I’m so excited to share this recipe for Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Nachos because it’s perfect for gatherings, especially for the Super Bowl! Nothing brings people together like a mountain of nachos topped with tender, juicy pulled pork. I still can’t forget the first Super Bowl party I hosted; I went for a simple chili and ended up with a bowl of lukewarm disappointment. Ever since that day, nachos have been my go-to dish!
The reason I love these Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Nachos so much is that they’re incredibly easy to make and can feed a crowd without you slaving away in the kitchen. Picture this: guests arrive, you just have to assemble everything, and voilà! Not only do you get to enjoy the game, but you also get to bask in the glory of your delicious nachos. Trust me, these nachos are a game changer!
What’s in Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Nachos?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make these nachos a fan favorite. Each element plays a vital role in creating an unforgettable flavor experience.
Pork Shoulder: This is the star of the show! Pork shoulder is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes incredibly tender and juicy. I usually opt for organic when I can; the flavor is definitely worth it.
BBQ Sauce: You’ll need a good quality BBQ sauce to really amp up the flavor. I’m a fan of sweet and smoky flavors, so I go for a Kansas City-style BBQ sauce!
Tortilla Chips: The foundation of our nachos! Look for sturdy chips that can hold up under the weight of all those toppings. I swear by restaurant-style tortilla chips; they’re thicker and so much better!
Shredded Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese gives you that delicious melting factor.
Jalapeños: For a touch of heat! Fresh jalapeños sliced thin add that right amount of spice. If you want to kick it up a notch, feel free to use pickled jalapeños!
Sour Cream & Guacamole: These are an absolute must-have for serving! They provide a cooling contrast to the spicy nachos.
Green Onions: Finely chopped to sprinkle on top for freshness and a pop of green!
Is Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Nachos Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health considerations. Yes, nachos often have a bad rap, but they can be made healthier with the right choices!
Pork Shoulder: While higher in fat, pork shoulder is a great source of protein. Just remember that moderation is key!
BBQ Sauce: Store-bought sauces can contain a lot of sugar, so look for brands with lower sugar content or make your own!
Tortilla Chips: Opt for baked tortilla chips if you want to cut down on fat.
Vegetables: Toppings like jalapeños and green onions add nutrients and flavor without excess calories, so pile them on!
Though these nachos may not be the healthiest dish on the table, they are definitely a delicious one! Enjoy them as a treat every now and then, and you’ll be just fine!
Ingredients List:
– 3-4 lbs pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 1 large bag of restaurant-style tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheese (I recommend a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack)
– 1 cup sliced fresh jalapeños (or pickled, if preferred)
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup guacamole
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
This recipe serves about 8-10 people, making it perfect for a party!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Nachos?
1. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and cover it with BBQ sauce. Make sure it’s well coated.
2. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is falling apart.
3. Once the pork is cooked, shred it using two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. On a large baking sheet, layer the tortilla chips, shredded pork, and a generous sprinkle of cheese.
6. Add jalapeños on top and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with sour cream, guacamole, and green onions.
Mexican Fiesta on a Plate!
– For additional flavors, you can add black beans, corn, or pico de gallo as toppings!
– If you have leftover pulled pork (unlikely, but it happens), it goes wonderfully in tacos or sandwiches.
– And for a sweet finish, serve with some home-baked brownies for dessert!
I really can’t stress enough how much fun these Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Nachos can bring to your Super Bowl party or any gathering for that matter! I’d love to hear how they turn out for you; feel free to drop me a comment or share your nacho creations. Let’s get ready for some football and flavor! Enjoy!