🖋️ Written by Emma
These Crispy Carnitas Tacos with Roasted Jalapeño Lime Avocado are about to become your go-to favorite. Think: tender shredded beef, perfectly crispy edges, wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with a smoky, zesty avocado mash. They’re comforting, bold, and loaded with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself on taco night, this recipe delivers big taste with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Carnitas Tacos
There are plenty of reasons why these tacos will win your heart:
- ✅ Crispy on the outside, juicy and tender inside
- ✅ That roasted jalapeño lime avocado mash is unforgettable
- ✅ Ready in under an hour
- ✅ Easy to make ahead for busy weeknights
- ✅ Customizable toppings to fit any craving
What You’ll Need – Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring these tacos to life:
• beef shoulder (boneless, around 2 lbs)
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Orange juice
• Cumin, oregano, salt, pepper
• Small corn or flour tortillas
• Ripe avocados
• 1 fresh lime (juice + zest)
• 1–2 jalapeños (for roasting)
• Fresh cilantro (optional garnish)
• Sour cream or Mexican crema (optional)
• Queso fresco or shredded cheese (optional)
How To Make Crispy Carnitas Tacos – Step-by-Step
1. Cook the beef low and slow.
In a large pot, sear your beef shoulder until browned. Add garlic, orange juice, cumin, oregano, and water until the beef is just covered. Simmer on low for 2 hours or until fork-tender.
2. Shred and crisp it.
Once the beef is soft, shred it with forks. Heat a skillet with olive oil and fry the shredded meat until golden and crispy on the edges.
3. Roast the jalapeños.
Cut the jalapeños in half, remove seeds (if less heat desired), and roast under the broiler for 5–6 minutes until charred.
4. Make the avocado mash.
In a bowl, mash the ripe avocados with lime juice, lime zest, and finely chopped roasted jalapeños. Add salt to taste.
5. Assemble the tacos.
Warm your tortillas, pile in the crispy carnitas, top with the jalapeño-lime avocado mash, and finish with cilantro, cheese, or crema if using.
Tips & Flavor Variations
- 💡 Want it spicier? Add a dash of chipotle powder to the beef while cooking.
- 🌱 Going low-carb? Serve the carnitas over lettuce wraps or cauliflower tortillas.
- 🥑 Avocado not ripe? Swap for store-bought guac and add roasted jalapeños for flavor.
- ❄️ Meal prep friendly: Store beef and mash separately, assemble fresh.
- 🧀 Want cheesy goodness? Sprinkle cheese on the tortilla before warming.
Prep Time, Cooking & Servings
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 2 hours 30 minutes | 2 hours 45 minutes | 6 tacos | Medium |
FAQs About Carnitas Tacos
Can I freeze the carnitas?
Yes! Let them cool fully, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet to restore crispiness.
What beef cut works best?
Boneless beef shoulder or Boston butt is ideal—it shreds well and stays juicy.
Can I make the avocado mash in advance?
Absolutely. Just add a little extra lime juice to keep it from browning and store it in the fridge with plastic wrap directly on top.
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