Looking for the best BBQ pulled pork sliders recipe? These bite-sized sandwiches are juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for game day, parties, or a quick family dinner. Made with tender slow-cooked pork and smothered in your favorite BBQ sauce, these sliders are easy to prepare and always a crowd favorite.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make pulled pork from scratch, tips for the best toppings, and side dishes that pair perfectly. Whether you’re using a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven, this recipe guarantees fall-apart tender pulled pork every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Make – Slow-cooked or Instant Pot pulled pork does most of the work for you.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, picnics, or family dinners.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite toppings like coleslaw, pickles, or cheese.
✔ Good Source of Protein – Pulled pork provides high-quality protein for muscle repair and energy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pulled Pork:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- ½ cup chicken broth or apple cider vinegar
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup coleslaw (optional, for topping)
- Pickles (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare & Cook the Pulled Pork
- Season the Meat – Rub olive oil over the pork, then coat with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Slow Cooker Method: Place the pork in a slow cooker with BBQ sauce and broth. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until fork-tender.
- Instant Pot Method: Add pork, BBQ sauce, and broth to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then natural release for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Shred & Sauce
- Use two forks to shred the pork directly in the pot. Stir well to coat in the BBQ sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Slice the slider buns in half.
- Pile on the pulled pork.
- Add coleslaw and pickles if using.
- Place the top buns on.
Step 4: Toast & Serve
- Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until warm and golden.
Nutrition Information (Per Slider)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 |
| Protein | ~18g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fat | ~12g |
| Saturated Fat | ~4g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sugar | ~8g |
| Sodium | ~500mg |
Values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
Health Benefits of BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
🍖 Rich in Protein – Pork is a great source of protein, essential for muscle growth and recovery.
🔥 Boosts Metabolism – Protein-rich foods help keep you fuller for longer and support weight management.
🥩 Source of Essential Nutrients – Pork contains B vitamins (B6 & B12), which support brain function and energy levels.
🥦 Can Be Made Healthier – Use whole wheat buns, low-sugar BBQ sauce, and add fresh coleslaw for extra fiber.
Tips for the Best BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
🔥 Use Hawaiian rolls for a sweet contrast to the smoky pork.
🔥 Make it spicy – Add jalapeños or spicy BBQ sauce.
🔥 Meal prep friendly – Pulled pork can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Pairing Suggestions
These sliders go great with:
- Sweet potato fries
- Cornbread
- Mac & cheese
- Baked beans
Some FAQs
1. Can I make pulled pork ahead of time?
Yes! Pulled pork can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker with a bit of extra BBQ sauce to keep it moist. You can also freeze pulled pork for up to 3 months.
2. What’s the best cut of meat for pulled pork?
The best cuts for pulled pork are pork shoulder (Boston butt) or pork butt because they have the right amount of fat to keep the meat tender and juicy during cooking.
3. Can I make these sliders healthier?
Absolutely! Use whole wheat slider buns, a low-sugar BBQ sauce, and top with a fresh vinegar-based coleslaw instead of creamy coleslaw. You can also use lean pork loin instead of pork shoulder for a lower-fat option.
4. What’s the best way to reheat pulled pork?
To keep pulled pork juicy, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of BBQ sauce or broth. You can also use the oven (covered at 300°F for about 15 minutes) or a slow cooker on low for an hour.
5. What sides go best with BBQ pulled pork sliders?
Some great side dishes include:
Sweet potato fries for a healthier twist
Coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
Mac & cheese for a creamy pairing
Cornbread for a classic BBQ side
Baked beans for a hearty addition
Final Thoughts
BBQ pulled pork sliders are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a casual dinner, they’re packed with flavor and easy to make. Try them out and let me know your favorite toppings!
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe
Ingredients
For the Pulled Pork:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
- ½ cup chicken broth or apple cider vinegar
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup coleslaw optional, for topping
- Pickles optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare & Cook the Pulled Pork
- Season the Meat – Rub olive oil over the pork, then coat with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Slow Cooker Method: Place the pork in a slow cooker with BBQ sauce and broth. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until fork-tender.
- Instant Pot Method: Add pork, BBQ sauce, and broth to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then natural release for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Shred & Sauce
- Use two forks to shred the pork directly in the pot. Stir well to coat in the BBQ sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Slice the slider buns in half.
- Pile on the pulled pork.
- Add coleslaw and pickles if using.
- Place the top buns on.
Step 4: Toast & Serve
- Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until warm and golden.
