Instant Pot Carnitas are tender, juicy, and full of flavor with just the right amount of crispiness after a quick broil. This easy carnitas recipe takes a traditional Mexican favorite and simplifies it for the pressure cooker.
I've made many versions of carnitas over the years, but this one has become my go to for busy weeknights. The blend of citrus and spices makes every bite irresistible, especially when tucked into crispy pork tacos or served with rice and beans.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick comfort: the Instant Pot makes slow cooked flavor happen in half the time.
Crispy perfection: a quick broil gives the pork that perfect golden edge for authentic carnitas texture.
Family favorite: these tender bites of pork are just as good for tacos as they are in burrito bowls or salads.
Key Ingredients for Easy Carnitas Recipe
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.
- Pork shoulder (or butt): the ideal cut for carnitas; it's marbled withi fat for tender, flavorful meat.
- Orange juice: adds sweetness and helps tenderize the pork while balancing the spices.
- Lime juice: brings brightness to the dish and enhances the citrus flavor.
- Cumin and oregano: classic Mexican seasonings that add depth and warmth.
- Garlic and onion powder: boost the flavor without extra chopping or prep work.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use pork loin instead of pork shoulder for a leaner option.
- Swap lemon juice for lime juice if that's what you have on hand.
- Replace orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
Variations on Instant Pot Carnitas
- Spicy Carnitas: add chipotle powder or diced jalapenos before pressure cooking.
- Coca-Cola Carnitas: use ½ cup cola in place of orange juice for a sweet-savory version.
- Carnitas Tacos: serve the pork in warm tortillas with diced onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for crispy pork tacos everyone will love.
Tips for the Best Crispy Pork Tacos
- Don't skip the broil: that quick hit of heat caramelizes the edges and locks in flavor.
- Baste with juices: spoon or baste some of the cooking liquid over the pork before broiling to keep it moist.
- Shred just right: use two forks to gently pull apart the meat so it stays tender without turning mushy.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover Instant Pot Carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet with a splash of the reserved juices until heated through and slightly crisp again.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Carnitas Recipe
.Serve your Instant Pot Carnitas in tacos, burrito bowls or over rice for a satisfying meal. They pair perfectly with Mexican Street Corn Salad and a refreshing Pineapple Agua Fresca.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you love these Instant Pot Carnitas, try my Chipotle Shrimp Tacos, Chile Rellenos with Salsa Roja, Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin, and Instant Pot Venison Stew with Sweet Potatoes.
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
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📖 Recipe
Instant Pot Carnitas
Equipment
- Turkey baster (optional)
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Ingredients
- 1½ pounds pork shoulder or butt cubed
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ lime juice
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ tablespoon oregano
- ½ tablespoon ground cumin
Optional toppings:
- chopped onion
- cilantro
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Mix well to combine.
- Place lid on the instant pot and close to secure. Move the valve to close.
- Cook Carnitas on high pressure for 30 minutes. When the time finishes continue to allow the instant pot to naturally release for 20 minutes.
- While you are waiting for the instant pot to naturally release, turn on the oven broiler.
- Once the instant pot has released, transfer cooked Carnitas meat to a baking sheet.
- Put Carnitas in the oven under the broiler for a 2-3 minutes until meat starts to brown and crisp up.
- Remove from the oven and using a turkey baster, transfer some of the juices from the instant pot onto the crispy Carnitas.
- Eat as is or as a taco. Top with freshly diced onions and fresh cilantro if using.
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