Slow-Cooker Oaxaca Fajita Pork Carnitas

This slow cooker recipe delivers juicy, citrus-kissed pork with sweet peppers and a rich, melted Oaxaca cheese layer—all with minimal effort. Just layer the ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering, this dish brings vibrant color and deep flavor to the table without hours of hands-on cooking.

A true dump-and-forget meal, these Oaxaca fajita pork carnitas come together in minutes.

Cubed pork shoulder simmers low and slow with bell peppers, red onion, and fresh lime, then gets crowned with a generous blanket of shredded Oaxaca and Mexican four-cheese blend.

The result is a bubbling, cheesy, fork-tender feast that tastes like it took all day to prepare—because it did, but without you standing over the stove.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

The slow cooker provides gentle, even heat that breaks down the collagen in pork shoulder, turning it meltingly tender.

The low-and-slow method also allows the lime juice to infuse the meat without drying it out, while the peppers soften and release their natural sweetness.

The cheese layer acts as a protective cap, trapping steam and flavor inside. As it cooks, the cheese melts and blisters, creating a rich, savory crust that contrasts with the juicy pork. This technique ensures every spoonful is moist, flavorful, and satisfying.

Notes and substitutions

Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is ideal for slow cooking because of its marbling. If using pork loin, reduce cooking time to avoid dryness. Fresh lime juice brightens the dish; bottled works in a pinch but tastes less vibrant.

Oaxaca cheese is a Mexican string cheese that melts beautifully. If unavailable, use mozzarella or Monterey Jack. The Mexican four-cheese blend adds extra creaminess; any good melting cheese will work. Adjust the heat by adding diced jalapeños if desired.

• pork shoulder: pork butt or boneless pork country ribs; cut into 1-inch cubes
• Oaxaca cheese: mozzarella or Monterey Jack; both melt similarly
• Mexican four-cheese blend: any shredded melting cheese like cheddar or Colby Jack
• fresh lime juice: bottled lime juice, though fresh is brighter

Equipment

• Slow cooker (6-quart)
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife
• Measuring spoons
• Serving spoon