Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and cayenne. Rub the spice blend all over the pork.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until deeply browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step builds flavor—don't skip it.
- Transfer the seared pork to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained fire-roasted tomatoes. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours, or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the pork shreds easily with a fork.
- Remove the pork to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then shred using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and stir into the juices. Keep warm on the WARM setting.
- Preheat the broiler to high with a rack about 6 inches from the heat. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Spread a single layer of tortilla chips on the sheet. Spoon shredded pork evenly over the chips, then scatter shredded cheese and pickled jalapeños on top.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chips are lightly toasted at the edges. Remove immediately.
- Top with dollops of sour cream, pico de gallo, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side. Repeat with remaining chips and toppings for a second batch if needed.
Notes
For the crispiest nachos, avoid overloading the chips—work in batches if necessary. Leftover shredded pork keeps in the fridge for 4 days or freezes for 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the crockpot during cooking.
