Slow cooker Mexican carnitas are a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of Mexico into your own kitchen. This traditional dish is typically made by simmering pork in fat until it becomes tender and crispy. However, using a slow cooker cuts down on the cooking time and makes it a perfect option for busy weeknight meals. Not only is this recipe convenient, but it also produces tender and flavorful meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. Let's dive into the steps of making this mouth-watering Mexican carnitas recipe in a slow cooker.
Main Ingredients: Corn Tortillas, Carnitas, Salsa Verde, Pickled Red
Carnitas tacos are a classic Mexican dish that features tender, juicy pork that has been slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe is a crowd-pleasing favorite that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The secret to these tacos is the beer can chicken, which adds a unique flavor and moisture to the pork. Plus, it's so easy to make in the oven or on the grill. Let's dive into the top 20 beer can chicken recipes for carnitas tacos!
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Slow Cooker Carnitas Quesadillas
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Chipotle Powder, Black Pepper
Who doesn't love a good quesadilla? This recipe takes it to the next level with tender beer can chicken carnitas and gooey melted cheese. The slow cooker makes this dish incredibly easy to prepare, and the flavors are out of this world. Add some fresh guacamole and pico de gallo for the perfect finishing touch.
This classic Mexican dish is a staple in many households, and for good reason. The combination of tender pork, savory spices, and a touch of citrus makes for a mouthwatering meal. The beer can chicken in this recipe adds a unique twist and takes the flavor to the next level. Serve it up with some warm tortillas and all your favorite toppings.
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Pork Carnitas Tacos With Tomatillo Salsa Verde
Main Ingredients: Salsa Verde, Tomatillos, Green Chilis, Onion, Fresh
If you're a fan of tangy and spicy flavors, then this recipe is for you. The tomatillo salsa verde adds a delicious kick to the tender beer can chicken carnitas. Cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges are the perfect toppings to balance out the heat. Plus, these tacos are so easy to assemble and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
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Carnitas Street Tacos
Main Ingredients: Corn Tortillas, Pork Carnitas, Green Cabbage, Red
Street tacos are all the rage right now, and for a good reason. These small but mighty tacos are packed with flavor and make for a fun and interactive eating experience. These carnitas street tacos feature tender beer can chicken, pickled red onions, and a spicy salsa for the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy. Serve them up with a cold Mexican beer for the ultimate experience.
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Pork Carnitas Burrito Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Salt, Pepper, Dried Oregano
For a healthier spin on traditional carnitas tacos, try this burrito bowl recipe. The beer can chicken adds a nice smoky flavor to the tender pork, and the cilantro lime rice and black beans add a nice balance of flavors and textures. Top it off with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, and avocado for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Carnitas Enchiladas (Pork Enchiladas)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, All Purpose Flour, Chili Powder, Ground
Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that is always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe takes it up a notch with tender beer can chicken carnitas and a spicy enchilada sauce. The combination of flavors is out of this world, and the dish is surprisingly easy to make. Serve it up with some refried beans and a cold cerveza for a truly satisfying meal.
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Carnitas Taco Lettuce Wraps
Main Ingredients: Avocados, Lime, Garlic Clove, Salt, Bibb Lettuce, Red
For a lighter and healthier option, try these carnitas taco lettuce wraps. The beer can chicken adds a nice crispy texture to the tender pork, and the lettuce adds a nice crunch. Top it off with some fresh mango salsa and avocado crema for a burst of flavor. These wraps are perfect for a summer dinner or a light lunch.
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Carnitas Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Dried Oregano, Ground Cumin
If you're a fan of stuffed peppers, then you need to try this recipe. The tender beer can chicken carnitas are stuffed into poblano peppers and topped with a spicy tomato sauce and cheese. The flavors are out of this world, and it's a great way to sneak in some vegetables into your meal. Serve it up with some Spanish rice for the ultimate comfort food.
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Easy Pork Carnitas Taco Board
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Lime, White Onion, Cilantro, Chip, Blue
For your next gathering, why not create a fun and interactive taco board? This recipe features tender beer can chicken carnitas, as well as all the toppings you could ever want. Think shredded cheese, guacamole, corn salsa, and pickled red onions. Let your guests build their own tacos for a fun and delicious meal.
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Carnitas Chilaquiles with Whipped Jalapeño Cream.
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder Roast, Canola Oil, Pepper, Salt, Smoked
Chilaquiles is a classic Mexican breakfast dish that is perfect for any time of the day. This recipe features tender beer can chicken carnitas, crispy tortilla chips, and a spicy tomato sauce. The whipped jalapeño cream adds a nice cooling factor and balances out the spice. Serve it up with a bloody mary for a truly indulgent meal.
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Ultimate Nachos with Beer-Braised Carnitas
Main Ingredients: Salt, Smoked Paprika, Cumin, Onion Powder, Chili
Nachos are always a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe takes them to the next level. The beer-braised carnitas add a unique and delicious flavor to the nachos, and the toppings are endless. Think jalapeños, black olives, green onions, and of course, plenty of cheese. Serve them up with your favorite Mexican beer for the ultimate game day snack.
