Smoky and heartySteak Carnitas Meat in the Crock-Potis one of the best set-it-and-forget-it meals that’s exquisitely flavored and makes some tender and rich tacos.

What’s better than tacos? There isn’t much that I can think of… Maybe my kids and husband and, on a good day, our new puppy. Right below them on my list of favorite things? Tacos. Obviously. Thissteak carnitas in the crockpot recipewill take your taco game to a whole new level, too, so get ready. I could eat these over and over again — they just don’t get old.

Perfectly seasoned with some hearty veggies to beef it up (pun intended), thesesteak carnitasbring some serious flavor to all your favorite Tex-Mex dishes, includingtacosas well as quesadillas,nachos, and big-as-your-face burritos. Plus, this recipe is flexible. For real — I’ve used this method and spice rub on elk steaks, porkchops, and lamb, and it goes well on all the things. Just give it a try for yourself to see what I mean!

Why You’ll Love this Recipe:

Easy- throw it in the crock pot and forget about it!
Flexible-this meat can be used in a variety of entrees
The rub itself can be used on all kinds of meats
Keeps well refrigerated
Will be a hit with everyone

Ingredients:

Flank Steak
Chili Powder
Cumin– or smoked cumin if you have it
Onion Powder
Garlic Powder
Cayenne Pepper– To taste
Salt and Pepper– to taste
Onion
Bell Pepper
Jalapeno

See recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities

Additions and Variations:

For a less spicy dish, take out the jalapeños
You can use different types of onions if you’d like to shake it up
Any color bell peppers will do, so use what you have or what you prefer
Serve with corn or flour tortillas, cheese, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa, or anything else you and your family prefer!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the difference between barbacoa and carnitas?

Barbacoa comes from the same word as barbecue, while carnitas means “little meats”. Barbacoa is often braised meat from a cow head, and carnitas are often made of pork and are fried in their own fat. But my rendition in this recipe uses steak!

How do you make steak carnitas?

Steak carnitas in the slow cooker are easier than you might think. Simply rub the flank steak down with your dry spice rub, place it in the Crock-Pot, cover with additional veggies, and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours. When the time is up, remove the meat from the cooker, shred in a bowl using forks, and serve on tortillas for your tacos, or on top of rice!

Can you make steak carnitas in the Instant Pot?

Yes you can! You’ll want to be sure to add some beef broth so it doesn’t dry out. Use the “sauté” setting for a few minutes before pressure cooking it for about 30 minutes.