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Cozy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe Easy Homemade Sliders with Fresh Coleslaw

BBQ pulled pork sliders - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for smoky, tender pulled pork sliders topped with fresh, tangy coleslaw. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder roast (boneless preferred for easy shredding)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for heat preference)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (use vegan mayo for dairy-free)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Freshly chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
  • 12 slider buns or small soft rolls (brioche style preferred)
  • Butter or olive oil for toasting buns

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the spice mix all over the pork.
  2. Place the pork in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Pour in apple cider vinegar and water or chicken broth around the pork, avoiding pouring directly on the spice rub.
  3. Cook the pork: Slow cooker on Low for 8 hours or High for 4-5 hours; Instant Pot on Meat/Stew setting for 60 minutes with natural pressure release.
  4. Remove pork and shred with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Return shredded pork to the cooker or a large bowl. Stir in barbecue sauce to coat all the meat. Keep warm until ready to assemble.
  6. Make the coleslaw by combining shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. Whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a smaller bowl. Toss dressing with veggies and refrigerate until serving.
  7. Toast slider buns in a skillet over medium heat with butter or olive oil until golden and slightly crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side.
  8. Assemble sliders by piling BBQ pulled pork on the bottom bun, topping with coleslaw, and crowning with the top bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

If pork seems dry after shredding, add extra barbecue sauce or cooking liquid. Toast buns just before serving to prevent sogginess. Use two forks to shred pork gently to avoid mushy texture. Substitute gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for gluten-free option. Vegan version can be made with shredded jackfruit and vegan mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ pulled pork, sliders, coleslaw, easy dinner, slow cooker, Instant Pot, comfort food, barbecue, party food