BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos

Introduction

These sensational BBQ pulled pork nachos are loaded with crispy tortilla chips, tender pulled pork, melted cheese, fresh toppings, and tangy barbecue sauce. Swapping slow cooked, fall-apart pulled pork in for ground beef amps up the flavor and texture of classic nachos. They make for an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer or casual family dinner. Read on for the full recipe, tips to build the perfect nacho platter, and fun ways to customize these smoky pulled pork nachos.

Benefits of Pulled Pork

Pulled pork offers excellent nutritional value:

• High in protein, B vitamins, iron, zinc
• Provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
• Minimizes fat when slow cooked and pulled
• More fiber than ground meat
• Venison or turkey provide lean alternatives

Benefits of Nachos

Nachos can provide a relatively well-balanced meal with:

• Carbs from the tortilla chips
• Protein from the pork and cheese
• Fiber from beans and veggies
• Vitamins and minerals from fresh toppings
• Phytochemicals from salsa ingredients

Ingredients

These nachos include classic components:

• BBQ pulled pork
• Tortilla chips
• Shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack
• Salsa
• Onion
• Jalapeños
• Beans
• Sour cream
• Avocado, lettuce, tomato

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook Pulled Pork

Slow cook pork roast in a smoker, slow cooker, or oven until fall-apart tender.

Shred the Pork

Shred pork with two forks. Toss with BBQ sauce to coat.

Layer the Chips

Arrange a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet or platter.

Top with Ingredients

Layer pulled pork, beans, salsa, onions, jalapeños, and cheese on top.

Bake or Broil

Bake at 375°F or broil for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts.

Finish and Serve

Top with desired toppings like sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, and tomato. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

These BBQ nachos make for a great:

• Appetizer for a crowd
• Game day finger food
• Casual family dinner
• Potluck contribution
• Main for a backyard BBQ

Pair Them With:

• Beer or margaritas
• Cornbread
• Coleslaw or potato salad
• Fruit salad
• Churros

Customization Ideas

Personalize these nachos with your favorite flavors:

• Swap pulled chicken, brisket, or ground beef
• Use smoked gouda, pepper jack, queso fresco
• Add roasted green chilies or chipotle peppers
• Mix in grilled pineapple or mango
• Top with cilantro, scallions, or queso fresco
• Drizzle with ranch dressing or crema

Non-Pork Options

• Shredded chicken
• Ground beef or turkey
• Braised or smoked brisket
• Portobello mushrooms
• Jackfruit

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover components separately up to 4 days. Reheat gently before assembling.

Storage Tips

• Allow to cool before storing
• Transfer to shallow airtight containers
• Keep chips crisp in a paper bag
• Avoid sogginess

Reheating

• Microwave meat and beans with splash of liquid
• Warm cheese over low heat
• Crisp chips just before serving

Common Questions

What's the best way to heat the nachos?

Baking or broiling ensures even melting of cheese without burnt chips.

How can I make this gluten free?

Use gluten free soy sauce and certified gluten free tortilla chips.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, pepper jack, and Mexican blends melt nicely over the nachos.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, cook meat and prep toppings in advance then assemble and bake before serving.

Is pulled pork nachos kid friendly?

Absolutely! Omit any spicy toppings and use mild cheese for a kid pleasing dish.

Conclusion

Loaded BBQ pulled pork nachos make for an unbeatable appetizer or casual family dinner. Crispy tortilla chips stacked with tender shredded pork, gooey melted cheese, fresh toppings, and cool sour cream can’t be beat. Adapt the recipe to your taste then dig into cheesy, meaty nacho perfection!