Crockpot Pork Carnitas Bowls or Lettuce Wraps (High Protein Low Carb Meal Prep)
/These crockpot pork carnitas bowls or lettuce wraps are a high protein, low carb meal prep recipe that’s perfect for busy weeks. Made in the slow cooker with simple ingredients, this recipe delivers tender, flavorful carnitas with minimal effort. It’s ideal for easy weeknight dinners, meal prep lunches, or feeding a family. If you’re looking for a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that supports weight loss and saves time, this one is a must.
Why Crockpot Carnitas Are Perfect for Meal Prep
Crockpot recipes make healthy eating easier because they require very little hands-on time. This carnitas recipe is especially helpful if you want something you can prep once and eat multiple ways.
High protein to keep you full
Low carb and weight loss friendly
Makes a lot of servings
Minimal prep and cleanup
Perfect for lunch or dinner
It’s the kind of recipe that simplifies your routine while still tasting amazing.
Ingredients for Crockpot Pork Carnitas
This recipe uses simple, flavorful ingredients that come together effortlessly in the slow cooker. The combination creates tender, juicy pork with bold seasoning.
Main ingredients:
Pork shoulder or pork butt
Garlic
Onion
Lime juice
Orange juice (optional for flavor balance)
Spices (cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper)
Optional toppings:
Fresh cilantro
Diced onions
Avocado
Salsa
Lime wedges
These ingredients create classic carnitas flavor with very little effort.
How to Make Crockpot Carnitas (Set It & Forget It)
This recipe is designed to be as simple as possible. Once everything is in the crockpot, it does all the work for you.
Instructions:
Place pork shoulder in the crockpot.
Add garlic, onion, lime juice, and spices.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Shred the pork using two forks once it’s tender.
Optional: broil shredded pork for a few minutes for crispy edges.
The result is juicy, flavorful carnitas with minimal effort.
What to Serve with Crockpot Carnitas
This recipe pairs well with a variety of sides depending on your goals.
Low carb options:
Cauliflower rice
Lettuce wraps
Grilled vegetables
Low carb Tortillas
Low Carb Carnitas Bowl Combo:
Cauliflower rice
Crockpot carnitas
Avocado slices
Pickled red onions
Cotija cheese
Cilantro
Salsa + lime juice
Frequently Asked Questions
Is crockpot the same as slow cooker?
Yes—“crockpot” is the most commonly searched term, but both mean the same thing.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep and stores well.
Can I freeze carnitas?
Yes, shredded pork freezes very well for future meals.
These crockpot pork carnitas bowls or lettuce wraps are one of the easiest ways to stay consistent with healthy eating. They’re simple, versatile, and packed with flavor—perfect for meal prep or easy dinners.
Once you make this, it’s likely to become a regular in your routine.

KETO CARNITAS SLOW COOKER LETTUCE WRAPS
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Season the pork on all sides and place the seasoned pork in your lined slow cooker.
- Add the garlic, chopped onions, orange juice, and lime juice.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- Use two forks to shred the meat. No need to take the pork out of the slow cooker for this step.
- Serve on Bibb lettuce, garnished with cilantro, chopped red onion and sour cream (optional)
Notes
Nutrition Facts are based on 1 oz of Carnita on one piece of bib lettuce. Sour Cream and additional toppings not included. Bib lettuce is usually small so I typically have 3-4 Carnita lettuce wraps as a meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
62Fat
3.1 gNet carbs
1.3 gProtein
7 g
Nutritional information is provided and I keep it as accurate as possible. Keep in mind nutrition facts on all ingredients may vary depending on the different brands you may use. Consult your doctor before adding any new foods or supplements to your diet and read our full Terms and Conditions
