Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sliders are a classic and delicious snack that can be served on any occasion. They are the perfect combination of tender and juicy pulled pork, all nestled between two soft buns.
These sliders are not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser, making them a popular choice for parties and gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply looking for a satisfying snack, pulled pork sliders are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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Why I Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why you’ll love this recipe, mostly because it’s such an easy dinner to make!
- The pork is cooked low and slow, resulting in tender and juicy meat that falls apart effortlessly.
- Slow cooker pulled pork sliders are an easy and fuss-free dish to make, requiring minimal effort and supervision.
- They are incredibly versatile, as you can customize the toppings and sauces to your liking.
- Perfect for crowds, as they are a great option for parties, potlucks, and game day gatherings.
- They are budget-friendly, as pork is an affordable and accessible cut of meat.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork can easily be made in many forms but cooked in the slow cooker is always my favorite.
Ingredients
- bone-in pork shoulder roast
- brown sugar
- hot sauce
- salt
- cayenne pepper
- ground black pepper
- apple cider vinegar
- hawaiian rolls, sliced in half
- favorite barbecue sauce, optional
Variations / Options / Add-Ins
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders: Top the pulled pork with a generous drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce and a few pickles before closing the bun. This classic flavor combo is always a hit and sure to please any barbecue lover.
- Asian-Inspired Pulled Pork Sliders: Add some Asian-inspired flavors by topping the pulled pork with some shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, cilantro, and soy sauce. You can also add some Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.
- Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders: Add some tropical vibes by topping the pulled pork with some sliced pineapple rings, coleslaw, and sweet teriyaki sauce. This option is perfect for a summer party or luau-themed event.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sliders
Step 1: Add the pork to the slow cooker. Top with brown sugar, hot sauce, seasonings, and apple cider vinegar.
Step 2: Cook on low for 12 hours or high for 6 hours. Shred the beef with two forks and discard the bones and excess fat.
Step 3: Slice the rolls in half lengthwise, and then place the bottom half in a baking pan.
Step 4: Top the bottom of the rolls with pulled pork, and bbq sauce if desired. Add the top buns and serve.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of coleslaw: Coleslaw is a classic and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with pulled pork sliders. The crunchy and creamy texture of the coleslaw complements the tender and juicy pulled pork.
- Pair with sweet potato fries: Sweet potato fries are a great substitute for regular fries and make for a tasty side dish. The sweetness of the fries complements the savory flavors of the pulled pork.
- Add a side of pickles: Pickles are a simple yet flavorful addition to pulled pork sliders. They add a tangy and crunchy contrast to the soft and tender meat.
- Serve with potato salad: Potato salad is another classic side dish that goes well with pulled pork sliders. The creamy and tangy flavors of the potato salad balance out the smoky and savory flavors of the pulled pork.
- Offer a variety of sauces: Offer a selection of different sauces, such as BBQ sauce, hot sauce, or honey mustard, to let your guests customize their sliders according to their preferences. This will also add some variety and interest to the meal.
Pro Tips
- Choose the right cut of meat: When making pulled pork, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. Pork shoulder or pork butt are great options as they have a good amount of fat and connective tissue which will break down during the cooking process, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning: Pulled pork needs flavor, so be sure to season the meat well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other spices you prefer. You can also add some liquid smoke to give it a smoky flavor.
- Use a slow cooker liner: Slow cooker liners are a game-changer when it comes to cleaning up after your meal. They make cleanup a breeze and prevent food from sticking to the sides of the slow cooker.
- Let the pork rest before shredding: Once the pork is cooked, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before shredding it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist pulled pork.
Storage
- Allow the pulled pork to cool down to room temperature before storing it.
- Place the pulled pork in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it.
- Store the pulled pork in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- When you’re ready to enjoy the pulled pork sliders, reheat the pulled pork in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
- Assemble the sliders by placing the reheated pulled pork in the toasted buns and add your desired toppings.
FAQs
Do you have questions about this recipe? Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions for this recipe.
Pork shoulder or pork butt are the best cuts of meat to use for pulled pork. However, you can also use beef chuck roast or chicken thighs if you prefer.
To prevent the buns from getting soggy, toast them before assembling the sliders. You can also serve the toppings and sauce on the side so that your guests can customize their sliders according to their preference.
Yes, you can make pulled pork sliders in advance by storing the pulled pork and toppings separately. Toast the buns just before serving, then assemble the sliders with the reheated pulled pork and toppings.
Want to make this delicious recipe? Print the recipe card below, or pin it so that you can come back to it later.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sliders
Equipment
- knife and cutting board
- Slow Cooker
- 9×13 baking dish
Ingredients
- 5 pound bone-in pork shoulder roast
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 ½ tablespoons hot sauce
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 24 hawaiian rolls,
- 2 cups barbecue sauce optional
Instructions
- Cut the pork into large pieces for faster cooking.
- Prepare the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the pork into the slow cooker. Over the top, add the brown sugar, hot sauce, seasonings, and apple cider vinegar.
- Cover and cook on low for 12 hours or high for 6 hours.
- Shred the meat with two forks, discarding the excess fat and bone.
- Place the bottom of the rolls into a 9×13 dish. Add a thick layer of the pulled pork. If desired, add a layer of barbecue sauce. Place the top of the buns over the sauce.
- Cut apart and serve immediately or cover and refrigerate.
- To reheat: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Tent the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the meat is heated through. Cut apart and serve.