Perfect Instant Pot Carnitas Recipe: Tender, Juicy, and Flavorful
As a homeschooling mom of four, I know how important it is to serve meals that are both delicious and easy to make. That’s why I love this Instant Pot carnitas recipe—it’s full of flavor, comes together quickly, and is a total crowd-pleaser for my whole family. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a weekend dinner, these carnitas are a go-to when I want something comforting but still balanced.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This carnitas recipe is perfect for busy moms who need to get dinner on the table fast but don’t want to compromise on taste. The pork is tender, juicy, and has just the right amount of crispiness after a quick broil. Plus, using the Instant Pot means I can focus on helping with homework or getting the kids ready for their next activity while dinner practically cooks itself!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless pork shoulder, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 tablespoon chipotle powder
- 1/2 tablespoon pepper
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken or beef broth
Instructions
Pat the pork shoulder dry and rub it all over with cumin, salt, chipotle powder, and pepper. Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and sear the pork until browned on all sides.
Add the sliced onions, garlic, tomato sauce, and broth to the pot. Close the lid, set to “Manual” mode, and cook on high pressure for 50 minutes. Once done, let the Instant Pot naturally release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
Remove the pork, shred it with two forks, and broil it on a baking sheet with some of the cooking broth for 5-7 minutes to get those crispy, caramelized edges.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Moms
- It’s Quick: The Instant Pot cuts down cooking time, so you can have a flavorful dinner on the table in under an hour.
- Family-Friendly: My kids love building their own tacos with these tender carnitas, and I love that it’s an easy, nutritious meal.
- Versatile: Carnitas work great for tacos, burrito bowls, or even over a salad for a lighter option.
- Minimal Prep: With just a few simple ingredients and the Instant Pot doing the heavy lifting, this recipe is stress-free.
Pro Tips for Busy Moms
- Marinate Overnight: If you have time, rub the spices on the pork the night before and store it in the fridge for even more flavor.
- Double the Batch: Cook extra carnitas and freeze them for a quick dinner later. Just reheat in the oven for a quick meal.
- Taco Bar Fun: Let the kids set up a DIY taco bar with toppings like avocado, cilantro, and salsa for a fun, interactive dinner.
A Weeknight Win
As a mom, I’m always looking for meals that balance nutrition, flavor, and convenience—and these Instant Pot carnitas check all the boxes. They’re so versatile and family-friendly, making them a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Plus, when the kids ask for seconds, you know you’ve hit the jackpot!
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