Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

Instant Pot Pork Carnitas — Juicy, Tender, and Crispy in Under 90 Minutes

Craving authentic, melt-in-your-mouth pork carnitas but short on time? This Instant Pot Pork Carnitas recipe delivers tender, flavorful pork that’s perfectly seasoned and finished with irresistibly crispy edges — all made in under 90 minutes.

Q&A: PORK CARNITAS TIPS

Q: What makes these pork carnitas so flavorful?
A: Cooking the pork in the Instant Pot with citrus juice, onions, garlic, and spices infuses it with bold, authentic flavor in a fraction of the time.

Q: Can I make pork carnitas ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Shred the pork, store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, then crisp it under the broiler just before serving.

Q: How do I get crispy edges like restaurant-style carnitas?
A: Spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet, drizzle with a bit of the cooking liquid, and broil for 5–7 minutes until crispy.

Jump to:

• Instant Pot Pork Carnitas — Juicy, Tender, and Crispy in Under 90 Minutes
• Q&A: PORK CARNITAS TIPS
• Table of contents
• Why Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Are a Weeknight Game-Changer
• The Flavor Profile That Makes These Carnitas So Irresistible
• Getting the Perfect Crispy Edges Every Time
• How to Serve Instant Pot Pork Carnitas: Endless Versatility
• Storage, Meal Prep, and Reheating Tips for Busy Families
• 📋 Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Recipe
• Ingredients needed to make Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
• How to Make Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Video
• Instructions for making Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
• How to Make the Most Delicious Carnitas Video
• Variations for Instant Pot Pork Carnitas: Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish
• Equipment
• How to Store Instant Pot Pork Carnitas: Easy Tips for Keeping It Fresh
• Related
• Pairing
• Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

Whether you’re feeding a busy family weeknight or hosting a taco party, these carnitas are sure to become a go-to favorite.

These carnitas are especially delicious when served with fresh toppings like Homemade Healthy Pico de Gallo, Spicy Avocado Guacamole with Chipotle and Poblano, or tangy Pickled Jalapeño Peppers & Red Onion.

With just simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you’ll have restaurant-quality carnitas right at home.

Why Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Are a Weeknight Game-Changer

Traditionally, pork carnitas require hours of slow cooking to get that tender, juicy texture. The Instant Pot cuts that cooking time drastically, pressure cooking the pork until it’s fall-apart tender in a fraction of the time.

This means less waiting and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones. Plus, the sealed cooking environment keeps all those delicious juices locked in, ensuring maximum flavor with minimal effort.

If you’re juggling a busy schedule but still want a flavorful homemade meal, this recipe is your secret weapon.

The Flavor Profile That Makes These Carnitas So Irresistible

The magic is in the blend of fresh citrus juices — orange and lime — combined with warm, smoky spices like cumin, oregano, chili powder, and smoked paprika. The citrus not only tenderizes the pork but adds a bright, tangy balance that complements the savory richness of the meat.

Add a touch of garlic and onion, and you’ve got a depth of flavor that’s truly mouthwatering.

These carnitas hit all the right notes: tangy, smoky, and just a little spicy, making every bite a flavor-packed experience.

Getting the Perfect Crispy Edges Every Time

The pressure cooker does the heavy lifting to get your pork tender, but what really elevates this recipe is the final broil.

After shredding the pork, spreading it on a baking sheet and broiling it crisps the edges beautifully, recreating that iconic carnitas texture — tender inside with caramelized, crispy bits on the outside.

It’s an easy step that makes all the difference, turning a simple pressure-cooked pork into a dish worthy of taco trucks and restaurants alike.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pork Carnitas: Endless Versatility

Serve these carnitas in warm tortillas and top them with Homemade Healthy Pico de Gallo, creamy Spicy Avocado Guacamole with Chipotle and Poblano, or bright Pico de Gallo with Cucumbers for a refreshing twist.

They also make fantastic meal prep — portion leftovers into containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Pair with classic toppings like fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for a vibrant, fresh finish every time.

For extra crunch and brightness, try adding Pickled Jalapeño Peppers & Red Onion or a handful of Red Cabbage and Carrot Salad with Zesty Lemon Tahini Dressing.

Storage, Meal Prep, and Reheating Tips for Busy Families

One of the best things about carnitas is how well they keep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.

When reheating, add a splash of reserved cooking liquid or broth to keep the pork moist, and consider reheating in a skillet or under the broiler to revive that crispiness.

For a lighter meal, serve leftover carnitas over a bowl of Crunchy Broccoli Slaw or alongside a crisp cabbage salad.

This makes the recipe perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy flavorful, homemade carnitas even on your busiest days.

