Tender BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe with Crunchy Slaw

Let me tell you, the scent of smoky, saucy pulled pork simmering away in the kitchen is the kind of aroma that stops you in your tracks. Pair that with the crunch of a fresh, tangy slaw nestled between two soft slider buns, and you’ve got the kind of bite that feels like summer in every mouthful. The first time I made these BBQ pulled pork sliders, it was one of those “where have you been all my life” moments. I was hosting a casual backyard get-together, and these sliders stole the show. They were gone before I could even grab seconds!

Honestly, this recipe is now my go-to for gatherings, game days, or even just a cozy weekend dinner. My family can’t resist sneaking bites while I assemble them, and it’s such a joy to watch the smiles they bring. There’s something undeniably satisfying about tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork paired with a crunchy slaw that balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. Plus, they’re dangerously easy to make. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one—it’s a keeper!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly tender pork: These sliders deliver shredded pork so juicy and flavorful, it practically melts in your mouth.
• Quick prep and easy cooking: While the pork does need time to cook, the steps are simple, straightforward, and beginner-friendly.
• Great for gatherings: Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a party spread, or even a weeknight dinner, these sliders are guaranteed to please.
• Simple ingredients: You don’t need fancy or hard-to-find items—just pantry staples and fresh veggies for the slaw.
• Unbeatable flavor combo: The tangy slaw perfectly complements the smoky, sweet BBQ pork, creating an irresistible bite.

These sliders are a game-changer because they’re not just your run-of-the-mill pulled pork recipe. The slaw adds a refreshing crunch, the sauce is perfectly balanced, and the buns soak up all the juicy goodness without falling apart. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to when you want to impress without breaking a sweat—and it always delivers.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create a bold, flavorful dish. Most of these are pantry staples or easy-to-find items at your local grocery store.

• Pork shoulder: Also known as pork butt, this cut is ideal for slow cooking (look for a 3-4 lb piece).
• BBQ sauce: Your favorite brand works, but homemade is always a treat! Choose one with a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the cooking process.
• Brown sugar: For a touch of sweetness that balances the smoky flavors.
• Apple cider vinegar: This adds a subtle tang and helps tenderize the meat.
• Garlic powder: For a savory depth in the seasoning.
• Onion powder: Adds a hint of sweetness and savory goodness.
• Smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor of the pork.
• Salt and pepper: To season the meat to perfection.
• Slider buns: Soft and slightly sweet buns work best. Brioche or Hawaiian rolls are delicious options.
• For the slaw:
• Shredded cabbage: Both green and purple cabbage work well for color and crunch.
• Carrots: Shredded or julienned for extra texture.
• Mayonnaise: The base for the creamy slaw dressing.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the slaw.
• Honey: Balances the tanginess with a touch of sweetness.
• Apple cider vinegar: Ties the flavors together with a tangy finish.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning the dressing.

Optional: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the slaw for a spicy twist or swap out the cabbage for a pre-made coleslaw mix for a shortcut.

Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker or Dutch oven: These are ideal for cooking the pork low and slow.
• Mixing bowls: For preparing the slaw and seasoning the pork.
• Shredding forks: Two forks work perfectly to shred the cooked pork.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping the slaw ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix the slaw dressing until smooth.
• Tongs: Useful for assembling the sliders.

If you don’t have a slow cooker, a sturdy Dutch oven works just as well—it just requires a little more monitoring. For shredding the pork, you can also use meat claws if you have them—the process becomes super quick!

Preparation Method

1. Season the pork: Rub the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Make sure it’s evenly coated.
2. Prepare the cooking liquid: Mix the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Pour it over the seasoned pork.
3. Cook the pork: Place the pork in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours (or high for 4-5 hours). If using a Dutch oven, cook in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 4 hours.
4. Shred the pork: Once cooked and tender, remove the pork from the cooking vessel and shred it using two forks.
5. Make the slaw: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Toss this dressing with shredded cabbage and carrots.
6. Assemble the sliders: Toast the slider buns lightly if desired. Add a generous portion of pulled pork to the bottom bun, top with a scoop of slaw, and place the top bun. Serve immediately!

Tip: If your pork isn’t shredding easily, it might need a little more cooking time. Check for tenderness by poking it with a fork—it should fall apart effortlessly.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Getting the perfect BBQ pulled pork sliders comes down to a few key tricks:

• Use a well-marbled pork shoulder for maximum tenderness.
• Don’t rush the cooking process—low and slow is the way to go for juicy, flavorful meat.
• If your pork seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or BBQ sauce while shredding.
• Toast your slider buns for added texture and flavor.
• Let the slaw sit for 10-15 minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to meld.

Also, don’t skip the seasoning step—it’s what gives the pork its deep flavor foundation!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to switch things up:

• Dietary options: Use gluten-free slider buns for a gluten-free version or opt for lettuce wraps as a low-carb alternative.
• Seasonal twist: Add fresh summer fruits like diced peaches or mango to the slaw for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Spicy flair: Mix sriracha into the BBQ sauce for a kick of heat or add jalapeños to the slaw.
• Meat swap: Try using shredded chicken or beef if pork isn’t your thing—it’s equally delicious!

Personally, I’ve tried these sliders with a fiery chipotle BBQ sauce and added roasted corn to the slaw—it was heavenly!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These sliders are best served warm, straight from the kitchen. Arrange them on a large platter with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Pair them with classic sides like baked beans, potato salad, or corn on the cob for a complete meal. A cold glass of lemonade or iced tea is the perfect finishing touch!

If you have leftovers, store the pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The slaw should be stored separately to retain its crunch—consume within 2 days for best texture. Reheat the pork gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of BBQ sauce to revive the flavor.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect per slider:

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on bun size and sauce).
• Protein: 15-20g from the pork.
• Healthy fats: From mayo and pork (choose lean cuts for lower fat content).
• Vitamins: Cabbage and carrots provide a boost of Vitamin C and fiber.

Pork is a great source of protein and essential vitamins like B6 and B12, while the slaw contributes healthy antioxidants. For gluten-free or low-carb options, adjust the buns or swap them for lettuce wraps.

Conclusion

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate BBQ pulled pork sliders recipe, look no further. These sliders are everything you could ask for—tender, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with a crunchy slaw. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Feel free to customize it to suit your tastes—it’s forgiving and flexible, which makes it even more fun to make. I’d love to hear how yours turned out, so drop a comment below and let me know. Happy cooking, and may your sliders be as satisfying as they are delicious!

FAQs

Can I make the pulled pork ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the pork a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a little BBQ sauce to keep it moist.

Can I use store-bought slaw instead of making it from scratch?

Yes! Pre-made coleslaw mix is a great shortcut. Just toss it with the homemade dressing for a personal touch.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Swap out the slider buns for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Double-check that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free too.

Can I freeze the pulled pork?

Definitely! Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat with extra sauce for best results.

What’s the best way to shred the pork?

Two forks work perfectly, but if you have meat claws or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, those are great options too!

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