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Pulled pork sliders are the perfect addition to your game day lineup! These bite-sized sandwiches are packed with flavor and are incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting friends for the big game or just craving some delicious comfort food, these sliders topped with tender pulled pork and sesame seeds will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pulled pork sliders are not just tasty; they’re also simple to make and perfect for any gathering. Here’s why you’ll want to whip these up:
- Flavor-packed: The smoky, savory pulled pork is a crowd-pleaser.
- Easy to make: A slow cooker does most of the work for you.
- Customizable: Dress them up with your favorite toppings.
- Perfect for sharing: Ideal size for parties and gatherings.
- Quick assembly: Minimal prep time means more time to enjoy the game!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 12 slider buns
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for topping)
- Coleslaw (optional, for serving)
How to Make Pulled Pork Sliders
- Start by preparing your spice rub. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover all sides.
- Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Pour 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce over the top, reserving the rest for later.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat and return the shredded pork to the cooker.
- Add the remaining barbecue sauce to the shredded pork and stir to combine. Let it warm through for about 15-20 minutes.
- While the pork is warming, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the slider buns on a baking sheet and toast them lightly for about 5 minutes.
- Assemble the sliders by placing a generous scoop of pulled pork on the bottom half of each bun. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top, add coleslaw if desired, and place the bun tops on.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the game!
Tips for the Best Results
- For added flavor, marinate the pork overnight with the spice rub.
- Use a quality barbecue sauce that you love for the best taste.
- Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the slow cooker for a tangy twist.
- If you prefer a crispy texture, finish the assembled sliders under the broiler for a couple of minutes.
Easy Variations
- Swap out the pork for chicken thighs or beef brisket for a different flavor profile.
- Try using different barbecue sauces, such as spicy, honey, or mustard-based.
- Add sliced jalapeños or pickles for an extra kick.
- Serve with a variety of toppings like crispy onions or avocado slices.
What to Serve With It
- Crispy potato chips or sweet potato fries
- Fresh vegetable platter with dip
- Classic baked beans
- Macaroni and cheese
- A refreshing green salad
Storage and Reheating
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Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. The sliders can also be assembled and stored in the refrigerator; just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 12 slider buns
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for topping)
- Coleslaw (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing your spice rub. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover all sides.
3. Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Pour 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce over the top, reserving the rest for later.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
5. Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat and return the shredded pork to the cooker.
6. Add the remaining barbecue sauce to the shredded pork and stir to combine. Let it warm through for about 15-20 minutes.
7. While the pork is warming, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the slider buns on a baking sheet and toast them lightly for about 5 minutes.
8. Assemble the sliders by placing a generous scoop of pulled pork on the bottom half of each bun. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top, add coleslaw if desired, and place the bun tops on.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy the game!
Notes: For added flavor, marinate the pork overnight with the spice rub.
