Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos are a delightful fusion of traditional nachos and Southern barbecue flavors. This inventive appetizer replaces tortilla chips with crispy tater tots, topped with tender pulled pork, melted pepper Jack cheese, tangy barbecue sauce, and a medley of fresh garnishes. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a hearty snack, these totchos offer a unique and satisfying experience that pays homage to Memphis’s rich barbecue heritage.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 (28-ounce) package frozen bite-size potato nuggets (such as Extra Crispy Tater Tots)
• 2 cups shredded pepper Jack cheese
• 2 cups cooked pulled pork
• ½ cup chopped white onion
• ¼ cup chopped pickled jalapeño peppers
• ½ cup barbecue sauce (such as Cattlemen’s)
• 1 cup prepared coleslaw (optional)
• 1 bunch green onions, sliced

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Bake Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Shake the baking sheet to turn the tots, then continue baking until they are extra crispy, an additional 20 to 24 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. Assemble Totchos: Top the crispy tater tots with shredded pepper Jack cheese, pulled pork, chopped white onion, and pickled jalapeño peppers. Drizzle the barbecue sauce evenly over the toppings.
4. Broil: Place the assembled totchos under the broiler until the cheese starts to bubble and melt, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and, if desired, top with prepared coleslaw and sliced green onions. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving:

• Calories: 619
• Total Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 1,675mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 57g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 32g

Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite

Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos bring together the smoky, savory flavors of Southern barbecue with the crispy crunch of tater tots, creating an irresistible appetizer or snack. This unique dish is a creative fusion of two beloved comfort foods: traditional nachos and Memphis-style pulled pork. Instead of tortilla chips, this recipe uses crispy tater tots as the base, providing a golden, crunchy texture that perfectly complements the tender barbecue pork, melted cheese, and bold toppings.

The Origins of Totchos and the Memphis BBQ Influence

The concept of “totchos” originated as a playful take on nachos, replacing tortilla chips with tater tots for a crispy and hearty base. While nachos have Mexican roots, totchos have become a popular dish in the U.S., offering a fun and customizable alternative to the classic snack.

Why Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos Are a Must-Try

This dish stands out for several reasons:

• Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures: The crispy tater tots, tender pulled pork, and gooey cheese create a satisfying combination of crunch, smokiness, and creaminess.
• Crowd-Pleasing and Shareable: Whether you’re serving these for a party, family gathering, or casual dinner, they make a fantastic shareable dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Customize: Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos can be easily adapted to suit your preferences, with different cheeses, extra toppings, or variations in barbecue sauce.
• Quick and Convenient: Using frozen tater tots and pre-cooked pulled pork makes this recipe easy to prepare in a short amount of time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Key Ingredients That Make This Dish Special

While the basic concept of totchos is simple, the Memphis BBQ twist adds layers of complexity and depth of flavor. Here are some of the standout ingredients that make this dish unique:

• Tater Tots: These provide a crispy, golden-brown base that holds up well under the weight of the toppings. Unlike traditional nachos, tater tots have a fluffier interior, offering a satisfying contrast to the other ingredients.
• Memphis-Style Pulled Pork: The star of the dish, this slow-cooked, tender pork is seasoned with a dry rub and paired with a tangy barbecue sauce. The smokiness of the pork enhances the dish’s bold flavors.
• Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a creamy, slightly spicy element that melts beautifully over the tater tots and pulled pork. Other cheese options, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, can also be used.
• Barbecue Sauce: A rich and flavorful sauce ties the dish together, adding a sweet, tangy, and smoky profile. Memphis-style barbecue sauce, typically tomato-based with a hint of molasses, is ideal for this recipe.
• Pickled Jalapeños: These provide a spicy, tangy kick that balances the richness of the pork and cheese.
• Coleslaw (Optional): A fresh and crunchy topping that adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty ingredients. The cool creaminess of coleslaw complements the warm, smoky elements of the dish.

Best Ways to Serve Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos

One of the great things about this dish is its versatility. Here are a few serving suggestions to make the most of your totchos experience:

• As a Party Appetizer: Serve on a large platter with plenty of napkins and extra barbecue sauce for dipping. Guests can scoop up portions easily, making it a fantastic finger food.
• Game Day Snack: Totchos are perfect for watching sports with friends and family. Pair them with other game-day favorites like wings, sliders, and dips.
• Main Course: While commonly enjoyed as an appetizer, this dish can also be served as a hearty meal with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
• Build-Your-Own Totchos Bar: For gatherings, set up a self-serve station where guests can customize their totchos with additional toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, or crumbled bacon.

Healthier Alternatives and Customizations

While Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos are a decadent dish, there are several ways to lighten them up or modify them to fit different dietary needs:

• Baked Tater Tots: Opt for baking the tater tots instead of frying them to reduce excess oil and calories.
• Leaner Protein Options: Instead of pork, try using shredded chicken or turkey for a lower-fat alternative.
• Dairy-Free or Vegan Option: Substitute dairy-free cheese and use plant-based pulled “pork” made from jackfruit for a vegan-friendly version.
• Less Sodium: Choose a lower-sodium barbecue sauce and seasonings to make the dish healthier.
• More Vegetables: Increase the veggie content by adding diced bell peppers, onions, avocado, or roasted corn.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them for the best taste and texture:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating in the Oven: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tots soggy.
• Reheating in an Air Fryer: Air fry at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Variations to Try

If you love the concept of totchos, there are endless ways to customize the dish and try new flavor combinations:

• Buffalo Chicken Totchos: Swap out the barbecue pork for shredded buffalo chicken, drizzled with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
• Tex-Mex Totchos: Use seasoned ground beef, black beans, jalapeños, and a drizzle of queso for a nacho-inspired version.
• Breakfast Totchos: Top with scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and avocado for a morning twist.
• Loaded BBQ Brisket Totchos: Replace pulled pork with smoked brisket for an even richer barbecue experience.

Conclusion

Memphis BBQ Pork Totchos are a bold and flavorful dish that combines the best elements of Southern barbecue and crispy tater tots. This recipe is easy to make, fun to customize, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests, watching the game, or simply craving a delicious comfort food meal.