21 Day Fix Pork Carnitas

My Simple, Delicious Crock-Pot Pork Carnitas

As a busy mom, finding time to cook delicious, healthy meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. Weeknights are a blur of homework help, soccer practice, and the ever-present question of "What's for dinner?" That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes. They're my secret weapon for flavorful meals without the fuss. This Crock-Pot Pork Carnitas recipe is a perfect example – minimal effort, maximum flavor. It's become a family favorite, and I’m excited to share it with you.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by evening, you have a tender, juicy, flavorful pork that’s ready to be shredded and served. I love how versatile it is too. You can use it for tacos, burritos, salads, or even just serve it on its own with a side of rice and beans. The possibilities are endless! I often adapt this recipe based on what's in my pantry and what my family is craving – sometimes I add extra spices, other times I use different types of salsa. The core elements remain the same: lean pork tenderloin, onions, and a good dose of flavor from chili powder, cayenne pepper and salsa.

This recipe is not just about convenience; it’s about healthy eating, too. I always try to find the leanest pork tenderloin I can, which helps keep the overall fat content lower. The addition of vegetables, like onions, adds nutrients and balances the richness of the pork. I also prioritize choosing salsas with fewer added ingredients and sugars, focusing on those with natural flavors. A good tip is to check the ingredient list on your salsa – the shorter the list, the better! The combination of rich, savory flavors and the ease of preparation makes this recipe a perfect fit for busy lifestyles. It’s become my go-to meal when I need something quick, satisfying, and healthy for my family.

Beyond the practicality and health benefits, this carnitas recipe is all about making simple, delicious memories. The aroma of slow-cooked pork filling the kitchen always brings a sense of warmth and comfort. It’s a meal that's easy enough for a weeknight dinner and special enough for a weekend gathering. It's also perfect for prepping ahead, which means I can dedicate less time cooking on already busy days. I can prep it on the weekend and have a ready-made meal that awaits. Overall, this recipe embodies the essence of smart, healthy, and delicious cooking, and that's why it's become a staple in my kitchen.

So, if you’re looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal, give these crock-pot pork carnitas a try. You won’t be disappointed. The tender, flavorful pork is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the simple preparation makes it ideal for busy individuals or families. Enjoy the process of creating something delicious and healthy for yourself and your loved ones; it’s as rewarding as the final dish itself. Remember to adapt the recipe to your tastes – experimentation is half the fun! Let me know how yours turn out!

Ingredients You'll Need:

• Pork tenderloin (leanest you can find)
• 2 onions
• 1 can Rotel
• 1 bottle green chile salsa (look for less ingredients)
• 2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bay leaves

Serving Suggestions:

• Warm flour or corn tortillas
• Diced onions
• Sour cream

Step-by-step

• Slice one onion into thick slices and line the bottom of your crock pot with them.
• Dice the other onion and set aside for a topping.
• Place pork tenderloin on top of the onions and sprinkle your spices (and place bay leaves) on the pork.
• Pour 1/2 bottle of salsa, entire can of Rotel, and diced onions on and around pork.
• Cook on low for 5-8 hours, depending on the size of your tenderloin.
• Pull pork out and shred it, then add it back into the crockpot.
• Serve with the rest of the bottle of green chile salsa, warm flour or corn tortillas, diced onions, and sour cream.