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Skinny Crispy Carnitas Tacos with Cilantro Lime Ranch
Main Ingredients: Mission Corn Tortillas, Cream, Carnitas, Avocado
If you're looking for a healthier option, these skinny crispy carnitas tacos are the way to go. The beer can chicken adds a nice crunch to these tacos, and the cilantro lime ranch adds a nice burst of flavor. Top them off with some shredded cabbage and radishes for some extra crunch and color.
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Whole30 Chilaquiles with Carnitas and Sweet Potatoes...
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Avocado Oil, Salt, Pepper, Salsa
For those following a Whole30 diet, this recipe is perfect for you. The beer can chicken carnitas are paired with sweet potatoes, spinach, and a spicy tomato sauce for a satisfying and healthy meal. This dish is great for meal prep and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
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Carnitas Caldo (Carnitas Soup)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Chayote, Garlic, Chicken Broth
For a hearty and comforting meal, try this carnitas caldo recipe. The beer can chicken adds a nice smoky flavor to the soup, and the vegetables and spices make it a truly satisfying meal. Serve it up with some tortilla chips and a dollop of avocado crema for a delicious and filling meal.
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Mexican Cuban Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Ham Slices, Cheese, Pickled Jalapenos
If you're in the mood for a sandwich, try this Mexican twist on a Cuban sandwich. The beer can chicken carnitas are paired with ham, pickles, mustard, and cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal. This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and is sure to please everyone.
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Carnitas Enchiladas
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Pinto Beans, Rice, Green Chilis, Cotija
Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that is always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe features tender beer can chicken carnitas and a spicy enchilada sauce. The combination of flavors is out of this world, and the dish is surprisingly easy to make. Serve it up with some refried beans and a cold cerveza for a truly satisfying meal.
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Beef Carnitas Tacos
Main Ingredients: Plum Tomato, Chopped Onion, Avocado, Fresh Cilantro
For a twist on traditional pork carnitas tacos, try this recipe with beef instead. The beer can chicken adds a nice smoky flavor to the beef, and the spices make it a truly delicious meal. Serve it up with some fresh salsa and guacamole for the perfect combination of flavors.
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Carnitas Bowls
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Rice, Pico De Gallo, Black Beans, Whole
For a healthier spin on traditional carnitas tacos, try these bowls. The beer can chicken adds a nice crispy texture to the tender pork, and the rice, beans, and vegetables make it a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Top it off with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, and avocado for a delicious and easy meal.
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Loaded Carnitas Tacos With Avocado Tomatillo Salsa
Main Ingredients: Tomatillos, Jalapeno, Garlic, Avocado, Cilantro, Salt
Last but not least, we have these loaded carnitas tacos with a delicious avocado tomatillo salsa. The beer can chicken adds a nice smoky flavor to the tender pork, and the toppings are endless. Think corn salsa, pickled red onions, and crumbled queso fresco. These tacos are perfect for a fun and flavorful meal with friends and family.
Why Slow Cooker Mexican Carnitas?
Convenience and Flavor
Slow cooker Mexican carnitas are a popular choice among busy individuals and families looking for a convenient and delicious meal option. Unlike traditional methods of cooking carnitas, which can take hours, using a slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it. This means you can continue with your day while your carnitas cooks to perfection. Plus, the long, slow cooking time allows the flavors to fully develop and infuse into the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
Versatility in Dishes
Another great aspect of slow cooker Mexican carnitas is their versatility in dishes. Once your pork is cooked and tender, you can use it in a variety of ways. From tacos and burritos to salads and rice bowls, the options are endless. You can even use the leftover meat for breakfast burritos or sandwiches. With one simple recipe, you have the base for multiple meals throughout the week.
Healthier Option
Using a slow cooker for Mexican carnitas also offers a healthier option compared to traditional cooking methods. By using a slow cooker, you can control the amount of added fat and sodium in the dish. Additionally, the pork is cooked in its own juices, making it a leaner protein option. This is a great way to enjoy a traditional Mexican dish without sacrificing your health goals.
Easy Preparation
Not only is this recipe convenient and versatile, but it is also incredibly easy to prepare. All you need to do is season the pork, place it in the slow cooker, and let it cook on low heat for several hours. This makes it a perfect option for those who are new to cooking or those who are short on time. You can even prep the ingredients the night before and simply turn on the slow cooker in the morning for a hassle-free meal.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, slow cooker Mexican carnitas are a must-try for anyone looking to add some Mexican flavor to their meals. This recipe offers convenience, versatility, and a healthier option compared to traditional methods of cooking carnitas. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can have a delicious and authentic Mexican dish on your table in no time. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why slow cooker Mexican carnitas are a fan-favorite?
