If you have been craving vibrant, flavorful pork that falls apart tender yet crisps up beautifully, you are in for a treat with this Easy Instant Pot Carnitas (So Juicy!) Recipe. This dish has won over the hearts of many with its simple ingredient list and the magic of pressure cooking that promises juicy, melt-in-your-mouth pork every time. Whether you’re whipping up tacos for a fiesta or just want a comforting meal with bold Mexican-inspired spices, these carnitas deliver on taste, ease, and texture like no other.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create those signature juicy carnitas with layers of citrusy brightness and deep savory notes. Each item plays a crucial role, from tenderizing the pork to adding that irresistible aroma and zing.
- 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder/Boston butt: The perfect cut for carnitas because of its fat content and tenderness after cooking.
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential to season and bring out the pork’s natural flavors.
- 2–3 tablespoons high-heat oil (avocado oil): Ideal for browning the pork to develop caramelized, flavorful edges.
- â…“ cup fresh squeezed orange juice: Adds bright citrus sweetness that tenderizes and balances spices.
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed lime juice: Lends a sharp, zesty kick for authentic carnitas taste.
- 1 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped: Infuses the dish with savory depth and sweetness as it cooks.
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin: Gives a warm, earthy spice signature to Mexican cuisine.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Offers herbal notes that elevate the flavor profile wonderfully.
- 10–12 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed: Packs a bold, aromatic punch that complements pork perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar: Balances savory and citrus with a hint of caramelized sweetness.
- 2 bay leaves: Add subtle herbal fragrance and complexity during pressure cooking.
- 1 (12-ounce) bottle/can of beer (Modelo) or 1 ½ cups chicken broth/stock: The cooking liquid that tenderizes and enriches the meat beautifully.
- Optional toppings and sides (tortillas, chopped onion, sliced radish, cilantro, lime wedges): Perfect to customize your tacos or carnitas bowls.
How to Make Easy Instant Pot Carnitas (So Juicy!) Recipe
Step 1: Season the Pork Shoulder
Start by generously seasoning your pork chunks with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt penetrates the meat early on, ensuring every bite is deeply flavorful, so don’t be shy here.
Step 2: Massage Seasoning into Pork
Give the pork a gentle massage with the seasoning to coat every inch evenly, which helps the spices cling and simply amps up the taste.
Step 3: Brown the Pork
Heat your chosen high-heat oil—avocado oil works beautifully—in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Browning the pork in batches on all sides forms a rich, caramelized crust that adds incredible depth to your carnitas.
Step 4: Transfer Pork Aside
Once browned, move the pork to a plate to prepare the pot for the next step, ensuring nothing burns or sticks during deglazing.
Step 5: Assemble the Braise
Return all the pork pieces back to the Instant Pot and add fresh squeezed orange juice, lime juice, chopped onion, cumin, oregano, garlic, brown sugar, and bay leaves. These ingredients combine to create a complex, tangy, and slightly sweet braising liquid.
Step 6: Add the Cooking Liquid
Pour in the beer or chicken broth of your choice, which will steam the pork while imparting additional savory notes. Give it a quick stir to blend everything evenly before sealing the pot.
Step 7: Pressure Cook the Carnitas
Seal your Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on high for 45 minutes. This phase is where the magic happens—tender meat shreds effortlessly, soaking up those delicious flavors.
Step 8: Natural Pressure Release
Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally—it helps the pork retain its juiciness, preventing it from drying out or becoming stringy.
Step 9: Shred the Pork
Remove the pork from the pot and shred it with forks, preserving some of the cooking liquid to keep it moist and luscious.
Step 10: Crispy Carnitas (Optional)
For that irresistible crispy character reminiscent of classic carnitas, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil until edges crisp up. Alternatively, pan-frying in a hot skillet with a bit of cooking liquid works beautifully too. This step is why this Easy Instant Pot Carnitas (So Juicy!) Recipe is a game-changer—juicy inside, crispy outside perfection.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
Season to taste one last time and serve your carnitas in tacos, burritos, or bowls—however you like. You’re about to indulge in a dish with layers of flavor, texture, and that wonderful homemade vibe that’s hard to beat.
How to Serve Easy Instant Pot Carnitas (So Juicy!) Recipe
Garnishes
The joy of carnitas comes alive with fresh, colorful garnishes. Chopped onions, sliced radishes, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges add crunch, herbal brightness, and acidity that perfectly balance the rich pork. Don’t forget a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of creamy guacamole if you like some extra oomph.
Side Dishes
Traditionally, carnitas pair wonderfully with warm corn or flour tortillas for tacos or as a protein topping on Mexican rice and beans. For a lighter approach, assemble carnitas bowls with crisp lettuce, avocado, pickled veggies, and a sprinkle of queso fresco for a fresh, vibrant feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond tacos? Try carnitas pizza with a smoky chipotle sauce base, carnitas stuffed into savory empanadas, or atop loaded nachos with melted cheese and jalapeños. This Easy Instant Pot Carnitas (So Juicy!) Recipe lends itself to endless culinary creativity, making every meal feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover carnitas store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Before storing, ensure the pork has cooled to room temperature to maintain safety and flavor. Reheat gently to preserve moisture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Portion the shredded pork into freezer-safe bags or containers with a bit of cooking liquid to prevent freezer burn. Carnitas will keep up to 3 months in the freezer and thaw quickly in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
To reheat, warm carnitas in a skillet or microwave with a splash of reserved cooking liquid to revive their juiciness. Finish with a quick crisp-up in a hot pan if you love that contrast of textures as much as I do!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of pork for carnitas?
