These low carb 3-ingredient pulled pork Ellsworth crisps are the kind of retro snack that feels both simple and a little genius, which is probably why a handwritten recipe card could stay in the family for decades. They turn a few everyday ingredients into crispy, savory bites with browned cheese edges and tender pulled pork tucked into every piece, making them perfect when you need an easy appetizer that feels special without a lot of prep.
Serve these warm from the pan with dill pickles, a little ranch or sour cream for dipping, and a crisp slaw on the side if you want to round them out into a light lunch. They also fit right in on a game-day spread with deviled eggs, veggie sticks, and a tray of other finger foods, and they pair especially well with sparkling water, iced tea, or a cold light beer.
Low Carb 3-Ingredient Pulled Pork Ellsworth Crisps
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cooked pulled pork, lightly chopped if strands are very long
1 tablespoon sugar-free barbecue seasoning or dry rub
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a large baking sheet or foil tray with parchment paper for easy release and cleanup.
2. In a medium bowl, toss the pulled pork with the barbecue seasoning until the meat is evenly coated.
3. Spoon small mounds of shredded cheese onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart, then top each mound with a small pinch of the seasoned pulled pork.
4. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and deeply golden around the edges.
5. Let the crisps cool on the pan for 5 minutes so they firm up, then carefully lift them off with a thin spatula and serve warm.
6. Arrange on a platter or serve straight from the tray while still crisp and cheesy.
Variations & Tips
Use rotisserie-style pork: If you have leftover pulled pork from another meal, this recipe comes together incredibly fast. Just make sure the meat is not too wet, since extra sauce can keep the cheese from crisping properly.
Cheese choice: Sharp cheddar gives the best balance of flavor and structure, but a cheddar-mozzarella blend works if you want a slightly milder bite. Avoid very soft cheeses on their own, since they can spread too much.
Make them spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or a spicy dry rub to the pork for a little heat. This is an easy way to make one batch mild and another batch bolder for parties.
Keep portions small: Smaller mounds bake more evenly and get those irresistible lacy edges. If you make them too large, the centers can stay softer than the outside.
Best timing for serving: These are at their crispiest within the first 15 to 20 minutes after baking, so they are ideal for baking right before guests arrive. If needed, rewarm them for a few minutes in the oven instead of the microwave to bring back some crispness.