Go Back
+ servings
slow cooker pork butt being lifted with tongs
Print

Slow Cooker Carnitas

Pulled pork couldn’t get easier with this slow cooker version. Season it up and let it cook. Then shred it and serve it with your favorite side dishes or make it into tacos or sandwiches!
Course dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Servings 8
Calories 350kcal

Equipment

  • slow cooker

Ingredients

  • 2 onions halved
  • 4 lb boneless pork butt or 5 lb bone-in
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chiote annato seeds
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Mexican oregano
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • Cut the onions in half and lay cut side down in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • Combine brown sugar and the seasonings and coat the outside of the pork well, making sure to press on well.
  • Place the pork over the onions, fat side on top.
  • Set slow cooker on high for 4 hours, or low for 8.  
  • Check pork butt after 4 hours.  If the meat can be pulled apart with a fork, it is done.
  • Remove the pork butt and shred with 2 forks or by hand.  Remove the onions and reserve 2 cups of the drippings.
  • Combine the pork and the reserved drippings in a bowl and serve as desired.

Notes

While I highly recommend using the Achiote in this recipe, you can leave it out.  It will be slightly different, but it will still be very delicious.
Check on the meat after 4 hours on high.  If it begins to pull apart easily, it is done and shouldn’t be cooked any longer.  This will keep it from drying out.
Leftovers:
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Store in a ziplock bag or container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 43g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 136mg | Sodium: 1041mg | Potassium: 886mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 432IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 64mg | Iron: 4mg