Jul 14 2026

Carnitas Mac Recipe

Time3h
Serves6

Make Carnitas Mac Recipe in just 3h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Carnitas

Mac and Cheese

Toppings

Method

Carnitas Preparation

  1. 1

    Season the Pork

    Rub the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, cumin, and oregano. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Cooking Pot

    Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Add garlic cloves, onion (cut into quarters), orange juice, lime juice, and bay leaves.

  3. 3

    Cook the Pork

    Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

  4. 4

    Shred the Pork

    Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the cooker and mix with the juices.

Mac and Cheese Preparation

  1. 5

    Cook the Macaroni

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. 6

    Make the Cheese Sauce

    In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.

  3. 7

    Add the Cheeses

    Reduce heat to low, and stir in the cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

  4. 8

    Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

    Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.

Assembly

  1. 9

    Layer the Dish

    In a large serving dish, layer the mac and cheese with the shredded carnitas on top.

  2. 10

    Garnish

    Top with chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, and lime wedges.

  3. 11

    Serve

    Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Carnitas Mac!

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