Slow Cooker Pork Burritos (Detailed Version)
These Slow Cooker Pork Burritos are packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. The pork is slow-cooked to perfection, making it easy to shred, and the burritos are customizable with your favorite toppings. The recipe is simple but results in a hearty and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds of pork (shoulder, butt, or loin)
- Pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal because it becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked. If you’re using pork loin, be mindful that it can dry out a little more easily, so it’s best to check it around the 6-hour mark.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- Choose the spice level that suits your family’s taste. You can use mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce depending on how much heat you want in the burritos.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- For added flavor in the cooking liquid.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Adds depth and a slight earthiness to the dish.
- Salt and pepper
- Season to taste.
- Tortillas (flour or corn, your choice)
- Flour tortillas are typically used for burritos, but corn tortillas work too, depending on your preference.
- Optional fillings:
- Rice (Mexican or white rice)
- Refried beans or black beans
- Chopped onions
- Chopped cilantro
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or Monterey Jack)
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Toppings:
- Shredded cheese (for melting on top of the burritos)
- Extra enchilada sauce (for drizzling)
- Lettuce or tomato (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork:
- Trim the fat from the pork if needed, but leaving a bit of fat will help keep the meat moist while it cooks.
- Slow Cook the Pork:
- Place the pork in the slow cooker.
- Pour the enchilada sauce over the pork.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin over the sauce and pork. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Tip: Check the pork around the 6-hour mark if using a leaner cut (like pork loin) to avoid overcooking.
- Shred the Pork:
- Once the pork is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the slow cooker using a slotted spoon or tongs. Let it cool slightly.
- Shred the pork using a hand-held mixer (this is a quick method) or two forks.
- Optional: While shredding, add some of the sauce from the slow cooker to the meat for extra flavor. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Prepare the Burritos:
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for about 20 seconds, so they are soft and pliable.
- Assemble the burritos: Take a tortilla and add a spoonful of shredded pork in the center.
- Add any desired fillings such as rice, beans, onions, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Roll the burrito: Fold the sides of the tortilla in, then roll it up tightly, ensuring the fillings stay inside.
- Bake the Burritos (optional but recommended):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the assembled burritos seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour additional enchilada sauce over the top of the burritos.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve the Burritos:
- Once out of the oven, let the burritos cool slightly.
- Serve with your favorite sides like rice, chips, and salsa. You can also add sour cream, guacamole, or any other toppings you like.
Tips & Variations:
- Extra Heat: For spicier burritos, add chopped jalapeños to the slow cooker, or use a spicier enchilada sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the pork and replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a vegetarian burrito.
- Crispy Burritos: After baking the burritos in the oven, you can crisp them up by placing them under the broiler for a minute or two.
These Slow Cooker Pork Burritos are a simple, flavorful dish that’s great for a family dinner. The pork is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor from the slow cooking, and the addition of cheese, beans, and rice makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.