If you're craving tender, juicy BBQ pulled pork packed between soft, toasted slider buns, then you've come to the right place! These Southern-inspired sliders have a rich history, with pitmasters perfecting the art of slow-smoking pork for maximum flavor and tenderness. The key is using a high-quality pork shoulder or Boston butt, seasoned to perfection and braised until it practically falls apart. Tossed in a tangy barbecue sauce, the shredded pork creates a mouthwatering filling that pairs perfectly with crunchy pickles and melty cheese. This recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and, if you keep reading, you'll discover even more delicious details. And if you’re looking for a meatless option, you’ll love our delicious vegetarian quesadilla recipe. Packed with a savory blend of grilled vegetables, gooey cheese, and zesty salsa, these quesadillas are a crowd-pleaser for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Whether you’re in the mood for BBQ pulled pork sliders or a veggie-packed quesadilla, we’ve got you covered with mouthwatering recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Key Takeaways
- BBQ pulled pork sliders are a popular handheld meal originating from the slow-smoked barbecue tradition of the Southern United States.
- The recipe involves slow-cooking pork shoulder, shredding the tender meat, and coating it with a flavorful barbecue sauce.
- Toasted slider buns provide a soft, pillowy base to complement the tender pork, creating a balance of textures and flavors.
- Customizable toppings, such as dill pickles and shredded cheese, can enhance the overall taste and dining experience.
- Serving BBQ pulled pork sliders is a great way to create shared moments and lasting memories among diners.
History
The origins of BBQ pulled pork sliders can be traced back to the Southern United States, where slow-smoked barbecue has long been a beloved culinary tradition. For generations, pit masters in the South have perfected the art of slow-cooking pork until it becomes tender and juicy, easily shredding into succulent morsels.
This technique is reminiscent of the preparation methods used for Fried Catfish, another Southern staple that showcases the region's love for flavorful, comfort food. This pulled pork was often served on its own or piled high on buns, creating a satisfying and handheld meal.
As the popularity of barbecue spread throughout the country, creative cooks began reimagining the classic pulled pork sandwich. They started serving it on smaller, slider-sized buns, creating a fun and portable version that was perfect for parties, tailgates, and casual gatherings.
The bite-sized sliders allowed people to sample different barbecue sauces and toppings, adding an element of customization and variety to the dish. Today, BBQ pulled pork sliders have become a beloved comfort food and a staple of Southern-inspired menus across the United States.
Recipe
Savory pulled pork, slow-cooked until tender and infused with the smoky flavors of the grill, makes the perfect filling for these mini BBQ pulled pork sliders. The combination of the sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, juicy pork, and soft slider buns creates a delightful harmony of taste and texture in every bite.
To get the most flavorful results, it's essential to start with a high-quality pork shoulder or Boston butt. The long, slow cooking process allows the connective tissue to break down, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the caramelized barbecue sauce.
- 4-5 lbs pork shoulder or Boston butt
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for serving
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 12-16 slider buns, split
Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F. Season the pork all over with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the pork on the grill or in the smoker and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily. Occasionally baste the pork with the barbecue sauce during the last hour of cooking.
Once the pork is cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and use two forks to shred the meat. Mix the shredded pork with the remaining barbecue sauce. Serve the BBQ pulled pork on the slider buns, garnishing with additional barbecue sauce if desired. Enjoy your delicious BBQ pulled pork sliders!
Cooking Steps
Get ready to bring that pork shoulder to life!
Slow cook it for hours until it's fall-off-the-bone tender, then shred it with two forks.
Coat the shredded pork in your favorite BBQ sauce for that finger-licking good flavor.
Now, toast those buns to perfection and assemble your delicious sliders.
Step 1. Slow Cook Pork Shoulder for Hours
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Take a 3-4 pound pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub the pork all over with a blend of your favorite spices, like brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt.
Place the seasoned pork in a large, oven-safe Dutch oven or baking dish. Pour in some chicken broth or water, just enough to come up about 1/4 inch around the pork. Cover the pot tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
Slide the pot into the preheated oven and let the pork slowly braise for 4-5 hours. The meat should become very tender and easily shred with two forks.
Once done, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Shred the pork right in the pot, mixing it with the flavorful cooking liquid.
You're now ready to assemble your delicious BBQ pulled pork sliders!
Step 2. Shred Pork With Forks
Shredding the tender pork with two forks is the key to achieving the perfect texture for your BBQ pulled pork sliders. Once the pork has been slow-cooked to perfection, it's time to get to work.
Grab a couple of sturdy forks and start gently pulling the meat apart, creating long, stringy strands. Don't be afraid to really dig in and shred the pork thoroughly – the more you tear it apart, the better the final texture will be.
As you shred, be sure to keep an eye on any larger pieces and break them down further. You want the pork to be in fine, delicate shreds that will easily pile onto your slider buns.
