Carnitas Breakfast Recipe with Eggs: A Flavorful Morning Kickstart

Who says carnitas is just for tacos or dinner? This savory, crispy pork dish is the perfect way to jazz up your breakfast routine, especially when paired with eggs. Whether you’re using leftover carnitas or slow-cooking it fresh, the combination of tender, flavorful pork, and fluffy eggs is a match made in breakfast heaven.

And don’t even get us started on the endless possibilities! You can enjoy this dish in so many ways—scrambled eggs with carnitas on the side, a full-on breakfast burrito, or even nestled into a warm tortilla for a delicious handheld breakfast. The fun doesn’t stop there, either. We’ve got a tangy avocado-cilantro crema to take this meal to the next level.

RECIPE CARD(carnitas breakfast recipe with eggs)

Ingredients

For the Carnitas:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder (or any preferred cut for carnitas)
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 orange, halved
• 1 lime, halved
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)

For the Egg Preparation:

• 4 large eggs (adjust according to preference)
• 1 tbsp butter or oil (for frying or scrambling)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for garnish

For the Avocado-Cilantro Crema (Optional):

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 small jalapeño (optional for heat)
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carnitas:

1. Brown the Pork: Start by seasoning your pork shoulder with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and paprika. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork on all sides for about 5-7 minutes to develop a nice crust.
2. Simmer the Carnitas: Add the quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, and the halved orange and lime to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth (or water) until the pork is about halfway submerged. Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Shred the Pork: Once the pork is done cooking, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat. If you want crispy bits of carnitas, return the shredded pork to the pot and cook it on medium heat, uncovered, until it crisps up slightly (about 10 minutes).
4. Optional: If you’re using leftover carnitas, simply reheat the pork in a skillet or in the microwave until heated through.

2. Prepare the Eggs:

1. Scrambled Eggs: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of butter or oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Pour in the eggs and gently stir with a spatula, allowing them to cook slowly. Continue stirring until they are soft and slightly creamy. Remove from heat when they are just set.
2. Fried Eggs: Alternatively, you can fry the eggs. Place a small amount of oil in a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan and cook until the whites are set but the yolk is still runny (about 2-3 minutes). For well-done yolks, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

3. Prepare the Avocado-Cilantro Crema (Optional):

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño (if using), and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice if needed.

4. Assemble the Dish:

1. Layer the Ingredients: On a plate or in a bowl, start by adding a generous portion of the scrambled or fried eggs. Top with a heap of shredded carnitas.
2. Add the Crema: Drizzle the avocado-cilantro crema over the carnitas and eggs, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
3. Optional Garnishes: Top with fresh cilantro, diced green onions, or a squeeze of lime for extra freshness. Serve with warm tortillas or your favorite breakfast sides.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

• Your carnitas breakfast with eggs is ready to enjoy! Whether you choose to eat it as is or wrap it up in a tortilla, this dish is sure to bring bold flavors to your morning routine.

Serving Suggestions

1. In a Breakfast Burrito:
   • Warm up a soft flour tortilla and fill it with the carnitas and eggs. Add a generous drizzle of avocado-cilantro crema, a spoonful of salsa, and perhaps a sprinkle of cheese (cheddar or cotija works beautifully). Roll it up for a satisfying, handheld breakfast.
2. With Crispy Tortillas:
   • Serve the carnitas and eggs alongside crispy tortilla chips for an extra crunch. You can even make a fun breakfast nacho plate by layering the eggs, carnitas, and crema over the chips, and topping it with a little melted cheese.
3. On a Bed of Greens:
   • For a lighter option, serve the carnitas and eggs on a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach. This makes a delicious, healthy breakfast salad that pairs wonderfully with the creamy avocado crema.
4. As a Classic Plate:
   • For a more traditional approach, simply plate the carnitas and eggs alongside your favorite sides, like roasted potatoes, refried beans, or sautéed vegetables. A side of homemade or store-bought salsa will add a burst of flavor to balance the richness of the pork.
5. With Avocado Slices:
   • If you’re craving more fresh flavors, serve the carnitas breakfast with slices of ripe avocado, a wedge of lime, and a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra creamy, zesty touch.
6. As Carnitas Tacos:
   • For a more casual, taco-style meal, serve the carnitas and eggs in warm corn or flour tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime, along with your avocado crema or favorite hot sauce.
7. With a Side of Pickled Vegetables:
   • To cut through the richness of the carnitas, serve the dish with a side of pickled jalapeños, carrots, or onions for a tangy contrast that enhances the flavors of the meal.

