Name: Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3.5 lbs. boneless pork shoulder cut into 2-inch chunks; 1 medium white onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup fresh orange juice (2-3 oranges); 2 limes, juiced; 1/4 cup chicken broth (or any broth or water); 2 Tbsp. chili powder; 1 Tbsp. ground cumin; 1 Tbsp. ground oregano; 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika; 1 Tbsp. salt; 1 tsp. pepper; 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper; 18 white corn tortillas; 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 3/4 cup 0% nonfat Greek yogurt (e.g., Fage); 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust for heat preference); 1 Tbsp. adobo sauce (from the can of peppers); 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp. ground cumin; 1/4 tsp. salt; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; Fresh chopped cilantro

If you're craving something hearty, flavorful, and irresistibly crispy, you're in the right place. This Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe combines tender, juicy pork with a zesty spice blend and a final broil that brings out the perfect crunch every time. Trust me, these tacos will become your new taco night favorite.

Inside a shiny black cooking pot with a silver rim, there are two bright green lime halves positioned at the top and right sides. Four whole bright orange tangerines with smooth, slightly shiny skin rest around and on top of two pieces of browned, seasoned meat with a textured surface at the bottom. The pot stands on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made carnitas plenty of ways, but cooking them in the Instant Pot then crisping up the shredded pork under the broiler is a game changer. It’s quick, easy, and delivers on that authentic texture we all crave.

Fast and easy preparation: The Instant Pot does most of the work in just 45 minutes under high pressure, saving you tons of time.
Perfect balance of flavors: Citrus juices and a blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give it brightness and depth.
Crispy finish: Broiling the shredded pork adds that signature crispiness that makes these tacos irresistible.
Versatile and customizable: From cheesy corn tortillas to tangy chipotle sauce, you can tweak to your heart’s content.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you dive in, let's talk ingredients. Most of these are staples you might already have, but fresh orange juice and quality pork shoulder really elevate the dish. Here's what you'll need and why each is a key player.

Flat lay of fresh boneless pork shoulder chunks, a medium white onion halved to show the crisp interior, four peeled garlic cloves, two whole bright oranges beside a small white ceramic bowl filled with fresh orange juice, two whole green limes next to a small white bowl with fresh lime juice, a small white bowl of clear chicken broth, a small white bowl containing a vibrant chili powder blend with chili powder, ground cumin, ground oregano, smoked paprika, coarse salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, eighteen white corn tortillas stacked neatly, a small mound of shredded bright orange cheddar cheese, a small white bowl of creamy white Greek yogurt, two whole dark red chipotle peppers laid by a tiny white bowl of deep red adobo sauce, one whole peeled garlic clove, a small white bowl with ground cumin spice, a small white bowl of fine salt, a small pile of fresh chopped green cilantro leaves all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Boneless pork shoulder: This cut’s marbling breaks down beautifully under pressure cooking, making your carnitas tender and juicy.
White onion: Adds subtle sweetness and a savory base to the pot as it cooks.
Garlic: A must-have for that classic aromatic kick in any Mexican-inspired dish.
Fresh orange juice: Brings bright citrus notes and natural sweetness that balance the spices.
Lime juice: Lends freshness and acidity, heightening all the flavors.
Chicken broth: Keeps the pork moist and adds a little depth to the cooking liquid.
Chili powder: The cornerstone spice providing warmth and complexity.
Ground cumin: Offers that earthy, slightly smoky tone that pairs perfectly with pork.
Oregano: Adds herbaceous warmth for a well-rounded profile.
Smoked paprika: Injects a mild smokiness that mimics traditional carnitas cooked over coals.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavors evenly.
Cayenne pepper: Adds just the right touch of heat without overpowering the dish.
White corn tortillas: Their delicate flavor and texture are just right for holding the pork and cheese without overwhelming it.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and brings creamy richness to every bite.
Greek yogurt: Forms a creamy base for the chipotle sauce, keeping it light but flavorful.
Chipotle peppers in adobo: The smoky heat is crucial for that signature sauce that ties everything together.
Adobo sauce: Concentrated flavor that enhances the chipotle peppers in the sauce.
Fresh cilantro: A fresh, bright finish that brightens up your tacos perfectly.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The wonderful thing about this Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe is how flexible it is. Whether you want to spice it up, lighten it up, or customize your toppings, it’s easy to make it uniquely yours!

Vegetarian Variation: Try substituting jackfruit or shredded hearts of palm for pork to keep the same texture and tang with a plant-based twist. I've made this substitution for family gatherings, and everyone loved the carnitas flavor packed into the veggies.
Lower Fat Option: Omit the shredded cheese and opt for low-fat Greek yogurt in the chipotle sauce to reduce calories without losing creaminess.
Extra Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the spice mixture before pressure cooking. This enhances that deep carnitas essence beautifully.
Seasonal Freshness: In warmer months, add diced mango or pineapple on top for a juicy, sweet counterpoint — it’s like summer on a taco!
Heat Lovers’ Edition: Use 2 chipotle peppers or add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce and spice mix for a real kick.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe

Three white soft tortillas lie flat on a white marbled surface, each topped with shredded brownish cooked meat showing slight caramelized edges, bright yellow pineapple chunks, small diced red onions, and fresh green cilantro sprinkled on top. To the right, a small clear glass bowl holds the same pineapple salsa mix. Below the tortillas, two green lime wedges with white edges rest on the surface. The colors are fresh and vibrant, set against a clean bright background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Mix Your Perfect Spice Blend

Start by combining chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. This aromatic blend is the heart of your carnitas, delivering bold and smoky flavors. Give it a good mix so every bite sings with spice — trust me, this little step makes a big difference!

