Trailer Park Hillbilly Style from Torchy's Tacos features juicy pulled pork, smoky bacon, and tangy barbecue sauce wrapped in a warm, soft tortilla, topped with melted cheddar and fresh jalapenos for a bold, savory flavor with a spicy kick.
Equipments
- Slow cooker or Dutch oven
- Skillet or frying pan
- Oven or broiler
- Cheese grater
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Aluminum foil
- Serving platter or plate
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) pork shoulder
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 fresh jalapenos
- Salt
- Black pepper
Pulled pork shoulder is the star ingredient and should be cooked low and slow for tender, juicy results. Use thick-cut bacon for a smokier flavor that complements the barbecue sauce perfectly. Fresh jalapenos add a spicy kick, so adjust their quantity to suit your heat preference. Shredded cheddar cheese melts well and provides a rich, creamy texture that balances the tangy barbecue sauce. Your recreation of Trailer Park Hillbilly Style from Torchy's Tacos will bring bold, smoky, and spicy flavors straight to your table with these key ingredients.
Instructions
- Season pork shoulder with salt and black pepper.
- Place pork shoulder in slow cooker or Dutch oven.
- Cook pork shoulder until tender and easily shredded (slow cooker: 6-8 hours on low; Dutch oven: 3-4 hours at 325°F/163°C).
- Shred cooked pork using tongs or forks.
- Cook bacon in skillet or frying pan until crispy; drain on paper towels.
- Chop bacon into small pieces on cutting board.
- Slice jalapenos with chef's knife.
- Warm tortillas using a skillet, oven, or broiler.
- Mix shredded pork with barbecue sauce in mixing bowl.
- Place a portion of pulled pork onto each tortilla.
- Top with chopped bacon.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add sliced fresh jalapenos.
- Place tacos under broiler or in oven to melt cheese, if desired.
- Remove and wrap with aluminum foil for a few minutes to keep warm.
- Serve tacos on a platter or plate.
Substitution
Trailer Park Hillbilly Style from Torchy's Tacos copycat menu calls for tender pulled pork and smoky bacon to create its signature rich flavor. If pork shoulder is unavailable, you can substitute with pork butt, which offers similar marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked. When fresh jalapenos are out of season, pickled jalapenos or mild green chilies provide a comparable spicy note without overwhelming your palate. Ensure your tortillas are warmed and pliable by wrapping them in foil and briefly heating in the oven before assembly. Using a cast iron skillet for crisping bacon enhances the smoky aroma and adds texture to your dish.
Tips
Ensure your pork shoulder is cooked low and slow for maximum tenderness, making it easier to shred with tongs or forks. When frying bacon, drain excess grease on paper towels to keep pieces crisp and flavorful. Slice fresh jalapenos carefully, removing seeds if you prefer a milder heat in your Trailer Park Hillbilly Style tacos. Warm your tortillas just before assembling to prevent them from becoming dry or brittle when topped with the pork, cheese, and jalapenos.
Nutritions
Trailer Park Hillbilly Style from Torchy's Tacos is a protein-rich meal primarily due to the 2 lbs of pork shoulder and 6 slices of bacon, both excellent sources of muscle-building amino acids. The dish also provides a good amount of fat, mainly from the bacon and cheddar cheese, contributing to satiety and flavor. Fresh jalapenos add minimal calories but pack a vitamin C boost and capsaicin, which may promote metabolism. You can enjoy this hearty meal while being mindful of its relatively high sodium and fat content, balancing it with lighter sides or fresh vegetables.
Storage
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain its juicy texture and smoky flavor. Wrap any remaining assembled tacos in aluminum foil before refrigerating to preserve melted cheese and freshness. Reheat your stored tacos in an oven or skillet to restore crispness and warmth without compromising taste.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute pork shoulder with pulled chicken or beef brisket for a different protein base. Try using smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar to vary the flavor profile. For less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapenos or replace them with mild green bell peppers. Instead of broiling, melt the cheese by covering the assembled tacos with foil and letting residual heat soften it.
Allergies
Trailer Park Hillbilly Style from Torchy's Tacos contains common allergens such as pork and dairy from the bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. The flour tortillas include gluten, which can trigger reactions in people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, it's important to check for substitutes or avoid this dish to keep your meal safe.
Why this recipe?
Torchy's Tacos Trailer Park Hillbilly Style menu stands out with its bold combination of crispy fried chicken, green chilies, and creamy melted cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla, delivering a unique Tex-Mex flavor fusion. The balanced mix of spicy, savory, and crunchy textures creates a satisfying and memorable eating experience that keeps customers coming back. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this iconic taste at home, offering a cost-effective and customizable option for taco lovers. Your homemade version ensures fresh ingredients and the ability to adjust spice levels, enhancing every bite to fit your personal palate.