Costco carnitas might be your new weeknight hero if you’re craving tender, smoky, melt-in-your-mouth pork. Whether you’re making tacos, a hearty torta de carnitas, or crispy pork bowls, Costco’s Del Real Foods carnitas offer a mouthwatering shortcut to authentic Mexican flavour. This guide dives deep into everything you need to know—from what’s inside the package to how to cook Costco carnitas to crispy perfection.

Let’s explore how this savoury favourite stacks up and how you can make the most of every bite.

What is Costco Carnitas?

🥩 Brand & Product Description

Costco carries Del Real Foods Carnitas, a fully cooked, traditional Mexican-style pork shoulder that’s slow-cooked until tender. The product comes vacuum-sealed in a heat-safe pouch and is ready to heat and serve, making it ideal for busy weeknights or taco Tuesdays.
“Carnitas” literally means “little meats” in Spanish—and this version stays true to its roots with rich, flavorful pork that’s versatile and satisfying.

📦 Packaging & Ingredients

Packaging: 2 lb (32 oz) vacuum-sealed pouch
Appearance: Shredded, lightly seasoned pork shoulder in its juices
Key Ingredients:

• Pork
• Water
• Orange juice
• Garlic
• Onion
• Spices
• Salt

These simple ingredients help deliver an authentic flavour that works with various recipes.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutrition per 3 oz serving:

This product is keto-friendly, high in protein and low in carbs, and works excellent in low-carb meals.

Finding & Pricing at Costco

Where to Find It

Look for Del Real Foods Carnitas in Costco’s refrigerated prepared meals section, often near other heat-and-eat favourites like tamales and rotisserie chicken.

Package Size & Price

Size: 2 lbs (serves 6–8)
Price: Around $13.99 – $15.99, depending on your local store

Value Analysis

Costco Carnitas offers incredible value with a per-serving cost of just around $2—especially considering the high protein content and ready-to-serve convenience.

How to Cook Costco Carnitas (Multiple Methods)

The carnitas come fully cooked, so you only need to heat and crisp them up. Here are three easy cooking methods:

Best Method: Oven (Crispy Perfection)

Step-by-Step:

• Preheat oven to 425°F.
• Spread shredded carnitas on a foil-lined baking sheet.
• Drizzle with a small amount of oil (optional for crisping).
• Bake for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Remove when the edges are golden and crispy.

💡 Pro Tip: Broil for an extra 2–3 minutes at the end for super crisp results.

Alternative Method: Stovetop

Quick & easy, perfect for small batches.

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add carnitas and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Optional: Add a splash of broth or orange juice to keep it juicy.

Air Fryer Method

For crispy carnitas without the oven:

• Preheat air fryer to 390°F.
• Spread carnitas in a single layer.
• Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Our Honest Review

Flavor Profile

These carnitas are rich, savoury, and smoky—with hints of citrus from the orange juice. The flavour is well-balanced, not overly salty, and works well on its own or in other dishes.

Texture

• Tender and juicy interior
• Crispy edges when cooked properly
• Great for pulling apart with forks for tacos or nachos

✅ Pros and ❌ Cons

Pros:

• Ready in minutes
• Authentic flavour
• Generous portion size
• Versatile

Cons:

• Slightly greasy (familiar with carnitas)
• Not as crisp without extra cooking steps

Overall Verdict

Highly recommended. Whether feeding a family or prepping for a party, Costco carnitas are a delicious and convenient option that punches way above their price point.

Delicious Recipes & Serving Ideas

These carnitas shine in everything from classics to creative dishes:

Classic: Tacos

Warm up tortillas and pile on carnitas with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Burritos

Roll them up with rice, beans, cheese, and your favourite salsa.

Torta de Carnitas

Layer carnitas on a toasted bolillo roll with avocado, pickled jalapeños, and chipotle mayo.

Carnitas Bowls

Build a burrito bowl with rice, black beans, corn, salsa, and shredded cheese.

Carnitas Fries

Top crispy fries with carnitas, queso, guac, and jalapeños—perfect for game day.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze portions for up to 2 months

Reheating Tips

• Stovetop: Sauté with a bit of oil for 5–7 minutes
• Oven: Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes
• Microwave: Use in 30-second bursts, though it may reduce crispiness

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Costco Carnitas offer a delicious, affordable, and easy way to enjoy Mexican-style pulled pork at home. From crispy tacos to creative bowls and tortas, the options are endless. With a few pro tips and the proper prep method, you’ll quickly have restaurant-quality carnitas on your table.

What’s the best way to heat up Costco carnitas

Recipe by [email protected]Course: PorkCuisine: united stateDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6-8

servings

Prep time

2

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

190

kcal

Total time

12

minutes

Learn how to prepare Costco carnitas with our easy step-by-step guide. Find tips for the best cooking methods and serving ideas.

Ingredients

• Packaging: 2 lb (32 oz) vacuum-sealed pouch

• Appearance: Shredded, lightly seasoned pork shoulder in its juices

• Key Ingredients:

• Pork

• Water

• Orange juice

• Garlic

• Onion

• Spices

• Salt

Directions

• Oven Method (Best for Crispy Edges)
• Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
• Open the vacuum-sealed pouch and transfer the shredded carnitas to a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
• Spread out the pork in an even layer—don’t overcrowd to ensure crispiness.
• Optional: Drizzle with a small amount of oil for extra crisp texture.
• Bake for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are golden and crispy.
• Pro Tip: For ultra-crispy carnitas, broil for the last 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye so they don’t burn.