Carnitas Burrito Bowls are a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender, slow-cooked pork with a variety of fresh toppings, all served over a bed of rice. This meal captures the essence of a traditional burrito but with a customizable and lighter presentation—perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s an excellent option for meal prepping or serving a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Carnitas Burrito Bowls are the perfect blend of savory, tangy, and fresh. The slow-cooked pork is juicy and seasoned to perfection, while the customizable toppings allow everyone to build a bowl suited to their taste. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals for the week, this recipe delivers on both flavor and convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pork shoulder or pork butt
Olive oil
Orange juice
Lime juice
Garlic cloves
Onion
Cumin
Oregano
Salt
Black pepper
Bay leaves
Cooked white or brown rice
Black beans or pinto beans
Corn kernels (fresh, canned, or grilled)
Fresh cilantro
Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
Sliced jalapeños
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Lime wedges

Directions

Prepare the Carnitas:
Season the pork shoulder with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil until browned on all sides.
Slow-Cook the Pork:
Place the seared pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add orange juice, lime juice, garlic, onion, and bay leaves. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
Shred and Crisp the Meat:
Remove the pork, shred it with two forks, and optionally broil or pan-sear the meat to crisp the edges.
Assemble the Bowls:
Start with a layer of rice in each bowl. Add shredded carnitas, beans, corn, and desired toppings like tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeños, sour cream, and cheese.
Garnish and Serve:
Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people. The total cooking time is about 8 hours and 30 minutes (including 8 hours for slow cooking and 30 minutes for preparation and crisping).

Variations

Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
Spicy Kick: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the slow cooker.
Vegetarian Version: Replace pork with seasoned jackfruit or grilled vegetables.
Grain-Free: Serve the toppings over chopped romaine lettuce instead of rice.
Taco Style: Use the carnitas in taco shells instead of bowls for a different presentation.

storage/reheating

Store leftover carnitas and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat the pork, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals. Assembled bowls are best enjoyed fresh, but components can be reheated and assembled just before serving.

FAQs

How do I make the pork crispy like restaurant-style carnitas?

After shredding, spread the pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5–7 minutes until the edges are crispy. Alternatively, pan-sear in a hot skillet.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook the pork on high pressure for about 60 minutes, then naturally release the pressure before shredding.

Is it necessary to marinate the pork beforehand?

Marination is optional. The long cooking time allows the pork to absorb plenty of flavor during the process.

What’s the best cut of pork for carnitas?

Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) is ideal due to its fat content and tenderness after slow cooking.

Can I freeze the carnitas?

Yes, the shredded carnitas can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What rice works best for burrito bowls?

White rice, brown rice, cilantro-lime rice, or even Spanish rice are excellent choices.

How do I keep the bowl healthy?

Use lean cuts of pork, reduce the amount of cheese and sour cream, and opt for brown rice or cauliflower rice.

Can I use leftover carnitas for other dishes?

Absolutely. Carnitas are great in tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, nachos, or even sandwiches.

What toppings go well with carnitas burrito bowls?

Popular options include avocado, guacamole, salsa, hot sauce, shredded lettuce, or pickled onions.

How do I meal prep this recipe?

Prepare all components separately, store them in individual containers, and assemble just before eating for the freshest taste.

Conclusion

Carnitas Burrito Bowls offer a satisfying and versatile meal that can be customized to fit any taste or dietary preference. With its tender pork, vibrant toppings, and convenient bowl format, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Whether served fresh or reheated, these bowls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.