If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and a total crowd-pleaser, these BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are your answer. Perfect for game day, a casual family dinner, or a weekend barbecue, these sliders bring a smoky, tangy flavor that’s hard to resist.
Pork shoulder is ideal for slow cooking because of its rich marbling. It becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. The BBQ sauce adds tanginess and sweetness, balancing the spices perfectly. Brown sugar contributes a hint of sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust. Smoked paprika offers a smoky depth, while garlic powder and onion powder provide a savory backbone. Salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors. For the coleslaw, mayonnaise creates a creamy base, apple cider vinegar adds sharpness, and sugar balances it all.
These sliders pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries or a fresh corn salad. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside baked beans or a grilled vegetable platter. A cold, crisp cider or a light beer complements the flavors beautifully.
First, grab a small bowl and mix together your spice rub: brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic blend is going to work magic on the pork. Rub the mixture generously all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Next, place the seasoned pork shoulder into your slow cooker. Pour one cup of BBQ sauce over the top. This will slowly seep into the meat as it cooks. Cover it up and set the slow cooker to low. Let it cook for 8–10 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. This process should be easy if the meat is cooked properly. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in the remaining BBQ sauce. This step ensures every piece is coated in that delicious sauce.
For the coleslaw, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar in a medium bowl. Stir until smooth, then mix in the coleslaw until it’s well coated with the dressing. This slaw will add a fresh crunch to your sliders.
To assemble, take your slider buns and place a generous scoop of pulled pork on the bottom half. Top with a spoonful of coleslaw and crown it with the other bun half. And there you have it—a platter full of irresistible sliders ready to enjoy!