Pulled Pork Nachos

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 8

Pulled Pork Nachos combine the rich, savory flavors of tender pork with the satisfying crunch of tortilla chips, topped off with gooey, melted cheese and fresh toppings. This dish is perfect for game day, a casual get-together, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special and comforting.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights or spontaneous gatherings.
  • A perfect balance of textures and flavors: tender pork, crunchy chips, and creamy cheese.
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
  • A crowd-pleaser that can double as an appetizer or a main course.

Ingredients

1 lb pulled pork
8 oz tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup fresh salsa
1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial to ensure everything bakes evenly. Spread the tortilla chips across a large baking sheet, making sure they're in a single layer for even coverage.

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the pulled pork, seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper. Stir occasionally until the pork is warmed through, which should take about 5 minutes. Once heated, layer the pork evenly over the tortilla chips.

Next, sprinkle both the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the chips and pork. Ensure the cheese is spread out evenly to cover as much surface as possible. Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let it bake for about 10 minutes, just until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Once the nachos are out of the oven, top them with fresh salsa, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro, distributing each ingredient evenly. Finally, drizzle sour cream over the top before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

  • If you like your nachos extra crispy, briefly broil them in the oven after baking for an additional 1-2 minutes. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
  • For easy sour cream drizzling, thin it slightly with a bit of milk or water and use a squeeze bottle.
  • Warm the chips slightly before adding toppings to keep them crispier longer.

Serving Suggestions

Pulled Pork Nachos pair wonderfully with a side of guacamole or a simple avocado salad for added creaminess and freshness. For a more filling meal, serve them with a cold beer or a refreshing limeade to complement the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the pulled pork ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the pulled pork a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before adding to the nachos.
What if I don't like spicy food?
You can skip the jalapeños or replace them with sliced bell peppers for a milder flavor.
Can I use different cheese?
Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Pepper Jack or a Mexican blend would work well too.

Ingredients Explained

Pulled pork is the star of the show, offering a savory and tender meat base that's effortlessly delicious. The tortilla chips provide the essential crunch, serving as a sturdy foundation for all the toppings. Using both cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese results in a perfect melty blend with a hint of sharpness and creaminess. Fresh salsa adds a refreshing and slightly tangy contrast, while the sliced jalapeños bring a bit of heat for those who love a spicy kick. Cilantro adds a pop of color and a touch of herbal freshness. Finally, a drizzle of sour cream balances everything with its creamy tang.

Simplified Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the pulled pork, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until heated through.
4. Layer the pulled pork over the tortilla chips.
5. Sprinkle both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the pork and chips.
6. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted.
7. Remove from oven and top with fresh salsa, jalapeños, and cilantro.
8. Drizzle with sour cream before serving.

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