BBQ Pork Carnitas in the Crock Pot

This BBQ Pork Carnitas in the Crock Pot features tender, shredded pork with a smoky BBQ twist. Perfect for a hearty meal, it’s a simple recipe that blends rich, savory flavors into a nutritious dish with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pork carnitas is a nutritious, hearty dinner option that transforms tender, shredded pork with a smoky BBQ twist into a flavorful delight, perfect for a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare with hands-off cooking, it’s packed with protein and taste. Versatile—serve with tortillas or over salad—this recipe offers a delicious and wholesome indulgence.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Sear the Pork: Enhances flavor and texture.
• Use Fresh Spices: Adds better aroma.
• Cook on Low: Ensures fall-apart tenderness.
• Stir Occasionally: Ensures even sauce distribution.
• Check Doneness: Meat should shred easily.
• Avoid Overfilling: Leaves room for juices to blend.
• Serve Warm: Maximizes the smoky appeal.
• Thicken Sauce if Desired: Simmer uncovered if too thin.
• Rest Before Serving: Allows flavors to meld.
• Adjust Smokiness: Taste and tweak BBQ sauce to preference.

Yield: 8 servings

BBQ Pork Carnitas in the Crock Pot

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Tender BBQ pork carnitas, savory crockpot meal.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 10 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 10 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup low-sugar BBQ sauce
• 1 large onion
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork: Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear pork for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to slow cooker.
3. Chop the Veggies: Slice onion and mince garlic.
4. Combine Ingredients: Place onion and garlic around the pork in the slow cooker. Add BBQ sauce, chicken broth, smoked paprika, and cumin.
5. Season the Dish: Stir to mix the ingredients evenly around the pork.
6. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours until pork is tender.
7. Check Doneness: Ensure the pork shreds easily with a fork.
8. Shred the Meat: Remove pork, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker. Stir to coat with sauce.
9. Rest the Carnitas: Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes with the lid off to thicken slightly.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve warm, savoring this smoky, tender BBQ delight!

Notes

• Sear pork first for flavor; use fresh spices for aroma.
• Stir occasionally for even cooking; check seasoning to taste.
• Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness; reheat gently to preserve moisture.
• This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 614Total Fat 37gSaturated Fat 13gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 20gCholesterol 153mgSodium 456mgCarbohydrates 29gFiber 0gSugar 27gProtein 40g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Pork Shoulder (3 lbs): Boneless, for rich texture.
• BBQ Sauce (1 cup): Low-sugar, for smokiness.
• Chicken Broth (½ cup): Low-sodium, for moisture.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Minced, for depth.
• Onion (1 large): Sliced, for aroma.
• Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): For extra smokiness.
• Cumin (1 tsp): Ground, for warmth.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp): Ground for a subtle kick.
• Cilantro (2 tbsp): Chopped, for garnish.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Swap: Use pork loin or beef chuck.
• Sauce Swap: Replace BBQ with enchilada sauce.
• Broth Swap: Use vegetable broth or water.
• Garlic Swap: Use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
• Onion Swap: Use shallots for milder flavor.
• Spice Swap: Add chili powder for heat.
• Low-Sodium: Reduce or skip salt based on sauce.
• Garnish Swap: Use green onions or omit.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat on stovetop.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge.
• Reheating: Warm on low heat with a splash of water.

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Until you can read, Award-Winning Delicious Slow Cooker Chili