When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s a plate piled high with carnitas nachos, where crispy tortilla chips cradle tender, juicy pork, drizzled with melted cheese and zesty toppings. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. For more inspiration, check out this snacks and appetizers recipe.
Imagine sitting down with family or friends, everyone eagerly reaching for that first cheesy bite, laughter echoing in the background. Carnitas nachos are perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or any spontaneous gathering that calls for a fiesta of flavors. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These carnitas nachos are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion
- The rich flavor profile combines savory pork with fresh toppings for a satisfying bite
- Their vibrant colors create an appetizing visual feast that looks as good as it tastes
- Versatile enough for casual snacks or as a crowd-pleasing party dish!
I still remember the first time I made carnitas nachos at home. My friends devoured them in minutes while I stood there trying to figure out how I could make another batch without revealing my secret recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pork Shoulder: Opt for a well-marbled cut for tender, flavorful carnitas that melt in your mouth.
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Onions: Sweet onions add depth; sauté them until they turn golden and release their natural sweetness.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential; it infuses the dish with aromatic goodness that enhances every bite.
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Cumin: This spice brings warmth and earthiness to the carnitas; don’t skip it!
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Tortilla Chips: Choose thick-cut chips; they’ll hold up better under all those tasty toppings.
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Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds gooeyness.
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Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños provide just the right kick of heat to balance the richness.
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Sour Cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances out the flavors nicely.
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Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that brightens up the whole dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Pork Shoulder: Begin by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper generously.
Sear the Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear each piece of pork until golden brown on all sides—about 4-5 minutes per side adds depth of flavor.
Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—this will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas!
Cook Low and Slow: Transfer everything into a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add cumin and cover with broth or water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until fork-tender—patience pays off here!
Shred the Carnitas: Once cooked, remove pork from pot and shred using two forks. It should fall apart easily! Mix in some cooking liquid to keep it moist.
Assemble Your Nachos: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Layer tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top generously with shredded carnitas, cheese, jalapeños, then bake until bubbly—about 10-12 minutes.
Enjoy creating this delightful dish filled with flavors reminiscent of your favorite taco joint!
You Must Know
- Carnitas nachos are not just a snack; they’re a culinary adventure!
- The combination of crispy chips, savory carnitas, and vibrant toppings creates a mouthwatering experience
- Perfect for game days or cozy nights in, these nachos will impress everyone at your table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the carnitas first to ensure they’re flavorful and tender. While they cook, you can bake the chips and prepare toppings for seamless assembly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your carnitas nachos with various toppings like jalapeños, guacamole, or even pineapple salsa for a tropical twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover carnitas separately from the chips to maintain crispiness. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh tortilla chips for that extra crunch; stale chips ruin the experience
- Layering toppings helps distribute flavors evenly, so everything is delicious in every bite
- And don’t skip the cheese—it’s a nacho essential!
Cooking these delightful carnitas nachos has become a family tradition during our movie nights. Everyone gathers around, sharing stories and laughter while devouring every cheesy bite.
FAQ
What are carnitas nachos made of?
Carnitas nachos consist of tortilla chips topped with seasoned pulled pork, cheese, and various toppings.
How do I make carnitas for nachos?
Slow-cook pork shoulder with spices until tender, then shred it for delicious carnitas.
Can I use leftovers for carnitas nachos?
Absolutely! Leftover carnitas are perfect for creating quick and tasty nachos anytime.
Delicious Carnitas Nachos Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these carnitas nachos, where crispy tortilla chips are generously topped with tender, flavorful pulled pork, melted cheese, and zesty toppings. Perfect for game nights or casual gatherings, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds. With easy preparation steps and customizable toppings, you’ll create a delightful feast that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp cumin
- 8 oz thick-cut tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
- 1/2 cup fresh jalapeños (sliced)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the pork until golden brown on all sides (about 4-5 minutes per side).
- Add onions and garlic to the skillet; sauté until fragrant.
- Transfer everything to a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add cumin and enough broth or water to cover. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender.
- Shred the cooked pork using two forks and mix in some cooking liquid.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a baking sheet, layer tortilla chips, then top with shredded carnitas, cheese, and jalapeños. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve topped with sour cream and fresh cilantro.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Customize your nachos with additional toppings like guacamole or pineapple salsa for a unique twist. To keep leftover carnitas separate from chips for optimal freshness, store them in airtight containers.
