Pulled Pork Enchiladas (Pork Carnitas) are a mouthwatering combination of tender, slow-cooked pork wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a rich enchilada sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal for family dinners or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this recipe delivers bold flavors and irresistible textures.
Why You’ll Love Pulled Pork Enchiladas (Pork Carnitas)
- Rich & Smoky Flavor – The slow-cooked pork carnitas create a deep, savory taste that blends beautifully with enchilada sauce.
- Perfect for Leftovers – This dish is a great way to use up leftover pulled pork and transform it into a delicious meal.
- Customizable – You can add extra toppings, adjust spice levels, or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
- Easy to Make Ahead – Assemble the enchiladas in advance and bake them when ready for a hassle-free meal.
Different Types of Recipes Using Pulled Pork Enchiladas (Pork Carnitas)
- Classic Pulled Pork Enchiladas – Traditional style with red enchilada sauce and melted cheese.
- Green Chile Pork Enchiladas – Uses tangy green enchilada sauce for a zestier flavor.
- Creamy White Sauce Enchiladas – Features a rich, cheesy white sauce instead of tomato-based sauce.
- Spicy Chipotle Pork Enchiladas – Infused with chipotle peppers for a smoky heat.
- BBQ Pulled Pork Enchiladas – A fusion twist with sweet and tangy barbecue sauce.
- Low-Carb Pulled Pork Enchiladas – Uses low-carb tortillas for a keto-friendly option.
- Breakfast Pork Enchiladas – Includes scrambled eggs and cheese for a morning twist.
- Pulled Pork Enchilada Casserole – A layered version for easy baking and serving.
- Tex-Mex Pulled Pork Enchiladas – Includes black beans, corn, and jalapeños for a southwestern touch.
- Vegetable-Loaded Pulled Pork Enchiladas – Packed with bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
Tips for Making the Best Pulled Pork Enchiladas
- Use Fresh Tortillas – Warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Slow Cook the Pork – The longer the pork simmers, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
- Choose the Right Sauce – Red, green, or white sauce can change the entire flavor profile.
- Don’t Overfill – Keep a moderate amount of filling in each tortilla to avoid spills.
- Bake Covered – Cover with foil for the first part of baking to keep the enchiladas from drying out.
Pulled Pork Enchiladas (Pork Carnitas) Recipe
Pulled Pork Enchiladas – A Mexican Delight
Course: Snacks4
servings30
minutes40
minutes1
hour10
minutesIngredients
- For the Pork Carnitas:
2 lbs pork shoulder (boneless)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon chili powder
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Enchiladas:
10 small flour or corn tortillas
2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green)
1 avocado, sliced (optional)
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
1 small red onion, diced
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
½ cup sour cream (for topping)
1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
How to Make Pulled Pork Enchiladas (Pork Carnitas)
- Step 1: Prepare the Pork Carnitas
In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.
Rub the seasoning all over the pork shoulder.
Heat olive oil in a large pot or slow cooker and sear the pork on all sides.
Add chicken broth and lime juice, then cover and cook: Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then let pressure release naturally.
Oven: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours until tender.
Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks. - Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Warm tortillas slightly to make them flexible.
Spread ½ cup enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Fill each tortilla with pulled pork and a sprinkle of cheese, then roll them tightly.
Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese. - Step 3: Bake the Enchiladas
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving. - Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top with sour cream, cilantro, red onion, jalapeños, and avocado slices.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
Recipe Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble the enchiladas a day in advance and store them in the fridge until baking.
- Freezing: Freeze the enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Topping Ideas: Try adding black olives, diced tomatoes, or extra hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Meat Alternatives: Use shredded chicken or beef as a variation.
- Tortilla Choices: Flour tortillas make softer enchiladas, while corn tortillas provide a more traditional taste.
This Pulled Pork Enchiladas (Pork Carnitas) recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal or a festive gathering, its bold flavors and easy preparation make it a go-to favorite. Enjoy!
