Loaded Pulled Pork Totchos Recipe

Cook Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 8 servings:

• 1 (28 ounce) package frozen bite-size potato nuggets (such as Tater Tots)
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups cooked pulled pork
• 1 cup barbeque sauce
• cup sour cream
• teaspoon smoked paprika

White Cheddar Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 5 ounces shredded white Cheddar cheese
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup canned pinto beans, drained
• cup chopped roasted red bell peppers
• 1 tablespoon thinly sliced green onion (Optional)
• 1 teaspoon minced thyme (Optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425F (220C). Spread the frozen potato nuggets evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the nuggets are browned and crispy.
3. Once baked, transfer the nuggets to a large bowl and lightly season with salt.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked pulled pork with the barbeque sauce, stirring until the pork is evenly coated.
5. In another small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and smoked paprika. Set aside.
6. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to form a paste.
7. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
8. Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the shredded Cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
9. Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
10. Drizzle the creamy Cheddar cheese sauce over the crispy potato nuggets.
11. Top the nuggets with the pulled pork mixture and dollops of the smoked paprika sour cream.
12. Garnish with the pinto beans, chopped roasted red bell peppers, and optionally, the green onion and minced thyme.

Cook's Note:

If preferred, substitute roasted pimentos for the red bell peppers.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 537

Nutrition Fact	Amount	% Daily Value*
Total Fat	26g	33%
Saturated Fat	11g	55%
Cholesterol	88mg	29%
Sodium	1620mg	70%
Total Carbohydrate	53g	19%
Dietary Fiber	4g	15%
Total Sugars	13g	-
Protein	28g	56%
Vitamin C	10mg	11%
Calcium	246mg	19%
Iron	1mg	5%
Potassium	545mg	12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History: The Loaded Pulled Pork Totchos recipe represents a modern twist on classic comfort foods. It combines two popular American snacks: tater tots and nachos. While nachos have a rich history dating back to the 1940s in northern Mexico, totchos (tater tot nachos) are a more recent invention, likely emerging in the 1990s or early 2000s as part of a growing trend of hybrid comfort food dishes. This fusion dish reflects American culinary creativity, combining the beloved crunchy potato nugget (tater tots) with savory pulled pork, making it a hit at gatherings and tailgates alike.

Regional Features: Although it is typically considered an American dish, Loaded Pulled Pork Totchos are popular across various regions in the United States, especially in areas where comfort food and BBQ culture dominate. The barbecue sauce used for the pulled pork varies depending on regional preferences, with tangy vinegar-based sauces found in the Carolinas and sweeter, tomato-based sauces common in Kansas City or Texas. The dish itself has no strict regional origin, but it resonates with the flavors of southern and midwestern comfort foods.

Difference from Similar Dishes: While Loaded Pulled Pork Totchos might seem similar to classic nachos, the main distinction lies in the base. Traditional nachos are made with tortilla chips, whereas totchos use crispy potato nuggets (like Tater Tots), offering a heartier texture and flavor. Additionally, the inclusion of pulled pork, a slow-cooked BBQ meat, makes these totchos more substantial and protein-packed compared to standard nachos, which are usually topped with cheese, jalapeos, and maybe ground beef.

Where It's Typically Served: Loaded Pulled Pork Totchos are an ideal appetizer or party snack, often served during casual gatherings such as football games, tailgates, and barbecues. Theyre a great choice for serving in a family-style platter, allowing guests to customize their servings. Some restaurants specializing in comfort food or pub fare may offer this dish as part of their appetizer menu, especially those that focus on BBQ or potato-based dishes.

Interesting Facts: The concept of totchos has become increasingly popular over the years due to the rise of "loaded" snack foods. These dishes, where a base (like fries or tater tots) is piled high with toppings, have spread across menus in food trucks and casual dining spots. An interesting fact about Loaded Pulled Pork Totchos is that they are often seen as a crowd-pleaser for large gatherings, as guests enjoy building their own portions with a variety of toppings. Additionally, some variations of the dish include spicy jalapeos, corn, or even guacamole, depending on regional tastes or personal preferences.

FAQ about Loaded Pulled Pork Totchos Recipe

Comments