Kalua Pork Nachos
A taste of the islands meets a game-day favorite. These nachos feature smoky, tender, slow-cooked Kalua pork piled high on crispy tortilla chips, smothered in melted cheese, and topped with a vibrant, sweet-and-spicy pineapple salsa.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 375 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Slow Cook the Kalua Pork
- b.Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Using a fork, pierce the meat all over to help the seasonings penetrate.
- c.In a small bowl, combine the coarse sea salt and garlic powder. Rub this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pork.
- d.Drizzle the liquid smoke over the pork and rub it in thoroughly.
- e.Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Pour 1/2 cup of water around the base of the pork.
- f.Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours. The pork is done when it is exceptionally tender and falls apart easily with a fork.
- g.Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board for 10-15 minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Pineapple Salsa
- b.While the pork rests, prepare the salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the finely diced pineapple, red onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice.
- c.Season with 1/4 tsp of salt and stir gently to combine.
- d.For best flavor, cover and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Nachos
- b.Adjust an oven rack to the upper-middle position (about 6 inches from the heating element) and preheat the broiler to HIGH.
- c.Spread the tortilla chips in a single, even layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet to ensure even cooking and melting.
- d.Evenly distribute about 3-4 cups of the shredded Kalua pork over the chips.
- e.Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese generously over the pork and chips, ensuring good coverage.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Broil Until Golden and Bubbly
- b.Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Broil for 2-5 minutes, watching it constantly as it can go from perfect to burnt in seconds.
- c.Remove from the oven as soon as the cheese is fully melted, bubbling, and has a few lightly golden-brown spots.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve Immediately
- b.Remove the nachos from the oven. Let them cool for a minute.
- c.Top generously with the fresh pineapple salsa. Drizzle with sour cream and garnish with a sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro.
- d.Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best melt, shred your own block of Monterey Jack cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can prevent a smooth melt.
- 2Use sturdy, restaurant-style tortilla chips that can handle the weight of the toppings without becoming soggy.
- 3The Kalua pork can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making assembly quick and easy for a party.
- 4Drain any excess liquid from the shredded pork before adding it to the nachos to prevent the chips from getting soggy.
- 5For a thinner, more drizzly crema, whisk the sour cream with a tablespoon of lime juice or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- 6Don't walk away from the oven when broiling! The high heat can burn the chips and cheese in under a minute.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the Kalua pork with shredded barbecue chicken, smoked beef brisket, or seasoned ground beef.
Vegetarian OptionVegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, use shredded jackfruit. Sauté it with the same seasonings (salt, garlic powder, liquid smoke) until tender.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Add a minced serrano pepper to the salsa, or mix sriracha or chipotle powder into the sour cream for a spicy crema drizzle.
Cheese BlendCheese Blend
Use a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for more complex flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Pork shoulder is rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, supporting bone health, and maintaining overall body function.
Rich in B Vitamins
Pork is a great source of several B vitamins, including B12, B6, niacin, and thiamine. These vitamins are crucial for energy metabolism, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells.
Immunity-Boosting Vitamin C
The fresh pineapple, lime juice, and cilantro in the salsa provide a good dose of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps support a healthy immune system and aids in iron absorption.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of these Kalua Pork Nachos contains approximately 750-850 calories, depending on the specific fat content of the pork and the brand of chips and cheese used. It's a rich, indulgent dish best enjoyed as a treat.