Easy Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Recipe

Hey there! Today I’m sharing a recipe that’s been a family favorite for as long as I can remember: Instant Pot Pork Carnitas. These juicy, flavorful bites of pork are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely bursting with flavor. If you’ve never made carnitas at home, trust me—this is the recipe to try!

If crispy, melt-in-your-mouth pork with zippy lime and vibrant spices sounds like a win, get your Instant Pot ready!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you’ll get slow-cooked flavor in a fraction of the time.
• Versatile: These carnitas are perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, nachos, or even a salad topper!
• Customizable: Adjust the heat, add your favorite toppings, or make it part of your meal prep.
• Kid-Friendly: Skip the spice for little ones, and they’ll love it tucked into a tortilla with cheese.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Boneless Pork Shoulder (or Butt): This is the star of the dish. Look for a cut with some marbling for maximum flavor.
• Orange Juice: Adds a subtly sweet and citrusy punch, helping to tenderize the pork.
• Spices: Don’t skimp on the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano—they’re what give carnitas their signature kick.
• Garlic & Onion: These aromatics infuse the pork with unbeatable depth.
• Bay Leaves: A little culinary magic—these add a gentle, earthy undertone.
• Olive Oil: For that final crisp when we broil it.

Pro Tip: If you can’t find an orange or you’re out of juice, pineapple juice makes a tasty substitute and adds a tropical twist!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat up a tablespoon of olive oil. While it’s heating, cut your pork shoulder into large chunks (about 3-4 inches) and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the pork in batches, just until browned on the outside (no need to cook through). Remove and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring constantly until fragrant. Deglaze the bottom of the pot with a splash of water or broth to loosen up those flavorful brown bits.
4. Return the pork to the pot. Add the orange juice, spices, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
5. Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (or Manual) on High for 35 minutes. Once the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the vent.
6. Carefully remove the pork and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Spread it out on a baking sheet lined with foil.
7. Drizzle the shredded pork with a little of the cooking liquid and broil on high for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway, to achieve those crispy, caramelized edges.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the pot while searing: Brown the pork in batches for the best caramelization.
• Save the cooking liquid: Use it as a juicy drizzle on the finished carnitas or to add extra moisture in leftovers.
• Bumping up the citrus: Add fresh lime juice right before serving for a tangy pop of flavor.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Spicier Carnitas: Add diced jalapeños to the cooking liquid or sprinkle cayenne into the spice mix.
• Taco Night: Serve with warm tortillas, chopped cilantro, diced onion, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
• Burrito Bowls: Layer the carnitas over rice, black beans, and corn salsa for a fun, deconstructed option.
• Leftover Love: This pork makes incredible breakfast tacos or can be added to quesadillas or enchiladas.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the leftovers? Absolutely! Let the carnitas cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
• How do I reheat without drying them out? Add a splash of the reserved cooking liquid or a bit of broth before reheating in a skillet or microwave to keep them juicy.
• What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? You can slow-cook the pork in a crockpot on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Printable Recipe Card

And there you have it—homemade Instant Pot Pork Carnitas that will have you skipping the takeout line every time! I can’t wait to hear how you enjoy them. Did you try a fun topping or creative variation? Let me know in the comments below, or share a photo and tag me on social media with #TheKitchensAid. Happy cooking, friends!