While pork shoulder or Boston butt is ideal for its fat content and tenderness, you can experiment with pork butt or even pork loin if you prefer leaner meat. Just be cautious, as lean cuts may dry out during pressure cooking.
Is beer necessary for this recipe?
Beer is traditional as it adds depth and slight bitterness, enhancing the pork’s flavor. However, chicken broth or stock is a great substitute if you prefer to skip alcohol or want a milder taste.
How do I get my carnitas crispy without an oven?
No oven? No problem! Pan-frying shredded carnitas in a hot non-stick skillet with a little oil crisps them wonderfully. Stir frequently for even browning and to avoid burning.
Can I prepare this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Definitely! You can make carnitas on the stove or in a slow cooker. Cooking time will be longer, but the flavors remain vibrant and delicious. Just simmer until pork is tender enough to shred easily.
What can I do with leftover cooking liquid?
Don’t toss it! The flavorful cooking liquid can be used to moisten shredded carnitas before crisping or as a broth base for soups, stews, or even as a zesty cooking liquid for rice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about mastering an Easy Instant Pot Carnitas (So Juicy!) Recipe at home—it’s the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and texture that feels just like a fiesta in your mouth. I hope you give this recipe a whirl and discover how effortlessly it turns everyday ingredients into something spectacular. Here’s to many delicious meals ahead filled with juicy, crispy carnitas magic!
Print
Easy Instant Pot Carnitas (So Juicy!) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Easy Instant Pot Carnitas recipe delivers tender, juicy pork shoulder braised to perfection with bright citrus and warm spices. The pressure cooker speeds up the traditional slow cooking process, infusing the meat with incredible flavor and tenderness in just 45 minutes. Finish the carnitas by crisping the shredded pork under the broiler or in a hot pan for the signature texture. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls, these carnitas are bursting with authentic Mexican-inspired taste and effortless preparation.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder/Boston butt, cut into chunks
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to season
- 2–3 tablespoons high-heat oil (avocado oil)
Liquid and Aromatics
- â…“ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed lime juice
- 1 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped
- 10–12 cloves of garlic, finely minced or pressed
- 1 (12-ounce) bottle/can of beer (Modelo) or 1 ½ cups chicken broth/stock
Spices and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 2 bay leaves
Optional Garnishes
- Tortillas
- Chopped onion
- Sliced radish
- Cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Season the Pork Shoulder: Generously season the pork chunks with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to ensure the meat is flavorful throughout.
- Massage Seasoning into Pork: Rub the seasoning into all sides of the pork chunks to help the flavors penetrate the meat evenly.
- Brown the Pork: Turn the Instant Pot to the high sauté setting and heat 2–3 tablespoons of high-heat oil until shimmering.
- Brown Pork on All Sides: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, sear the pork pieces until well browned on all sides, developing deep caramelized flavor.
- Transfer to a Plate: Remove the browned pork from the pot and set aside on a plate temporarily.
- Assemble the Braise: Return all the browned pork pieces back into the Instant Pot.
- Add Flavorings: Pour in the fresh orange juice and lime juice, add chopped onion, cumin, oregano, finely minced garlic, brown sugar, and bay leaves on top of the pork.
- Pour in Liquid: Add the beer (Modelo) or chicken broth/stock, ensuring the pork is partially submerged to facilitate cooking and flavor infusion.
- Mix to Combine: Stir gently to distribute the spices and liquids evenly around the meat.
- Seal the Instant Pot: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Pressure Cook: Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, allowing the pork to become tender and juicy.
- Natural Pressure Release: Let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally to maintain moisture and tenderness.
- Shred the Pork: Carefully remove the pork chunks and shred them using two forks until pulled apart into bite-sized pieces.
- Reserve Cooking Liquid: Keep some of the flavorful cooking liquid for moistening the shredded meat later.
- Crispy Carnitas (Optional) – Oven: Preheat the broiler and spread shredded pork on a baking sheet. Add a splash of reserved cooking liquid and broil until the edges are crispy and browned.
- Crispy Carnitas (Optional) – Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of reserved cooking liquid to shredded pork, and pan-fry until crispy bits form.
- Season to Taste: Adjust salt and pepper if needed before serving to balance the flavors.
- Serve Carnitas: Use the carnitas as a filling for tortillas or your preferred dish, garnishing with chopped onion, sliced radish, cilantro, and lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute beer with chicken broth for a milder flavor.
- Browning the pork in batches is important to avoid steaming and to develop deep flavor.
- Natural pressure release helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
- Adding a bit of cooking liquid before crisping the shredded pork prevents it from drying out.
- Serve carnitas with warm tortillas and fresh toppings for authentic tacos.
- Leftover carnitas can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
