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?
2. What’s the best cut of meat for pulled pork?
3. Can I make these sliders healthier?
4. What’s the best way to reheat pulled pork?
5. What sides go best with BBQ pulled pork sliders?
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.