Step 2: Layer Your Instant Pot

Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the Instant Pot. This base builds flavor and keeps the pork from sticking. Next, add the pork shoulder chunks right on top. Sprinkle your spice blend evenly over the pork, then pour in fresh orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth. The citrus juices add brightness and help tenderize the meat for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Pressure Cook to Tender Perfection

Seal the lid and set your valve to “sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting, and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. This step transforms the pork into juicy, flavorful carnitas quickly and effortlessly. After the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes—this helps keep the meat tender and juicy.

Step 4: Shred & Prep for Extra Crispiness

Carefully turn the valve to “venting” to release any remaining pressure, then open the lid. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pork to a baking sheet. Grab two forks and gently shred the meat—this part is so satisfying, watching the tender pork pull apart in perfect strands. Now, spread the shredded carnitas evenly, ready for that irresistible crispy finish.

Step 5: Broil to Crispy, Flavor-Packed Goodness

Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the shredded pork under the broiler for 5 to 7 minutes until it develops delicious crispy edges. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn! If you prefer, you can crisp the carnitas in a hot pan with a bit of cooking spray, turning batches to get that perfect crunch. This contrast between tender inside and crispy outside is pure taco magic.

Step 6: Craft Your Crispy Cheesy Tacos

Heat a skillet over medium heat and spray it lightly with cooking spray. Using tongs, briefly dip each corn tortilla into the flavorful sauce left in the Instant Pot — this adds moisture and flavor to the tortillas. Place the soaked tortilla on the skillet, add about 2 ounces of the crispy pork, and sprinkle 14 grams of shredded cheddar cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until both sides are golden and the cheese is melted. Repeat this step for all 18 tortillas; each bite is worth the effort!

Step 7: Whip Up the Smoky Chipotle Sauce

While your pork is cooking, combine Greek yogurt, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and freshly cracked pepper in a bowl. Stir it all together until silky smooth. Cover and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let those smoky, spicy flavors meld beautifully. This sauce ties all the taco elements together like a deliciously creamy hug.

Step 8: Assemble and Savor Every Bite

Serve your crispy cheesy carnitas tacos hot, topped with a drizzle of the chipotle sauce and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro. The contrast of textures and flavors—from the tender, crispy pork to the sharp cheddar and smoky sauce—is absolutely addictive. Enjoy your taco night elevated with this incredible Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe!

Top Tip

These tips come from hands-on experience and can really elevate your Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe. They help ensure your pork is both tender inside and perfectly crisped outside for that irresistible taco bite.

Use fresh citrus juices: Freshly squeezed orange and lime juice brighten the pork’s flavor far more than bottled juice ever could.
Broil for that perfect crisp: Don’t skip the broiling step! Shredding the pork right out of the Instant Pot is tempting but a quick 5-7 minute broil crisps the edges wonderfully.
Dip tortillas in cooking liquid: Briefly dipping tortillas in the flavorful Instant Pot liquid before crisping adds extra juiciness and a subtle tang.
Be patient with pressure release: Allow a natural 15-minute pressure release to keep your pork moist and tender instead of rushing it.

How to Serve Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe

Three soft white tortillas are filled with shredded cooked meat, placed side by side on a white marbled surface. Each tortilla holds a generous layer of light brown shredded meat with slight char marks, topped with small bright yellow pineapple cubes, small pieces of green herbs, and tiny bits of purple onion. The tacos are open, with the fillings visible, showing a colorful mix of warm and fresh ingredients. Small green herbs are scattered lightly around the tacos on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

To complement the vibrant flavors, fresh chopped cilantro is a must—its herbaceous brightness cuts through the richness. You can also add thinly sliced radishes for crunch, a squeeze of extra lime, or diced red onions for a punch of sharpness. A dollop of the creamy chipotle sauce ties everything together beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair these tacos with classic Mexican sides like Mexican street corn (elote), cilantro-lime rice, or a refreshing jicama slaw. For something lighter, a simple avocado and tomato salad or black beans simmered with garlic and spices are wonderful additions that balance out the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep the pork moist and flavorful, be sure to add some of the cooking liquid from the Instant Pot—it acts like a little magic moisture boost.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, place the shredded pork along with a splash of leftover broth in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the carnitas gently in a skillet over medium heat with a little cooking spray or oil to revive the crispy edges. You can also warm them in the oven on a baking sheet at 350°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pork soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this recipe with a different cut of pork?

While pork shoulder is ideal because of its fat content and tenderness, you can use pork butt as a substitute. Just avoid lean cuts like pork loin, which can dry out under pressure cooking.

How spicy is the chipotle sauce?

The chipotle sauce has a smoky heat that you can easily adjust by using between 1 and 2 chipotle peppers in adobo. Start with 1 pepper if you prefer milder heat and add more to taste.

Can I skip the broiling step for the pork?

You could, but broiling or pan-crisping gives the carnitas the signature crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat, making your tacos extra delicious.

What’s the best way to reheat the tacos themselves?

For best results, reheat the assembled tacos in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side until the cheese melts and the tortilla crisps back up. You can also use a toaster oven set to 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Making this Crispy Instant Pot Carnitas Tacos Recipe became one of my favorite ways to enjoy Mexican flavors without the fuss. The pressure cooker does the heavy lifting, while that broiling step transforms the pork into something truly special. Serve these tacos with your favorite toppings and sides, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknights or any relaxed gathering.