Easy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

Are you searching for a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of Southern BBQ? Look no further! This easy BBQ pulled pork sliders recipe is your ultimate guide to creating flavor-packed, tender sliders that everyone will love. Originating from the barbecue traditions of the southern United States, pulled pork is made by slow-cooking pork shoulder until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender. When piled high on soft slider buns with a generous helping of tangy BBQ sauce, it transforms into a delectable dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, family gathering, or a casual weeknight dinner, these homemade BBQ pulled pork sliders from scratch will leave your taste buds singing praises.

With prep time taking just 20 minutes and slow cooking requiring a few hours, this recipe is designed for convenience without sacrificing taste. Plus, we’ll delve into variations, including options for those seeking vegan BBQ pulled pork sliders without compromising on flavor. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started creating a delicious feast!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) or 4 hours (oven)
Total Time: Approximately 8-10 hours (depending on method)
Servings: 12 sliders

Ingredients

For the Pulled Pork Filling:

4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegan option)

For the BBQ Sauce:

2 cups BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or vegan Worcestershire sauce)

For the Sliders:

12 slider buns (use whole wheat or gluten-free for alternatives)
Coleslaw (optional for topping)

Ingredient Swaps:

Use almond milk instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Swap pork with jackfruit for an easy vegan BBQ pulled pork sliders option.

Equipment List

Large cutting board
Sharp knife
Slow cooker (or a large oven-safe pot)
Mixing bowl
Basting brush (optional for sauce application)
Meat thermometer (recommended)
Tongs or fork for shredding
Serving platter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pork: Start by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cutting excess fat will help in achieving tender meat without unnecessary greasiness.
Mix the Dry Rub: In a mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. This blend will infuse the meat with smoky, sweet flavors.
Rub the Mixture: Generously apply the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring all sides are evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker. Pour chicken broth around the pork, ensuring it doesn’t wash off the rub. If using the oven, preheat it to 300°F (150°C) and seal the pork in a covered Dutch oven.
Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for about 8 hours. If using the oven, cook for about 4 hours, turning the meat halfway through. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 190-205°F (88-96°C) for pull-apart tenderness.
Shred the Meat: Once cooked, transfer the pork to a large platter and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Use two forks or tongs to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any remaining fat.
Mix the BBQ Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Adjust the flavors to your liking, adding a touch more vinegar if you prefer a tangy bite.
Combine Pork and Sauce: Mix the shredded pork with the BBQ sauce, ensuring it is well-coated. This is where the magic happens—each bite should be flavorful and juicy!
Assemble the Sliders: Slice the slider buns in half and layer the BBQ pulled pork on the bottom half. Top with coleslaw if desired for added crunch.
Serve: Place the top of the buns over the pork, secure with a toothpick if needed, and serve warm. Your easy BBQ pulled pork sliders are now ready to be savored!

Special Notes

Storing: Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating: To reheat, place pulled pork in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of BBQ sauce or broth to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the pulled pork a day in advance and assemble the sliders just before serving to keep the buns fresh.
Troubleshooting: If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water or broth until the desired consistency is achieved.

Variations and Customizations

Vegan Option: Substitute pork for pulled jackfruit, sauté in olive oil with spices, and follow the same sauce preparation for vegan BBQ pulled pork sliders.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free slider buns and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well.
Low-Carb: Serve the pulled pork on lettuce wraps instead of buns for a low-carb alternative.
Extra Toppings: Add sliced jalapeños, pickles, or avocado slices for an extra flavor kick!

Nutritional Information (Per Slider)

Calories: Approximately 300
Protein: 26g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare your BBQ pulled pork sliders, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible savory aroma from the slow-cooked pork, inviting your family and friends to gather around. The sight of juicy, shredded pork glistening in rich BBQ sauce will set the stage for a feast. When served, the sliders should look hearty with the pulled pork spilling slightly over the edges, while the soft buns provide a beautiful contrast. Consider capturing these moments with images, from the raw meat in its spice rub to the finished sliders stacked high on a plate, ready for bites of bliss.

Conclusion

Creating your own easy BBQ pulled pork sliders is not only simple but incredibly rewarding. The tender, flavorful pulled pork, combined with your choice of toppings, provides a delightful culinary experience that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether for a festive occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, these sliders will have everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t wait any longer—try this recipe and savor the deliciousness yourself! Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! Don’t forget to share photos of your delicious creation on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish!