These Pulled Pork Sliders are juicy and full of flavor, perfect for any gathering! Tender pork is slowly cooked and piled high on soft buns with your favorite barbecue sauce.
They’re like little bites of happiness! I love serving them with coleslaw on top for an extra crunch. Trust me, they’re a hit at every party—everyone goes back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut has the right amount of fat for juicy pulled pork. If you can’t find it, try pork butt or even pork tenderloin for a leaner option.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness to balance the spices. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, coconut sugar works well. You can also skip it if you prefer less sweetness.
Barbecue Sauce: Your sauce can really change things up! Use a tangy vinegar-based sauce for a Southern twist, or a sweeter Kansas City style if you like it sweet. Homemade sauce is also fun if you’re feeling adventurous!
Slider Buns: Any soft roll will do, but I love Hawaiian rolls for their slight sweetness. You can also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
How Do I Shred Pork Easily?
Shredding pork is easier than it sounds. Once your pork is cooked and tender, here’s my trick:
- Let the pork cool for a few minutes to avoid burning your hands.
- Use two forks to pull the meat apart; it should come apart effortlessly.
- If you prefer, wearing disposable gloves can make the process less messy!
This method gives you perfect shredded pork ready to mix with your barbecue sauce! Enjoy this tasty process as a part of your cooking adventure.
How to Make Pulled Pork Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 3 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Sliders:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
- 12 slider buns or small soft rolls
- 2 cups coleslaw (prepared or homemade)
- Pickle slices, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 8 hours to cook (or about 4-5 hours if you cook on high). Once it’s ready, you’ll spend another 15 minutes assembling the sliders. So in total, expect around 8 hours and 30 minutes! But don’t worry, most of that time is just the pork cooking away while you relax or do other things!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
First things first, let’s mix up the seasoning! In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you want a little heat. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, covering it well.
2. Cook the Pork:
Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker or a large oven-safe pot. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low for 8 hours. For a quicker method, cook on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork is super tender and shreds easily with a fork!
3. Shred the Pork:
When it’s time, carefully remove the pork from the cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces—it should fall apart without much fuss!
4. Mix with Barbecue Sauce:
Now, transfer the shredded pork to a big bowl. Pour in the barbecue sauce and mix until everything is well coated. Feel free to add more sauce if you like it saucy!
5. Assemble Sliders:
Grab those slider buns and slice them in half. Pile a generous amount of the pulled pork mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
6. Add Toppings:
Next up, it’s time to add some crunch! Spoon a scoop of coleslaw on top of the pork (this adds a delicious tangy crunch). To finish, place 1-2 pickle slices on top of the coleslaw for that extra zing.
7. Serve:
Put the top bun on each slider and serve immediately. Enjoy these sliders warm and watch them disappear fast—perfect for parties or casual meals!
Enjoy your delicious Pulled Pork Sliders — the perfect mix of smoky, tangy, and crunchy in every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its fat content and flavor, you can also use pork butt or even pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Pulled Pork?
Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! To prepare pulled pork in an Instant Pot, season the meat as usual, then cook on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes, followed by a natural release. It will be just as tender and delicious!
What Can I Serve with Pulled Pork Sliders?
Besides coleslaw, consider serving them with potato chips, baked beans, or a refreshing summer salad. You could also add some roasted vegetables or corn on the cob for a complete meal!