Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

Hey there! Ready to sink your teeth into a mouthwatering treat? Look no further, because we’ve got the perfect recipe for you: Pulled Pork Sliders! These little delights are packed with juicy, tender pulled pork that’s been slow-cooked to perfection. Topped with a tangy barbecue sauce and nestled between soft, pillowy buns, these sliders are the ultimate comfort food that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to indulge in some delicious sliders, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your taste buds. So let’s get cooking and discover the irresistible world of Pulled Pork Sliders!

Ingredients

To make delicious pulled pork sliders, you will need the following ingredients:

Pork shoulder

The star of this recipe is a pork shoulder, also known as pork butt. This cut of meat is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender and juicy when cooked for a long period of time.

Barbecue sauce

The rich and tangy flavor of barbecue sauce is a must-have for pulled pork sliders. You can use store-bought barbecue sauce or make your own homemade sauce if you prefer. Either way, it adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.

Slider buns

Slider buns are mini-sized hamburger buns that are the perfect size for pulled pork sliders. They are soft and slightly sweet, and they hold up well to the juicy pulled pork and toppings.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw adds a refreshing and crunchy element to the pulled pork sliders. It’s typically made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. The creaminess balances out the richness of the pork and barbecue sauce.

Onion

Adding thinly sliced onions to the sliders can add a hint of sweetness and a nice crunch. You can use red or white onions, depending on your preference.

Pickles

For a tangy and zesty kick, include some pickles in your pulled pork sliders. They add a contrasting flavor and texture that complements the savory pulled pork.

Spices

To enhance the flavor of the pork, you will need some spices. The basic spices needed for this recipe include paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. These spices will give the pork a deliciously seasoned taste.

Butter

Butter is used to toast the slider buns, giving them a golden and slightly crispy exterior. It adds an extra layer of richness to the sliders.

Preparation

Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, let’s go through each step of the preparation process:

Preparing the pork shoulder

Start by trimming any excess fat and skin from the pork shoulder. This will ensure that the meat cooks evenly and allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to remove any moisture.

Seasoning the pork shoulder

In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to create a rub. Massage the rub onto the pork shoulder, making sure to coat the entire surface evenly. This will add flavor to the meat as it cooks.

Slow cooking the pork shoulder

Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. Cooking the meat slowly will result in juicy and flavorful pulled pork that easily shreds apart.

Shredding the pork shoulder

Once the pork shoulder is cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and use two forks to shred the meat. Pull the forks in opposite directions to separate the pork into small, bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess fat or skin.

Preparing the barbecue sauce

While the pork is cooking, you can prepare the barbecue sauce. If using store-bought sauce, simply heat it up in a saucepan over low heat. If making your own, combine your chosen ingredients in a saucepan and simmer until the flavors meld together.

Preparing the coleslaw

In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and your preferred creamy coleslaw dressing. Toss everything together until the vegetables are coated with the dressing. The coleslaw can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to use.

Toasting the slider buns

Slice the slider buns in half horizontally and spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and place the bun halves, cut-side down, in the pan. Toast them until golden brown and slightly crispy.

Assembling the sliders

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Take a toasted slider bun and spread a spoonful of barbecue sauce on the bottom half. Add a generous portion of shredded pork on top of the sauce. Top with some coleslaw, thinly sliced onions, and a few pickles. Finally, place the other half of the bun on top to complete the slider.

Step-by-step Instructions

Now that you’re familiar with the preparation process, let’s break down each step in detail:

Step 1: Preparing the pork shoulder

• Trim any excess fat and skin from the pork shoulder.
• Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to remove any moisture.

Step 2: Seasoning the pork shoulder

• In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
• Massage the spice rub onto the pork shoulder, coating the entire surface evenly.

Step 3: Slow cooking the pork shoulder

• Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker.
• Cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.

Step 4: Shredding the pork shoulder

• Transfer the cooked pork shoulder to a cutting board.
• Use two forks to shred the meat, pulling in opposite directions.
• Discard any excess fat or skin.

Step 5: Preparing the barbecue sauce

• Heat store-bought barbecue sauce in a saucepan over low heat, or make your own homemade sauce by combining ingredients in a saucepan and simmering.

Step 6: Preparing the coleslaw

• In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and creamy coleslaw dressing.
• Toss until the vegetables are coated with the dressing.

Step 7: Toasting the slider buns

• Slice the slider buns in half horizontally.
• Spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides.
• Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and toast the bun halves, cut-side down, until golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 8: Assembling the sliders

• Take a toasted slider bun and spread a spoonful of barbecue sauce on the bottom half.
• Add a generous portion of shredded pork on top of the sauce.
• Top with coleslaw, thinly sliced onions, and pickles.
• Place the other half of the bun on top to complete the slider.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your pulled pork sliders:

Choosing the right cut of pork

• While pork shoulder is the traditional choice, you can also try using pork loin or a combination of both for a leaner option.
• Bone-in or boneless pork shoulder can be used, but boneless is easier to handle and shred.

Marinating the pork shoulder

• For extra flavor, marinate the pork shoulder overnight in your favorite marinade before cooking.
• Simply combine the marinade ingredients, such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs, and let the pork shoulder soak for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Adding different spices and flavors

• Customize the spice rub by adding other spices like cumin, chili powder, or brown sugar to create your own signature flavor.
• If you like heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Using different types of buns

• While slider buns are the traditional choice, don’t be afraid to explore different options. Brioche buns, pretzel buns, or even mini baguettes can add a unique twist to your sliders.

Serving suggestions

• Serve pulled pork sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.
• Offer a variety of condiments, such as extra barbecue sauce, mustard, or hot sauce, for guests to customize their sliders.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about making pulled pork sliders:

Can I use a different type of meat?

• Yes, although pork shoulder is the traditional choice, you can use other cuts of meat such as beef chuck roast or chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How long should I cook the pork shoulder?

• Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the pork shoulder and your slow cooker. A general guideline is to cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds apart.

Can I make the sliders ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the sliders just before serving. This makes them a great option for parties or gatherings.

How should I store leftover pulled pork sliders?

• Store any leftover pulled pork, coleslaw, and slider buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Reheat the pork in a saucepan over low heat, or in the microwave in short intervals, until warmed through.
• Assemble the sliders just before serving to ensure the buns stay fresh.

Conclusion

Pulled pork sliders are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender and flavorful pulled pork with tangy barbecue sauce, refreshing coleslaw, and other delicious toppings. With a few simple steps and a slow cooker, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will wow your family and friends. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue, pulled pork sliders are always a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and get ready to enjoy these scrumptious sliders!