Pulled Pork Nachos
Pulled Pork Nachos are the ultimate comfort snack, piled high with tender, juicy pulled pork, melted cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, and all the toppings you love like fresh salsa, creamy…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Pulled Pork Nachos are the ultimate comfort snack, piled high with tender, juicy pulled pork, melted cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, and all the toppings you love like fresh salsa, creamy sour cream, and tangy jalapeños. This dish is all about big flavors and fun textures that come together in every bite.
I love making these nachos when friends come over because they’re perfect for sharing and super easy to customize. Sometimes I add beans or avocado, and other times I go heavy on the barbecue sauce to keep the pulled pork extra moist and flavorful. It’s a simple way to turn a casual night into something special.
For the best experience, I always serve these nachos straight out of the oven so the cheese is still gooey and everything feels warm and fresh. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together and disappears way too fast, which makes me smile every time I make it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pulled Pork: This is the star of the dish! If you don’t have leftover pork, you can use pulled chicken or even shredded jackfruit for a vegetarian twist.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds bold flavor. Monterey Jack makes it creamier. Feel free to mix both or swap for mozzarella or pepper jack to add a little kick.
Tortilla Chips: Choose sturdy chips that won’t get soggy quickly. Thick-cut or restaurant-style chips work best here. If you want a gluten-free option, check the package for allergen info.
Barbecue Sauce: Pick your favorite brand or homemade version. Sweet, smoky, or spicy styles all work. If you’re avoiding sugar, look for low-sugar sauces or use a spicy hot sauce instead.
Toppings: Red onions add crunch and sharpness; cilantro brings freshness. Sour cream cools down the heat and adds creaminess. Jalapeños are optional but great for extra spice.
How Do You Get Crispy, Gooey Pulled Pork Nachos Without Soggy Chips?
The secret is layering and timing. Spread your tortilla chips in a single even layer. Add pulled pork and cheese evenly so every chip gets some topping but isn’t overloaded.
- Bake in a hot oven (around 375°F or 190°C) just until the cheese melts, usually about 10 minutes.
- Remove immediately and add fresh toppings like onion and cilantro after baking to keep them crisp.
- Drizzle sauces like barbecue and sour cream last to avoid soggy chips during baking.
- Serve right away to enjoy the contrast between crunchy chips and melty cheese.
Taking these small steps keeps your nachos perfectly crispy and flavorful every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large baking sheet – perfect for spreading chips in an even layer so they crisp nicely.
- Oven mitts – helpful for safely handling the hot baking sheet when you take the nachos out of the oven.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping fresh toppings like red onion and cilantro.
- Spoon or small squeeze bottle – makes drizzling barbecue sauce and sour cream easy and neat.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pulled pork for shredded chicken for a milder, leaner option that soaks up BBQ sauce well.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and a touch of sweetness that balances smoky pork.
- Mix in pepper jack cheese to add a little spicy kick in every bite.
- Top with avocado slices or guacamole to add creaminess and a fresh contrast to the BBQ flavors.
How to Make Pulled Pork Nachos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bag (about 10-12 oz) tortilla chips
- 2 cups cooked pulled pork (preferably with barbecue sauce)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- ½ cup red onion, diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup sour cream
- Optional: sliced jalapeños, guacamole or avocado slices, salsa for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and assemble, plus 10 minutes to bake in the oven. You’ll spend a few minutes layering the chips, pulled pork, and cheese, then a quick bake to melt everything perfectly. After baking, you add fresh toppings and sauces before serving. In total, about 20 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Layer the Chips:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a single, even layer of tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or tray that can go in the oven.
2. Add Pulled Pork and Cheese:
Scatter your cooked pulled pork all over the chips. Then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the top to cover the chips and pork well.
3. Bake Until Cheesy and Melty:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so the chips don’t burn.
4. Add Fresh Toppings and Sauces:
Take the nachos out of the oven. Quickly sprinkle the diced red onions and chopped cilantro over the top. Drizzle barbecue sauce in lines or dollops, then add spoons of sour cream. Add any optional toppings like jalapeños or guacamole if you like.
5. Serve and Enjoy Right Away:
Serve your pulled pork nachos warm with extra barbecue sauce or salsa on the side. These nachos are best enjoyed fresh and hot with gooey cheese and crunchy chips.
Can I Use Frozen Pulled Pork for These Nachos?
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the pulled pork in the fridge overnight and warm it up slightly before assembling the nachos. This helps keep everything evenly heated and tasty.
Can I Make Pulled Pork Nachos Ahead of Time?
You can prep the pulled pork and chop the toppings in advance, but it’s best to assemble and bake the nachos just before serving to keep the chips crispy and the cheese perfectly melted.
How Should I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes to keep the chips from getting too soggy.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Cheese?
If you want a different flavor or need a dairy-free option, try using pepper jack for a bit of spice or vegan cheese alternatives. Just choose a cheese that melts well for the best texture.