If you’re looking for a mouthwatering, tender, and ever-so-slightly crispy meat that practically melts in your mouth, you’ve landed in the right place! Slow Cooker Crispy Carnitas is the perfect dish to impress your family and friends, and the best part? It requires minimal effort with the help of your trusty slow cooker. This recipe uses the delightful sweetness of Dr. Pepper combined with savory spices, making it an unforgettable meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or simply enjoy a good taco night, you know that carnitas are one of the highlights. The beauty of this slow cooker recipe is that the long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender meat that’s packed with flavor. The addition of Dr. Pepper not only provides sweetness, but it also helps to caramelize the beef, giving it that crispy texture we all crave. Plus, with the convenience of a slow cooker, dinner practically prepares itself! Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

Ingredients

2 liters Dr. Pepper
4 to 5 pounds boneless beef roast, trimmed of fat and cut into 3-inch chunks
2 teaspoons cumin
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 bay leaves
1 large yellow onion, peeled and chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup orange juice

How To Make Slow Cooker Crispy Carnitas

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Begin by trimming any excess fat from your beef roast. Cut the beef into 3-inch chunks to ensure even cooking. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture since too much fat can make the carnitas greasy rather than succulent.

Step 2: Season the Meat

In a large bowl, combine the cumin, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Rub this fragrant mixture all over the beef pieces, ensuring each chunk is generously coated with spice.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your carnitas.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the seasoned beef, the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, bay leaves, and orange juice into your slow cooker. Pour the Dr. Pepper over the top, ensuring that the beef is well submerged. The carbonation in the soda helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Pork

Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The low-and-slow method will yield the best results, allowing the meat to become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 6: Prepare for Crispiness

Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use two forks to shred the meat apart. Before moving on to the next step, make sure to remove the bay leaves.

Step 7: Crisp the Carnitas

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the shredded beef in an even layer on the baking sheet. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges of the meat become crispy and golden brown. This final step is key to achieving that crave-worthy crispy texture.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the carnitas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve your crispy carnitas in tacos, burritos, or alongside rice and beans. Don’t forget to top with your favorite garnishes such as fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Expert Tips

For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the beef in the spice mixture overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the spice mixture.
Don’t skip the roasting step! That’s what gives the carnitas their delightful crispy edge.
Using a sweet soda like Dr. Pepper enhances the caramelization process—don’t worry, it won’t taste soda-like in the end.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to use a different type of soda, such as root beer or cola, for varying flavor profiles.
For a citrus twist, add lime or lemon juice along with the orange juice.
Experiment with different spices such as smoked paprika or oregano to customize the flavor to your liking.
Add more vegetables like diced bell peppers or carrots to the slow cooker for added nutrition.

How to Store Leftovers

Slow Cooker Crispy Carnitas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the shredded carnitas in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ

Can I use other cuts of beef for carnitas?

Absolutely! While beef shoulder is the most commonly used cut, you can also use beef butt or even beef loin. Just keep in mind that leaner cuts may not get as tender as those with more fat.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can braise the beef in a Dutch oven on the stove or in the oven at a low temperature for several hours, just like you would in the slow cooker.

Can I make crockpot carnitas ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the carnitas a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture before serving.

What can I serve with carnitas?

Carnitas are incredibly versatile! Serve them in tacos, burritos, or enchiladas, or enjoy them as a protein option in salads or rice bowls. Pair them with fresh salsa, guacamole, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Crispy Carnitas are a delightful way to experience the robust flavors of Mexican cuisine without spending all day in the kitchen. With just a few key ingredients and the magic of a slow cooker, you can enjoy tender, flavorful meat that’s crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor. Whether you serve it for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to dig into a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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