BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are one of those irresistible little bites that bring a party to your plate whether you are feeding a crowd or just craving a satisfying meal after a busy day. Loaded with tender pulled pork, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and a buttery brown sugar glaze on soft Hawaiian rolls, these sliders offer a perfect balance of savory and sweet that keeps everyone coming back for more. They are incredibly versatile and quick to assemble, making them a go-to dish for game days, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.

I started making these sliders on a whim after a big batch of pulled pork and quickly realized they make any gathering better. My family now asks for them every time we have leftover pork ready to go.

Ingredients

• 12 Hawaiian slider rolls: providing a soft, slightly sweet base that complements the savory fillings
• 2 tablespoons butter: for spreading and browning the rolls adding richness and a crispy texture
• 1 pound pulled pork: best if lean and tender, warmed for easy layering and to soak up the sauce
• 2/3 cup barbecue sauce: to bind the pork and add tangy, smoky notes choose your favorite brand or homemade for personalized flavor
• 6 slices white cheddar cheese: which melts beautifully and adds a sharp contrast to the sweet glaze
• 1/2 pound bacon: chopped into 2 to 3 inch pieces for a crunchy, salty layer that balances the sandwich
• Glaze: made of 3 tablespoons melted butter, 2 tablespoons brown sugar for sweetness and caramelization, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for a herby note, and 1 teaspoon minced garlic to provide depth and an inviting aroma

Instructions

Slicing the Rolls:

Use a long bread knife to slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Take your time and rotate the pan slowly to ensure all rolls are sliced evenly without tearing.

Buttering and Browning the Rolls:

Spread about one tablespoon of softened butter evenly on the top and bottom halves of the rolls. Place the baking sheet in a preheated 350°F oven for a few minutes until the bread starts to turn lightly golden. This browning step adds flavor and helps prevent sogginess.

Warming Pulled Pork with Sauce:

In a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop, gently warm the pulled pork mixed thoroughly with the barbecue sauce until heated through. This ensures every bite is saucy and tender.

Assembling the Sliders:

Evenly spread the warmed pork mixture across the bottom half of the rolls. Then lay slices of white cheddar cheese on top to cover the pork. Sprinkle the chopped bacon pieces over the cheese for crunch and flavor. Finally, place the top halves of the rolls over the bacon layer.

Preparing and Applying the Glaze:

Melt the butter in a small bowl and mix in the brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic until smooth. Generously spoon or brush this glaze evenly over the top of the sliders, making sure to coat all the rolls for that signature shine and sweetness.

Baking:

Return the glazed sliders to the oven and bake for 5 to 10 minutes. Watch closely for the cheese to melt and the tops of the rolls to become nicely browned without burning. Remove and let sit a few minutes before serving.

I love the combination of the buttery glaze and the sharp cheddar cheese. It reminds me of a family cookout where these sliders disappeared almost as fast as they came out of the oven.

Storage Tips

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a low oven to keep the bread from drying out. You can also freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap white cheddar for sharp yellow cheddar or mozzarella for a milder melt. Use turkey bacon or precooked bacon bits to reduce prep time and cleanup. If you prefer heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the pulled pork before assembling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sliders with creamy coleslaw or French fried onions piled high for extra crunch and flavor. Pair with classic sides like baked beans, mac and cheese, or a fresh pasta salad for a complete meal. A chilled beer or sparkling lemonade balances the rich, sweet flavors perfectly.

These sliders are quick to pull together and always a crowd-pleaser. Make extra because they tend to disappear fast.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of bread works best for these sliders?

Soft Hawaiian slider rolls are ideal for their slightly sweet flavor and ability to hold the juicy fillings without getting soggy.

→ Can I prepare the sliders ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the sliders the night before and cover tightly. For best results, apply the glaze just before baking.

→ How can I easily cut the sliders?

Use a long serrated bread knife to slice the slider bun trays in half, keeping the sliders attached for easier assembly.

→ What type of cheese is recommended?

Sharp white cheddar cheese is preferred for its distinct flavor and good melting properties, though other cheeses like Havarti or mozzarella work too.

→ Can I add toppings to customize the sliders?

Absolutely. Popular additions include ranch dressing, French fried onions, or coleslaw to enhance flavor and texture.

→ Is there an alternative cooking method besides baking?

These sliders can be heated in an air fryer or toaster oven for a faster, crispy finish.