It may take a few minutes, but the effort is well worth it. Once the pork is fully shredded, it's ready to be dressed in your favorite BBQ sauce and piled high on those soft, pillowy buns.
Get ready for the ultimate pulled pork experience!
Step 3. Coat Pork With BBQ Sauce
With the pork beautifully shredded, it's time to coat it in your favorite BBQ sauce.
Grab a large bowl and pour in the tangy, sweet sauce. Gently toss the shredded pork with the sauce, making sure every strand is coated. You want the pork to be completely covered, so use your hands to really work the sauce in.
The sauce will cling to the pork, creating a mouthwatering glaze. As you mix, you'll start to smell the incredible aroma of the barbecue flavors. The sticky sauce will make the pork shimmer, just begging to be piled high on those soft slider buns.
Once the pork is perfectly sauced, it's time to start assembling your sliders.
Scoop generous portions of the pulled pork onto the bottom buns, then top with crisp coleslaw and the fluffy tops. The combination of tender pork, tangy sauce, and crunchy slaw is simply irresistible. Get ready for flavor-packed bites that will have your taste buds dancing!
Step 4. Toast Buns Before Assembling
To prepare the slider buns, toast them lightly before assembling. This step adds a delightful crunch and warmth that complements the tender pulled pork perfectly.
Simply place the buns, cut-side up, on a baking sheet and pop them in a preheated oven set to 350°F. Toast for about 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning. You'll know they're ready when the edges start to lightly brown and the buns feel crisp to the touch.
Once toasted, remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly. This brief toasting step seals in the freshness and prevents the buns from getting soggy once the pulled pork is added.
With the buns now ready, you can start assembling your delicious BBQ pulled pork sliders. Spoon the saucy, shredded pork onto the toasted bottoms, then top with the lightly toasted tops. The contrast of the crisp buns and tender pork is simply heavenly.
Step 5. Assemble Sliders With Pork and Buns
Take the tender, saucy pulled pork and generously spoon it onto the toasted slider buns. Spread the pork evenly across the bottom half of each bun, making sure to capture all those delicious juices.
Now, it's time to add the toppings. A few thin slices of crisp dill pickle provide a perfect tangy contrast to the rich pork. Finish with a light sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese – just enough to melt into the hot pork and create a gooey, cheesy delight.
Once your sliders are loaded up, it's time to place the top buns on and give them a gentle press to seal everything together. The soft, toasted bread will soak up all the mouthwatering barbecue flavors, creating a harmonious bite in every slider.
Arrange your assembled sliders on a serving platter and get ready to enjoy this tasty handheld feast! The combination of tender pork, tangy pickles, and melty cheese is sure to have your taste buds dancing.
Final Thoughts
As the sun sets on your BBQ pulled pork slider feast, let the aroma-filled memories linger. You savored each bite, the tender pork melting in your mouth, its bold flavors dancing on your tongue.
The soft, pillowy buns cradled the succulent meat, creating the perfect balance of textures. Looking around, you see empty plates and satisfied smiles.
The laughter and conversation that filled the air now give way to a sense of contentment. This meal was more than just food – it was an experience to be shared and cherished.
As you clean up, you can't help but feel a twinge of sadness that it's over. But you know the joy of these sliders will live on, not just in your memory, but in the hearts and stomachs of your loved ones.
The next time you fire up the grill, be sure to make an extra batch – these BBQ pulled pork sliders are sure to be a hit time and time again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Pork Is Best for Pulled Pork?
For the best pulled pork, you'll want to use a pork shoulder or Boston butt. These fattier cuts of pork become deliciously tender and shredded when slow-cooked, making them perfect for creating that classic, mouthwatering pulled pork.
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Pulled Pork?
Leftover pulled pork can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage before reheating and consuming any leftover pork to ensure food safety.
Can I Make Pulled Pork Ahead of Time?
You can absolutely make pulled pork ahead of time. It'll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months, so you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.
What's the Best Way to Reheat Pulled Pork?
To reheat pulled pork, you can place it in a covered saucepan or slow cooker on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, being careful not to overcook it.
Can I Freeze Pulled Pork for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze pulled pork for later use. Freeze it in airtight containers or freezer bags, and it'll stay fresh for 3-4 months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
You're gonna love these BBQ pulled pork sliders! They're the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and oh-so-tender. Pile the juicy pork high on those soft, pillowy buns and get ready for your taste buds to do a happy dance. Trust me, these sliders are a surefire crowd-pleaser that'll have you coming back for more. Dig in and enjoy every delectable bite!
Chloe is the go-to for classic Southern comfort food. From buttery biscuits to crispy fried chicken, Chloe knows how to whip up soul-warming meals that make you feel at home. She also loves hosting outdoor barbecues and picnics, bringing a touch of Southern hospitality to every dish.
