There is nothing quite like indulging in The BEST Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe when you crave tender, flavorful pork with a perfect balance of citrus and spices. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into melt-in-your-mouth carnitas in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. The Instant Pot does all the hard work, ensuring juicy meat with a hint of smokiness, spice, and tang that will have you coming back for seconds — and thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with The BEST Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe means gathering a handful of ingredients that are straightforward yet crucial for that signature taste and texture. Each one contributes something special, from juicy pork shoulder to the vibrant mix of spices and fresh citrus juices that brighten the dish.
- Boneless pork shoulder (3.5 lbs, cut into 2-inch chunks): The star of the dish that becomes tender and flavorful after pressure cooking.
- White onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the carnitas base.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Packs a punch of earthy, savory flavor that complements the pork perfectly.
- Fresh orange juice (1 cup): Offers a natural sweetness and acidity that tenderizes the meat while brightening the flavors.
- Lime juice (juice of 2 limes): Injects a zesty, refreshing tang that balances the richness of the pork.
- Chicken broth (¼ cup): Keeps the carnitas moist and adds savory notes during cooking.
- Chili powder (2 tablespoons): Brings smoky warmth and a subtle heat to the spice blend.
- Ground cumin (1 tablespoon): Introduces an earthy, slightly nutty flavor that’s essential for authentic carnitas.
- Ground oregano (1 tablespoon): Adds a hint of herbal brightness and complexity.
- Smoked paprika (1 tablespoon): Lends a smoky, rich depth without needing a grill or smoker.
- Salt (1 tablespoon): Enhances every flavor and helps with seasoning balance.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Provides a mild spice that rounds out the seasoning.
- Cayenne pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
How to Make The BEST Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Pork
Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode and adding a splash of oil. Brown the pork shoulder chunks in batches so they get a lovely caramelized crust. This step is key for developing deep flavors and locking in juices, so don’t rush it — about 2 to 3 minutes per side does the trick. Once browned, remove the pork and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until they become fragrant and soft — this usually takes around 2 to 3 minutes. These aromatics build the flavorful foundation that your carnitas will cook in, infusing every bite with sweetness and garlicky warmth.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Return the browned pork to the pot and pour in the fresh orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth. These liquids not only keep the pork tender under pressure but also add the perfect balance of citrus zest and savory moisture. Next, sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne over the pork. Stir gently to evenly coat the meat with all the glorious spices.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Choose the manual or pressure cook function at high pressure for 30 minutes. This cooking method is what turns your tough pork shoulder into unbelievably tender, shreddable carnitas packed with flavor.
Step 5: Release Pressure and Shred
After the cooking cycle completes, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes—this helps keep the meat juicy and soft—then carefully quick release any remaining pressure. Remove the pork chunks and shred them with two forks. This texture is exactly what makes carnitas so darn satisfying.
Step 6: Crisp the Edges (Optional but Recommended)
If you want to take your carnitas to the next level, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil it for about 5 minutes. This step crisps up the edges and gives you that irresistible contrast between tender meat and slightly crunchy bits — it’s an absolute game-changer.
How to Serve The BEST Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing, simple is best to showcase those layers of flavor. Freshly chopped cilantro, diced white onion, sliced radishes, and a squeeze of lime juice enhance the carnitas beautifully. Don’t forget to add your favorite salsa or avocado slices for extra creaminess and brightness.
Side Dishes
Carnitas pair wonderfully with warm corn tortillas and a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a classic combo. You can also serve them alongside a crisp cabbage slaw or fresh pico de gallo to add crunch and freshness. These sides round out the meal and complement the hearty, meaty star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond tacos, carnitas can shine in burrito bowls with rice, beans, and plenty of toppings, or as a filling for quesadillas and enchiladas. You could even turn them into nachos by layering shredded carnitas over tortilla chips with cheese and jalapeños—perfect for sharing and snacking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover carnitas keep exceptionally well and taste even better the next day after the flavors marry. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it easy to reheat for quick meals throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these carnitas later, freezing is a smart option. Place the shredded meat in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your carnitas gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist. Alternatively, warming them in the microwave works well, just be sure to cover the dish to avoid drying out the pork.
FAQs
Can I use pork other than shoulder for this recipe?
While pork shoulder is preferred for its fat content and tenderness, you can use pork butt or picnic roast as alternatives. Avoid leaner cuts like pork loin since they can become dry during pressure cooking.
Is it necessary to broil the carnitas after shredding?
Broiling is optional but highly recommended because it crisps the shredded edges, adding wonderful texture contrast that elevates the dish from delicious to unforgettable.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
You absolutely can, but the cooking time will increase significantly. For stovetop or slow cooker methods, expect several hours of cooking to achieve the same tender results.
How spicy is this carnitas recipe?
The cayenne pepper adds mild heat, but if you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce or omit it. The overall heat level is gentle enough to please most palates while still having a subtle kick.
What are the best tortillas to serve with carnitas?
Corn tortillas are classic and offer authentic flavor and texture, but flour tortillas work great too, especially if you prefer a softer wrap that holds lots of filling without tearing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to dive into a dish bursting with bold flavors, tender meat, and that irresistible crispy finish, you absolutely have to make The BEST Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser, an easy weeknight hero, and a genuine comfort food favorite that will have everyone asking for your secret. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become your go-to for carnitas every time.
Print
The BEST Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Instant Pot Carnitas recipe delivers tender, flavorful pork shoulder cooked to perfection in just 45 minutes. The pork is first browned for rich flavor, then pressure cooked with a blend of spices and citrus juices. After shredding, you can broil the meat to achieve crispy edges reminiscent of traditional slow-cooked carnitas, perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls.
Ingredients
Meat
- 3.5 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (from 2–3 oranges)
- Juice of 2 limes
- ¼ cup chicken broth (or any broth or water)
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground oregano
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Brown the pork: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a small amount of oil. Brown the pork chunks in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove meat and set aside to maintain the browned crust.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and softened, which builds the flavor base.
- Add liquids and pork back: Return the browned pork chunks to the pot. Pour in the fresh orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth, which will infuse the pork with zesty and savory notes while cooking.
- Season the meat: Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper evenly over the pork and liquids. Stir gently to ensure the spices are well incorporated throughout.
- Pressure cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and seal the valve. Set it to manual/high pressure cooking for 30 minutes to tenderize the pork quickly while locking in flavors.
- Release pressure: Once cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure to safely open the pot.
- Shred the pork: Remove the pork chunks from the pot and shred them finely with two forks for that perfect carnitas texture. For crispy edges, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the tender, flavorful carnitas warm with tortillas, salsa, and your favorite toppings to enjoy a delicious Mexican-inspired meal.
Notes
- Broiling the shredded pork is optional but adds a delightful crispy texture typical of traditional carnitas.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Freshly squeezed orange and lime juices add brightness and help tenderize the pork.
- You can substitute chicken broth with water or vegetable broth if preferred.
- Leftover carnitas can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
