Leftover Carnitas Recipes for Hearty Breakfasts and MUCH More

When I’ve got leftover carnitas in the fridge, I don’t see leftovers—I see opportunities!

I’ve used them in everything from skillet hash with eggs to crispy quesadillas and even tossed them onto nachos with beans and jalapeños.

Carnitas reheat beautifully in a hot pan without drying out, especially if you splash in a little water or broth while warming.

I like how the edges can crisp up again while the inside stays soft, which brings back that original texture!

The seasoning is usually mellow enough that you can steer it in any direction—savory breakfast, weeknight tacos, or rice bowls.

1. Classic Carnitas Tacos

I recently made these Classic Carnitas Tacos and let me tell you, they are as easy to make as they sound.

The recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients, and in no time, my kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of tender, flavorful street tacos.

I loved how customizable this dish is, allowing me to add my favorite toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

2. Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chorizo Tacos

I’ve prepared these amazing Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Tacos a few times now.

Not only were these tacos super easy to make, but the combination of sweet pineapple and spicy jalapeño made for a unique and irresistible flavor pairing.

Assembling the tacos was a breeze, and you can experiment with other toppings like creamy avocado and crispy red cabbage.

These pineapple tacos are now on my go-to list for a fun and tasty meal!

3. Korean-Inspired Tacos

These incredible Korean-Inspired Tacos were undoubtedly a game changer for my family.

The recipe was straightforward and called for some delicious ingredients like minced garlic, fresh ginger, and tangy kimchi.

I was more than pleased with how well the flavors from the carnitas complemented the bold Korean flavors.

Whipping up these tacos will definitely introduce you to a new take on a classic favorite.

4. Carnitas Breakfast Burrito

 

Ever tried starting your day with Carnitas Breakfast Burrito?

You should try it!

Whipping one up is a breeze, and can be a huge hit with big breakfast eaters.

The combination of tender carnitas, fluffy scrambled eggs, and gooey cheese all wrapped up in a warm tortilla is simply heavenly.

Trust me – you won’t regret trying this one!

5. Carnitas Huevos Rancheros

I’ve always found Carnitas Huevos Rancheros to be so satisfying, and it’s super easy to make.

You’ll only need some leftover carnitas, fried eggs, a crispy tortilla, and the secret ingredient – a generous drizzle of spicy, homemade ranchero sauce.

It’s the perfect way to add a little kick to your morning.

6. Carnitas and Egg Skillet

For all you skillet lovers out there, prepare to fall for the Carnitas and Egg Skillet.

Imagine hot, savory carnitas combined with diced potatoes and perfectly cooked eggs, all mingling in your favorite skillet.

It’s not only a magnificent breakfast option but also a fun cooking adventure that I wholeheartedly recommend.

So, those are my favorite ways to turn leftover carnitas into delectable breakfast dishes. 

7. Carnitas Fried Rice

One of my favorite ideas is this Carnitas Fried Rice recipe.

I love how it combines the savory flavors of carnitas with classic Asian fried rice ingredients.

With just a few simple steps, I transformed my leftover carnitas into an entirely new dish.

The best part is that I could customize the ingredients to my liking.

• Add more veggies for a healthier option
• Use brown rice instead of white rice for extra fiber
• Or adjust the level of spiciness according to my preferences

8. Carnitas Stuffed Bell Peppers

The sweetness of roasted peppers works well with the rich, tender meat.

I like adding rice, black beans, plantains and just enough cheese to pull it all together.

Bake the peppers until they soften, but don’t let them collapse.

It’s a full, filling dish that doesn’t take much time to put together!

9. Carnitas Pizza

Oh my, this Carnitas Pizza is the perfect fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors!

All I did was spread some tomato sauce onto a pizza crust, top it with shredded carnitas, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.

Once the pizza was baked, I sprinkled some chili flakes to add a bit of heat. Scrumptious!

Making this pizza was a breeze, and it felt like the most satisfying and delicious way to use my leftover carnitas.

10. Carnitas Calzone

Right after the pizza, I had to try making a Carnitas Calzone, and let me tell you, it was a winner!

I simply mixed the carnitas with ricotta cheese, some basil, and a pinch of salt.

Then, I filled it into the dough, folded it over, crimped the edges, and popped it in the oven.

In no time, I had a delicious Italian-style pocket filled with mouthwatering carnitas.

11. Carnitas Grilled Cheese

I’ve made this delectable Carnitas Grilled Cheese recipe a few times now, and each time, it blew me away!

It’s not only fun to make, but the combination of melted cheese and juicy carnitas sandwiched between crispy, golden-brown bread is just heavenly.

The ingredients are simple, but the flavors are extraordinary.

Trust me, this recipe takes the classic grilled cheese sandwich to a whole new level!

12. Carnitas Shepherd’s Pie

Another comfort food classic I really enjoy making with leftover carnitas is this scrumptious Carnitas Shepherd’s Pie.

This recipe is definitely a must-try!

I absolutely love how easy it is to put together,

and the way the savory carnitas contrast with the creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes is a match made in heaven.

Don’t even get me started on the crispy topping that forms as the pie bakes in the oven – it’s truly mouthwatering!

13. Carnitas Burrito Bowl

One of my go-to options is the Carnitas Burrito Bowl. It’s simple to make and allows you to mix and match the ingredients to suit your taste buds.

You’ll need a base of rice or cauliflower rice, then just pile on your juicy carnitas, black beans, corn, salsa, avocado, and any other toppings you love.

For a little extra kick, drizzle some spicy sour cream on top.