Pickled onions, for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: In a slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, garlic, onion, and orange juice. Squeeze the juice from the orange halves into the mixture and then add the halves to the pot.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Shred the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Strain the liquid and reserve it for serving.
4. Prepare the Tacos: Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until warm. Fill each tortilla with shredded carnitas and top with pickled onions and cilantro.
5. Serve: Drizzle a bit of the reserved cooking liquid over the tacos for extra flavor, and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Great carnitas strike that magical balance between tender interior and crispy exterior that keeps you coming back for “just one more bite.” As you explore these recipes, you’ll discover how versatile this Mexican classic can be – equally at home in elegant dishes or casual street food. The secret lies in quality pork, patient cooking, and those bright finishing touches of citrus and herbs. Keep these recipes handy, because once you serve up a batch of perfect carnitas, your friends and family will be begging you to make them again and again.