Tips & Notes

Make It Your Own:

• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, try sautéing some bell peppers, onions, or spinach and mixing them into the eggs or carnitas. You could also add roasted sweet potatoes or zucchini for a hearty, veggie-packed breakfast.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, toss in a diced jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes when cooking the carnitas, or stir some hot sauce into your eggs. A dash of smoked paprika can also add a subtle smokiness to the dish.
• Cheese It Up: A sprinkle of cheese can take this dish to the next level. Try crumbled cotija, shredded cheddar, or a meltier cheese like Monterey Jack on top of the carnitas for added richness.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Brighten up the dish with fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or even a bit of fresh basil or mint, depending on your flavor preferences.

Dietary Adjustments:

• Make It Plant-Based: For a plant-based version, substitute the pork with a plant-based protein, such as jackfruit (which mimics the texture of pulled pork) or seasoned tofu. You can also use tempeh for a heartier alternative. For the eggs, use tofu scramble or chickpea flour scramble as a replacement for traditional eggs.
• Dairy-Free Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, swap out the sour cream or Greek yogurt in the avocado-cilantro crema with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt or cashew cream. For cheese, try dairy-free cheese or simply omit it.
• Low-Carb Option: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, skip the tortillas and serve the carnitas and eggs with a side of avocado or a fresh salad instead. You could also use low-carb tortillas if you prefer a wrap.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you opt for tortillas, make sure to use gluten-free versions if needed.

Make Ahead Tips:

• Carnitas: The carnitas can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and freeze portions for later use.
• Crema: The avocado-cilantro crema can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 1-2 days. To prevent browning, cover the surface with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

Customization:

Feel free to get creative with this recipe based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. Carnitas and eggs are a versatile canvas, so don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings, sauces, or sides to make it your own. Whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or loaded with veggies, this dish can easily be tailored to suit your tastes!

Nutrition Information

The following nutritional breakdown is based on a typical serving of carnitas with eggs (about 1 serving of carnitas, 2 scrambled eggs, and a drizzle of avocado-cilantro crema). Keep in mind that the exact values will vary based on portion sizes, specific ingredients, and any modifications you make.

Calories:

• Approximately 500–600 calories per serving.

Macronutrients:

• Protein: 35–40g
  (Pork and eggs are both high in protein, making this a great choice for a filling breakfast.)
• Fat: 35–40g
  (The carnitas contribute healthy fats from pork, and the crema adds a bit of richness. If butter or oil is used to cook the eggs, the fat content will increase.)
• Carbohydrates: 6–10g
  (Carnitas and eggs are low in carbs, but if you add tortillas or other sides, this number will increase. The crema adds a small amount of carbs from the avocado and sour cream.)
• Fiber: 4–5g
  (Mostly from the avocado crema, which contains fiber-rich avocado and cilantro. Additional fiber can come from any vegetables you add.)

Micronutrients:

• Vitamin A: 15–20% of daily value
  (From the eggs and avocado, which are both rich in vitamin A.)
• Vitamin C: 10–15% of daily value
  (Primarily from the lime and cilantro in the crema, and any additional vegetables you add.)
• Calcium: 6–10% of daily value
  (From the eggs and the sour cream or yogurt in the crema. If using dairy-free alternatives, calcium levels may vary.)
• Iron: 10–12% of daily value
  (Found in pork and eggs, with additional amounts from the avocado.)

Sodium:

• Sodium: 600–800mg
  (Due to the seasoning of the pork and the use of chicken broth. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can use a low-sodium broth and adjust the seasoning.)

