BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos

Name: BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs pork shoulder; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 jalapeño, sliced; 1/2 cup sour cream; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I love indulging in BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos whenever I'm in the mood for a hearty snack or game day feast. The combination of smoky, slow-cooked pork drenched in tangy BBQ sauce piled high on crispy tortilla chips is simply irresistible. Topped with creamy cheese, fresh jalapeños, and a drizzle of sour cream, these nachos are guaranteed to satisfy my cravings. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, making them a favorite for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T10:30:31.509Z

When I first tried making BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos at home, I was amazed at how easy and satisfying they turned out. Cooking the pork low and slow not only makes it ultra-tender, but it really allows the flavors of the spices and BBQ sauce to meld beautifully. One tip I learned is to let the pork rest before shredding; this helps retain the juices, making every bite incredibly juicy.

With the right toppings, these nachos can be a full meal or an impressive appetizer. I love mixing up the toppings based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add diced avocado or a sprinkle of cilantro for an extra burst of freshness. The versatility of this dish is just fantastic!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Heavenly smoky flavor from slow-cooked pulled pork
Crispy tortilla chips that hold all the delicious toppings
Customizable with your favorite nacho toppings

Perfecting the Pulled Pork

The key to a mouthwatering pulled pork lies in the low and slow cooking method. By cooking the pork shoulder at a low temperature for 6-8 hours, you allow the connective tissues to break down, resulting in a tender and juicy final product. Keep the slow cooker covered to maintain moisture; peek only occasionally to avoid losing heat. This gradual cooking also means that the flavors meld beautifully, so don't rush it!

For even more flavor infusion, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a tablespoon of brown sugar to the BBQ sauce before cooking. The vinegar adds brightness, while the sugar caramelizes during cooking, enhancing the overall richness. If you don’t have pork shoulder on hand, a pork butt is a great substitute; both cuts yield delicious results due to their marbled fat, which ensures the meat stays juicy.

Building the Ultimate Nachos

When assembling your nachos, it’s important to create layers rather than simply piling ingredients on top. Start with a generous layer of tortilla chips, making sure they’re spread out to prevent sogginess. Follow with shredded pork and a liberal amount of cheese; the cheese acts as a glue binding everything together. Additionally, try to distribute toppings evenly so every bite is flavorful, not overloaded in one area.

Baking is a crucial step; preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for best results. The cheese should become gooey and slightly golden. If you want a little crunch, place the nachos under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning. Serve immediately after baking to ensure that the chips retain their crispy texture—this is essential for a satisfying nacho experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos:

For the Pulled Pork

2 lbs pork shoulder
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Nachos

8 oz tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 jalapeño, sliced
1/2 cup sour cream
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy making your delicious BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos!

Instructions

Here's how to prepare your BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos:

Prepare the Pulled Pork

In a slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, sliced onion, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.

Shred the Pork

Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 15 minutes before shredding it with two forks. Stir it back into the BBQ sauce.

Assemble the Nachos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Layer the tortilla chips on a baking sheet, then top with shredded pork and cheddar cheese.

Bake the Nachos

Bake the nachos in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Add Toppings

Remove the nachos from the oven and top with sliced jalapeños and a drizzle of sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, try adding avocado or black olives as additional toppings. You can also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover nachos, store the components separately. Place the pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the tortilla chips, keeping them in a sealed bag helps maintain their crunch. When you're ready to eat, reheat the pork in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, usually about 10-15 minutes. Consider freshening up the chips in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crunch before assembling.

Avoid reheating the nachos once assembled, as this can lead to a soggy mess. Instead, it's better to slightly under-bake them initially, then add your toppings and finish baking right before serving. This way, you can control the texture and keep them enjoyable with each bite!

Variations on the Classic

Feel free to get creative with your nacho toppings! Swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicier kick or use a blend of Mexican cheeses for a deeper flavor profile. Adding black olives, diced tomatoes, or avocado can also enhance the freshness and color of the dish. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, experiment with a barbecue sauce infused with different flavors like bourbon or honey for a unique twist.

For a healthier alternative, try making a pulled pork bowl instead of nachos. Serve the smoky pulled pork over a bed of mixed greens, topped with the same cheese, jalapeños, and a drizzle of sour cream. This variation allows for a lighter option that still packs the delicious flavors of your favorite nachos.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the pulled pork in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pulled pork a day ahead and refrigerate it. Heat it up before assembling the nachos.

→ What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce; a sweeter sauce balances the spiciness of the jalapeños well.

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Chicken or beef can also be used for a great pulled meat option.

→ Are these nachos gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tortilla chips, the nachos can be gluten-free.