Irresistible BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders: Perfect for Parties and Game Days

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Introduction: Why BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders Are a Crowd Favorite

When it comes to party food or casual gatherings, few dishes rival the popularity of BBQ pulled pork sliders. These bite-sized sandwiches are packed with tender, smoky pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and all the fixings, making them the ultimate finger food. Whether you’re hosting a game day celebration, a backyard BBQ, or just want a fun, flavorful meal, pulled pork sliders are always a hit.

In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create the perfect BBQ pulled pork sliders, complete with a juicy pork shoulder, a rich homemade BBQ sauce, and soft slider buns. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

For the Pulled Pork:

  • 3-4 lb pork shoulder (pork butt)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup chicken or beef broth
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Sliders:

  • 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls or small brioche buns work great)
  • 1 cup coleslaw (optional, for topping)
  • Pickle slices (optional)
  • Extra BBQ sauce (for drizzling)

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

  1. Season the Pork: In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning blend all over the pork shoulder.
  2. Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pulled Pork

Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the seared pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven. Add the broth and cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
  3. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.

Slow Cooker Method:

  1. Transfer the seared pork to a slow cooker. Add the broth and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.

Instant Pot Method:

  1. Place the pork in the Instant Pot, add the broth, and set to pressure cook on high for 60 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Shred and Sauce the Pork

  1. Shred the Pork: Once the pork is fully cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and shred it using two forks.
  2. Add BBQ Sauce: Stir in the BBQ sauce, coating the shredded pork evenly. Taste and adjust with more sauce or seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

  1. Toast the Buns (Optional): Lightly toast the slider buns under a broiler or on a griddle for added texture.
  2. Build the Sliders:
    • Place a generous scoop of pulled pork on the bottom half of each bun.
    • Top with coleslaw and pickle slices if desired.
    • Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for added flavor.
    • Place the top bun on and gently press down.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve Warm: Arrange the sliders on a platter and serve immediately.
  2. Pair with Sides: Complement the sliders with classic sides like potato salad, baked beans, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

  1. Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder (or butt) is ideal for pulled pork because of its fat content, which keeps the meat tender and juicy.
  2. Make Ahead: Pulled pork can be made ahead of time and reheated with BBQ sauce, making it perfect for parties or meal prep.
  3. Customize the Toppings: Add jalapeños, cheese, or caramelized onions for a fun twist.
  4. Use Quality BBQ Sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, a good BBQ sauce elevates the flavor of the sliders.
  5. Keep It Warm: Use a slow cooker or warming tray to keep the pulled pork hot during gatherings.

Why BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders Are Perfect for Any Occasion

BBQ pulled pork sliders are versatile, easy to make, and always a hit at parties. Their small size makes them ideal for serving a crowd, and the bold flavors satisfy even the hungriest guests. Plus, the recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on the size of your gathering.

Final Thoughts: A Flavor-Packed Party Favorite

With this recipe, you’ll have tender, saucy pulled pork sliders that are sure to be the star of your next event. They’re quick to assemble, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or an appetizer, BBQ pulled pork sliders are guaranteed to impress. Grab some napkins and dig in!

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