These Crispy Beer Braised Carnitas are the ultimate way to bring taco night to the next level.
Tender pork shoulder is slow-cooked in a flavorful bath of chipotle, citrus, and beer, then shredded and crisped under the broiler for that irresistible texture.
Whether you’re filling tacos, piling them into bowls, or serving them on sliders, this slow cooker pork carnitas recipe is bold, juicy, and so easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super tender pork – Slow-cooked to fall-apart perfection
Bold, smoky flavor – Thanks to chipotle powder, orange, and beer
Crispy edges – Finished in the oven for that signature carnitas texture
Hands-off cooking – Let your slow cooker do the work
Perfect for tacos, bowls, or burritos – So versatile
Great for meal prep – Feeds a crowd and freezes well
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Pork butt (pork shoulder) – Rich, marbled, and ideal for slow cooking
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks
Chipotle chili powder – Smoky heat for classic carnitas flavor
Oregano & cumin – Earthy Mexican spices that build a savory base
Orange zest and juice – Bright citrus balances the spice and richness
Wheat beer – Like Blue Moon, adds malty depth to the braising liquid
Salt – Essential for seasoning the pork and bringing flavors together
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cut the pork into chunks – Helps it cook evenly and shred easily
Use freshly zested orange – Adds aromatic oils and brightness
Don’t skip the broil – It’s what turns tender pork into crispy carnitas
Save the broth – Use it to rehydrate leftovers or drizzle before serving
Cook on low if you have time – More tender and flavorful results
How to Make Crispy Beer Braised Carnitas
Step 1: Prep the Pork
Cut 4 lbs pork butt into 4 equal pieces and place in a large slow cooker.
Top with 1 diced onion, 1 Tbsp chipotle chili powder, 2 tsp oregano, 2 tsp cumin, and 1 tsp salt.
Step 2: Add Citrus and Beer
Zest the entire orange over the pork and spices.
Then juice the orange and pour it into the slow cooker.
Pour in 12 oz Blue Moon or similar wheat beer, slowly to avoid splashing.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, until the pork is very tender and shreds easily with a fork.
Step 4: Shred and Crisp
Preheat your oven to BROIL.
Transfer the pork to a large rimmed sheet pan.
Use two forks to shred the meat evenly across the pan.
Spoon about ¼ cup of the cooking liquid from the crockpot over the shredded pork to keep it moist.
Broil for 5–6 minutes on the middle rack until the edges are browned and crisp.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve immediately in warm tortillas with toppings like queso fresco, cilantro, and red onions.
Or pile into burrito bowls, nachos, or sliders!
What to Serve It With
Corn or flour tortillas – Warm and soft for easy taco wrapping
Pico de gallo or salsa verde – Adds brightness and spice
Guacamole or sliced avocado – Creamy contrast to the crispy pork
Cilantro lime rice – A flavorful side for taco bowls
Mexican street corn (elote) – A bold, cheesy veggie pairing
Variations / Substitutions
Use orange juice – If you don’t have a fresh orange
Swap chipotle powder for smoked paprika – For a milder version
Use chicken broth instead of beer – For an alcohol-free option
Try pork loin – For a leaner cut (note: not as tender as pork butt)
Add jalapenos or garlic – For extra kick and aroma in the crock
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer – Freeze cooled carnitas in a freezer bag for up to 3 months
Reheat – In a skillet over medium-high with a splash of broth to crisp up again
Batch tip – Freeze in portions for easy taco nights
Leftover magic – Use in enchiladas, quesadillas, soups, or breakfast hash
FAQs
Can I make carnitas in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes—braise the pork in a Dutch oven at 300°F for 3–4 hours until tender.
What beer works best for carnitas?
Wheat beers like Blue Moon add mild citrus and depth, but lagers or pale ales also work.
Do I have to use alcohol?
No—you can substitute chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
How do I know the pork is ready?
It should shred easily with a fork. If it resists, give it another 30–60 minutes.
Can I skip the broiling step?
You could, but broiling adds crispy texture—a key element of authentic carnitas.
Is this spicy?
The chipotle chili powder adds a subtle heat, but it’s not overpowering. Adjust to taste.
Can I use this for meal prep?
Absolutely! It reheats well and works in tacos, bowls, and more throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Beer Braised Carnitas are everything you want in a taco filling: juicy, bold, fall-apart tender with just the right amount of crispy edge.
Whether you’re serving them on taco Tuesday or building burrito bowls for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels effortless thanks to your slow cooker—and your oven does the rest.
