Pulled Pork Nacho Surprise

Name: Pulled Pork Nacho Surprise
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds pork shoulder; 1 tablespoon paprika; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 teaspoons cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 6 cups tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn, canned or frozen; 1 jalapeño, sliced; 1 avocado, diced; Sour cream and cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Kitchen Dishes

When I think of the perfect party food, pulled pork nachos always come to mind. The combination of tender, flavorful pulled pork with crispy tortilla chips and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. I love how easily this dish comes together, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Each bite is packed with flavor, and the toppings are endless! Whether you go classic or add your own flair, these nachos are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:10:27.974Z

Making pulled pork nachos has become a delicious family tradition for us. The slow-cooked pork, combined with spices and a touch of sweetness, creates a filling that's hard to resist. I find that allowing the pork to cook low and slow gives it the perfect tender texture, which is critical for this recipe.

What I adore most about this dish is its adaptability. We’ve experimented with various toppings, from jalapeños to fresh pico de gallo, ensuring each batch feels unique. One tip I’ve learned is to layer the toppings effectively for the best flavor in every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty, shredded pork that’s full of flavor
Crispy tortilla chips that hold up to your toppings
Customizable with your favorite nacho toppings

The Art of Pulled Pork

The secret to achieving tender and flavorful pulled pork lies in the slow cooking process. Cooking the pork shoulder on low heat allows the fat to render out slowly, resulting in a rich, moist meat that falls apart effortlessly. If time is tight, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours, but low and slow will always yield superior results.

Using a dry rub before cooking not only enhances the flavor but also creates a wonderful crust on the exterior of the meat. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like smoked paprika or chili powder to add additional depth. Once the pulled pork is ready, make sure to let it rest for a few minutes before shredding to lock in those juices.

Elevating the Nacho Experience

Layering your nachos thoughtfully is key to maximizing each delicious bite. Start with a generous base of tortilla chips to ensure an even distribution of toppings. Avoid the common pitfall of having a few chips with all the toppings and the rest bare. I usually reserve some cheese to sprinkle on top during the last few minutes of baking for that perfect melted finish.

Don’t shy away from customizing your nachos! Try adding fresh ingredients like sliced olives or jalapeños for a kick, or swap out the black beans for kidney beans if you prefer. You can also incorporate other cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for varying flavors and textures.

Ingredients for Pulled Pork Nacho Surprise

For the Pulled Pork

2 pounds pork shoulder
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup barbecue sauce

For the Nachos

6 cups tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn, canned or frozen
1 jalapeño, sliced
1 avocado, diced
Sour cream and cilantro for garnish

Additional Toppings (Optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Pulled Pork

In a bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder. Place the pork in a slow cooker and cover it with barbecue sauce. Cook on low for about 5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.

Assemble the Nachos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet. Once the pork is ready, shred it with two forks and distribute it evenly over the chips. Top with black beans, corn, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake the Nachos

Place the loaded baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and top with sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, sour cream, and cilantro. Serve immediately for the best experience!

Pro Tips

To ensure the nachos don't become soggy, serve the components separately and allow everyone to build their own nachos at the table. You can also swap out the pork for grilled chicken or beef for different flavors.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to simplify your party prep, the pulled pork can be made a day in advance. Once cooked, simply let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently in a saucepan or microwave, and mix in additional barbecue sauce to keep it juicy before layering it over the nachos.

The nachos themselves are best assembled right before baking to avoid sogginess. However, you can prepare all the toppings in advance and keep them in the fridge. Just be sure to slice the avocado last to prevent browning.

Garnishing for Flavor

Garnishes are not just for decoration; they enhance flavor and texture. A dollop of sour cream adds a cool creaminess that balances the heat from toppings like jalapeños. Fresh cilantro ties everything together with its bright herbal notes. I recommend giving everything a quick squeeze of lime juice just before serving to elevate the flavors even further.

Serving your nachos on a large platter allows for a beautiful presentation. Consider adding a side of extra BBQ sauce for dipping, or a fresh salsa for a zesty overview. This way, guests can customize their own plates to suit their tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make pulled pork in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pulled pork a day ahead and reheat it before serving. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ What kind of barbecue sauce works best?

A sweet barbecue sauce pairs well with the spices. You can choose your favorite brand or even homemade!

→ Can these nachos be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the pulled pork with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or your favorite plant-based protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The chips may lose their crispness, but the flavor will remain delicious!