📋 Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes + 20-25 minutes natural pressure release
Broil Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Jump to:

• Instant Pot Pork Carnitas — Juicy, Tender, and Crispy in Under 90 Minutes
• Q&A: PORK CARNITAS TIPS
• Table of contents
• Why Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Are a Weeknight Game-Changer
• The Flavor Profile That Makes These Carnitas So Irresistible
• Getting the Perfect Crispy Edges Every Time
• How to Serve Instant Pot Pork Carnitas: Endless Versatility
• Storage, Meal Prep, and Reheating Tips for Busy Families
• 📋 Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Recipe
• Ingredients needed to make Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
• How to Make Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Video
• Instructions for making Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
• How to Make the Most Delicious Carnitas Video
• Variations for Instant Pot Pork Carnitas: Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish
• Equipment
• How to Store Instant Pot Pork Carnitas: Easy Tips for Keeping It Fresh
• Related
• Pairing
• Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

Ingredients needed to make Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

• ¾ c. chicken broth, preferably organic
• ¾ c. fresh orange juice (approximately 2 large oranges)
• 3 T. lime juice
• 1 T. chili powder
• ½ t. smoked paprika
• 1 t. dried Mexican oregano
• 1 t. ground cumin
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2-3 T. extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 3½ - 4 lbs. pork shoulder roast, trimmed and cut into 6-8 chunks
• 1 medium red onion, diced
• 1 medium jalapeno, diced
• 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, peeled and chopped

How to Make Instant Pot Pork Carnitas Video

Instructions for making Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, fresh orange juice, and lime juice with the chili powder, smoked paprika, Mexican oregano, and ground cumin. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and set aside.
   
   
2. Push the “Sauté” button on Instant Pot. Once the display reads “On,” add 1 tablespoon olive oil and half the pork shoulder pieces to the container. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and cook until pork is browned on all sides, approximately 1-2 minutes per side.
   
   Note: DO NOT use lid while using the “Sauté” function on an Instant Pot!
   
3. Once browned, transfer seared pork to a plate and repeat this process with additional olive oil and the rest of pork. Remove browned pork from the Instant Pot and set aside.
   
4. *Optional Step: Add remaining tablespoon olive oil to the container, along with red onion, jalapeno, and fresh garlic. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
   
5. Add browned pork back to the pot and pour chicken broth/orange juice mixture over top. Add lid and seal, making sure the steam release handle is positioned toward “Sealing.” 
   
6. Press the “Manual” button and set the time to 30 minutes at high pressure. Once the cooking time is up, allow 20-25 minutes for the “natural release” of the steam inside the Instant Pot. After that time, perform a manual “quick release” to vent any remaining steam to release lid, if necessary.
   
7. A few minutes before the steam is fully released, preheat oven broiler to high and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Transfer pork to the prepared baking sheet and gently shred with two forks. Drizzle with ¼ cup juices from the Instant Pot and toss to combine before spreading into a thin, even layer.
   
8. Place pork under broiler for 4-5 minutes, then remove from oven and add a little more juice before turning the meat to brown the other side. Place back under broiler for another 4-5 minutes or until the pork is nice and crispy on the edges.
   
9. Once the pork is under the broiler, press “Sauté” on the Instant Pot to reduce the cooking liquid by one-half while the pork is broiling.
   

When finished broiling, remove the baking sheet from oven and serve immediately with the reduced cooking liquid, fresh lime wedges, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy!

How to Make the Most Delicious Carnitas Video

Variations for Instant Pot Pork Carnitas: Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish

Looking to put a unique twist on classic Instant Pot Pork Carnitas? This versatile recipe is a perfect base for experimenting with flavors! Here are some simple variations to elevate your carnitas and keep dinner exciting:

• Add extra spices: Boost the flavor with additional chili powder, smoked paprika, or onion powder for a richer, smoky taste.
• Herb infusion: Stir in fresh or dried herbs like oregano, rosemary, or thyme to add an aromatic touch that complements the pork beautifully.
• Spice it up: Toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that adds heat without overpowering the dish.
• Citrus boost: Swap or add grapefruit or lime juice for a different citrus twist that brightens the flavors.
• Sweet notes: For a subtle sweetness, add a splash of pineapple juice or a drizzle of honey to balance the savory spices.

With these easy-to-make variations, your Instant Pot Pork Carnitas can adapt to any flavor profile — from mild and savory to bold and spicy. Don’t be afraid to get creative and discover your family’s favorite version!

Equipment

Instant Pot

How to Store Instant Pot Pork Carnitas: Easy Tips for Keeping It Fresh

Making dinner shouldn’t be complicated — and storing your Instant Pot Pork Carnitas is just as simple. This flavorful dish is perfect for meal prep and easy storage, helping you save time on busy days.

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store cooked carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

• Freeze for longer storage: If you want to keep carnitas on hand for weeks, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

• Safe and convenient: Proper storage prevents spoilage and maintains the pork’s juicy texture, so you can enjoy tasty carnitas anytime without worry.

• Reheating tip: Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or oven, adding a splash of broth or cooking juices to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

With these simple storage tips, you can enjoy Instant Pot Pork Carnitas any night of the week — without the hassle!

Top Tip for Perfect Instant Pot Pork Carnitas

For the best flavor, prep your ingredients the night before. This allows the spices and juices to meld together, creating a deeper, more vibrant taste.

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• Add taco seasoning or a few extra teaspoons of chili powder to give your carnitas an extra flavor boost.

• The next day, simply add everything to your Instant Pot, set it to high pressure or manual mode, and let it work its magic.

• When cooking is done, finish your carnitas with fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, pico de gallo, or a squeeze of lime for brightness.

• Pair your carnitas with freshly made guacamole or your favorite salsa for a truly delicious, crowd-pleasing meal.

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Following this tip will elevate your pork carnitas and make dinner prep even easier!

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