Easy and Delicious Carnitas Nachos Recipe

Carnitas nachos are the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork with the crunch of tortilla chips, all topped with your favorite fixings. Whether you're hosting a game night or looking for an indulgent snack, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Carnitas:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Nachos:

• Tortilla chips
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• Black beans (optional)
• Jalapeños, sliced
• Pico de gallo or salsa
• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Cook the Carnitas

1. Season the Pork: Generously season the pork shoulder chunks with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
2. Brown the Pork: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork and brown on all sides.
3. Slow Cook: Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, orange juice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreddable.
4. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the liquid and shred it using two forks. Return it to the skillet and cook on medium-high heat until the edges are crispy.

Step 2: Assemble the Nachos

1. Layer the Chips: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter.
2. Add Toppings: Evenly distribute the shredded carnitas over the chips. Add black beans, jalapeños, and shredded cheese.
3. Bake: Place the nachos in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 3: Final Touches

1. Garnish: Remove the nachos from the oven and top them with pico de gallo, sour cream, guacamole, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your carnitas nachos immediately for the best taste and texture.

Tips for Customizing Your Nachos

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the heat. You can also add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Cheese Choices: Mix and match different cheeses like pepper jack, queso fresco, or even a spicy cheddar to add complexity to your nachos.
• Extra Toppings: Feel free to add corn, diced tomatoes, olives, or pickled onions for more flavor and texture.

Serving Recommendations

Carnitas nachos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is still melty and the chips are crisp. Pair them with a cold beverage like a classic margarita or a refreshing beer. They make a great appetizer or a hearty snack for any gathering.

Conclusion

Carnitas nachos are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that you can easily customize to fit your tastes. We hope you enjoy making and eating them as much as we do! If you try this recipe, we’d love to see your creations. Share your versions on social media and tag us with #CarnitasNachos.

Happy cooking!