Additional Considerations:

• Dairy-Free: If you choose to make this dish dairy-free (using non-dairy yogurt for the crema), the calorie and fat content may be slightly lower, but the overall nutritional values will remain similar.
• Lower-Calorie Option: For a lower-calorie version, you can reduce the amount of crema or skip it altogether and serve the dish with a side of salsa or fresh vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What pairs well with carnitas and eggs?
  To complement the rich flavors of carnitas and eggs, serve with roasted potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a side of fresh salsa. Avocado or a tangy crema can also balance the dish’s richness. Warm tortillas or a light salad also work well as side options.
• Quick carnitas breakfast with eggs
  For a faster version, use pre-cooked or leftover carnitas, and scramble eggs while reheating the pork. This simplified approach reduces cooking time while maintaining flavor. It’s a perfect solution for busy mornings or a quick brunch.
• Savory pork carnitas breakfast with eggs
  This title clearly communicates the dish’s main ingredients, emphasizing the combination of flavorful pork and eggs. It’s straightforward, and appealing to readers who want a hearty and satisfying breakfast. This name is ideal for a focused recipe or blog post.
• Hands-off slow cooker carnitas breakfast
  Using a slow cooker for the carnitas offers a hands-off cooking method, allowing the flavors to develop over time with minimal effort. This is perfect for busy individuals who want a ready-to-eat meal without constant attention. Slow cooking also results in tender, flavorful pork that’s ideal for breakfast.
• Breakfast tacos with carnitas
  Serving the carnitas and eggs in tacos adds a fun, customizable twist to the meal. Top with salsa, avocado, and cilantro for a vibrant, flavorful breakfast option. Tacos offer a portable and easily shareable way to enjoy this dish.
• Hearty carnitas breakfast burrito
  Wrapping the carnitas and eggs in a burrito creates a filling, portable breakfast. Add cheese, beans, and your favorite hot sauce for extra flavor. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy a hearty, on-the-go meal.
• Carnitas and sunny-side-up eggs
  Instead of scrambled eggs, try serving the carnitas with a fried or sunny-side-up egg for a richer texture and yolk that complements the pork. This variation adds an elegant touch and offers a different visual and flavor experience. It’s a great choice for those who prefer eggs with a bit of runny yolk.

Carnitas Breakfast with Eggs

olivia

A hearty and flavorful breakfast combining tender carnitas, scrambled eggs, and a creamy avocado-cilantro crema. This versatile dish can be served in tacos, burritos, or on a plate, making it a perfect option for any morning!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, brunch

Cuisine American, Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Spoon or spatula for scrambling eggs
• Small bowl for crema
• Cutting board (for chopping ingredients)
• Knife
• Stove or stovetop

Ingredients

  

For the Carnitas

• 2 cups cooked carnitas fresh or leftover
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for reheating, if using leftover carnitas
• ½ cup chicken broth optional, for reheating

For the Eggs

• 8 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil for cooking
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado-Cilantro Crema (optional):

• 1 ripe avocado
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt to taste

Instructions

 

Reheat the Carnitas

• In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked carnitas and chicken broth (if using), and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Eggs

• While the carnitas are reheating, melt butter or oil in a separate skillet over medium-low heat. Crack the eggs into a bowl, beat with a fork, and season with salt and pepper. Pour the eggs into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until scrambled to your desired consistency (about 3-5 minutes).

Make the Avocado-Cilantro Crema

• In a small bowl, mash the avocado until smooth. Add the sour cream (or yogurt), cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir until fully combined.

Assemble the Dish

• Serve the carnitas and scrambled eggs on plates, topping with a generous spoonful of the avocado-cilantro crema. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and salsa if desired. Serve with warm tortillas or a side of your choice.

Notes

• For a quicker option, use leftover carnitas.
• The avocado-cilantro crema can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning of the crema, adding more lime or cilantro to taste.

Keyword Avocado Crema, Breakfast with Eggs, Burritos, Carnitas, Hearty Breakfast, Leftover Carnitas, Scrambled Eggs, Tacos

Conclusion

Carnitas breakfast with eggs is the perfect way to bring bold flavors and hearty satisfaction to your morning routine. Whether you enjoy it as a classic plate, wrapped in a burrito, or piled into tacos, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. From the tender, flavorful pork to the creamy avocado-cilantro crema, every bite is a celebration of comfort and creativity in the kitchen.

We hope this recipe inspires you to get playful with your breakfast ideas and make something truly memorable. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, you’ll always have a reason to look forward to mornings. Happy cooking, and may your breakfasts be as flavorful as your imagination!