Quick and Easy Instant Pot Carnitas: Mexican Pulled Pork in Under 2 Hours

Instant Pot Carnitas: Flavor-Packed Mexican Pulled Pork

Looking for a failproof way to make mouthwatering instant pot carnitas at home? This easy pressure cooker carnitas recipe delivers tender, citrus-infused pork with golden, crispy edges—perfect for tacos, burritos, or nachos.

Why You’ll Love These Instant Pot Carnitas

• Speedy Prep & Cook: Pressure cooking slashes traditional cooking time.
• Citrus Zing: Orange and lime juices brighten every bite.
• Ultimate Crisp: Broiler finish gives that signature crunchy edge.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Carnitas

• 1 (6 pound) pork butt roast, trimmed and cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 bay leaves

How to Make Instant Pot Carnitas

1. Step 1: Prep the Pork Shoulder

   Trim excess fat from the pork butt, then cut into 2-inch cubes and pat dry.

2. Step 2: Brown & Build Flavor

   Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté,” add a splash of oil, then brown pork in batches. Remove meat and set aside. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant, then stir in cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Step 3: Pressure Cook

   Return pork to the pot, pour in orange and lime juices, and tuck in the bay leaves. Seal lid and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. Allow a 15-minute natural release.

4. Step 4: Crisp to Perfection

   Preheat your broiler. Spread the pork on a rimmed baking sheet and broil for about 5 minutes per side, or until edges are golden and crunchy.

Serving Suggestions & Pro Tips

• Load warm corn or flour tortillas with shredded cabbage, salsa verde, and a drizzle of crema.
• Sprinkle fresh cilantro and diced onion on top for authentic Mexican street-taco vibes.
• Make-Ahead: Carnitas freeze beautifully. Reheat under the broiler for a quick weeknight dinner.

Final Word: Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, these instant pot carnitas bring savory, citrusy, tender pork with a perfect crisp every time.

Nutrition per serving: 154 calories; 12 g protein; 11 g fat; 2 g carbs; 1 g sugar; 43 mg cholesterol; 471 mg sodium.