These Sweet and Smoky Pulled Pork Sliders are the ultimate game-day food (Football Seasons). The tender, flavorful pulled pork, simmered in a rich and tangy barbecue sauce, is the perfect filling for soft, toasted slider buns. Topped with a hint of pickled red onions and fresh cilantro, they create the perfect balance of savory and tangy.
These sliders are not only a hit at tailgates and game day parties but also an easy-to-make comfort food that can be enjoyed any time. The pulled pork can be made in advance, making it a convenient option for feeding a crowd. With a quick assemble time and a burst of flavors, these sliders are bound to be the star of your next gathering.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 pounds pork shoulder
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon chili powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
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1/2 cup water
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1/2 cup barbecue sauce
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12 slider buns
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1/4 cup pickled red onions
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1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
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Rub the pork shoulder with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
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In a Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add apple cider vinegar, water, and barbecue sauce to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cover and place in the oven. Cook for 3-4 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
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Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks.
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Return the shredded pork to the sauce in the pot and mix well.
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Toast the slider buns in the oven for 5 minutes or until slightly crispy.
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Assemble the sliders by placing pulled pork on the buns, then topping with pickled red onions and fresh cilantro.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Pulled Pork Sliders: The Ultimate Game Day Delight
When it comes to game day gatherings, the food you serve can elevate the entire experience. One dish that consistently stands out as a crowd-pleaser is the Pulled Pork Slider. These bite-sized sandwiches offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them an ideal choice for any football season celebration.
The Allure of Pulled Pork Sliders
Pulled pork sliders are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. The slow-cooked pork shoulder, seasoned to perfection, becomes tender and juicy, easily shredding into succulent pieces. When combined with a rich barbecue sauce and served on soft, pillowy buns, each bite delivers a burst of flavor that resonates with fans and foodies alike.
The versatility of pulled pork sliders is another reason for their popularity. They can be customized with various toppings such as coleslaw, pickles, or jalapeños, allowing guests to tailor each slider to their taste preferences. This adaptability ensures that everyone at your gathering finds a combination they love.
Preparing Pulled Pork for Sliders
The key to a great pulled pork slider lies in the preparation of the pork itself. Using a pork shoulder or butt is recommended due to its marbling and fat content, which contribute to the meat’s tenderness and flavor. Cooking methods vary, but slow cooking, whether in a smoker, slow cooker, or oven, allows the flavors to develop fully.
For those using a smoker, the process involves seasoning the pork with a dry rub and cooking it low and slow over wood chips, imparting a smoky flavor that enhances the meat’s taste. Alternatively, a slow cooker offers a convenient method, where the pork is cooked with seasonings and liquids until it reaches a pull-apart consistency.
Once cooked, the pork is shredded and mixed with barbecue sauce, ready to be piled onto buns. This mixture can be kept warm in a slow cooker during the event, ensuring that guests always have access to hot, flavorful sliders.
Building the Perfect Slider
Assembling the sliders is where creativity can shine. Start with a base of soft slider buns, which can be lightly toasted for added texture. Add a generous portion of the pulled pork mixture, then layer with desired toppings.
Coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the rich pork, while pickles introduce a zesty element. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, jalapeños or spicy barbecue sauce can be included. The combination of these elements creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy.
Serving Suggestions
Pulled pork sliders are best served warm, making them perfect for buffet-style setups where guests can assemble their own sliders. To keep the sliders warm throughout the event, consider using chafing dishes or slow cookers set to the warm setting.
Pairing these sliders with classic game day sides like potato salad, baked beans, or chips can round out the meal. Additionally, offering a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, blue cheese, or extra barbecue sauce, can enhance the flavor experience.
Conclusion:
Pulled pork sliders are more than just a dish; they’re a celebration of flavors that bring people together. Their ease of preparation, versatility, and crowd-pleasing nature make them an essential addition to any game day menu. Whether you’re hosting a large party or a small gathering, these sliders are sure to be a hit, leaving your guests satisfied and eager for the next bite.
For more creative takes on pulled pork sliders, consider exploring variations like Cheesy Pulled Pork Sliders, which incorporate a rich cheese sauce for added indulgence. Or try Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders, which include pineapple and a sweet glaze for a tropical twist. Each variation offers a unique flavor profile, ensuring that your game day spread is both diverse and delicious.
Incorporating these sliders into your game day menu will not only satisfy your guests’ appetites but also create lasting memories around the table. So, fire up the grill or slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to serve up some of the best pulled pork sliders your guests have ever tasted.
Remember, the key to a successful game day gathering is not just the game itself but the food that accompanies it. With pulled pork sliders, you have a dish that embodies the spirit of the game exciting, satisfying, and best enjoyed with friends and family.
So, as the football season kicks off, make sure your menu includes these delectable sliders. They’re sure to be the MVP of your game day spread.
For more tips on hosting the perfect game day party, including beverage pairings and dessert ideas, stay tuned to our upcoming posts. We’ll help you create a game day experience that’s as memorable as the game itself.