BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are one of my favorite ways to turn leftover pulled pork into a melt-in-your-mouth party snack or easy weeknight dinner. Each one is loaded with savory pork smothered in barbecue sauce, melty cheddar, and crispy bacon, all wrapped up in sweet Hawaiian rolls with a buttery brown sugar glaze on top. These sliders disappear from the table fast.

Ingredients

• Hawaiian slider rolls: bring a signature sweetness and softness pick them up fresh if you can
• Butter: adds richness and helps toast the rolls for a golden crust use high-quality unsalted butter for best flavor
• Pulled pork: packs this dish with smoky hearty protein leftover slow cooked or smoked pork works beautifully
• Barbecue sauce: infuses every bite with tangy sweet and slightly smoky flavor look for a sauce with real brown sugar or molasses
• White cheddar cheese: offers creaminess and sharp flavor choose slices that melt well and have a nice tang
• Bacon: gives irresistible crunch and deep smoky flavor use thick cut and cook until crispy
• For the glaze: more butter brown sugar Italian seasoning and fresh garlic combine for a glossy finish that brings everything together use fresh minced garlic and a light touch on Italian herbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Rolls:

Gently separate the top and bottom of the Hawaiian rolls using a long serrated knife or bread knife keeping all rolls connected as a single sheet This step makes assembly easy

Toast the Bread:

Spread half the butter evenly over the tops and bottoms of the rolls then place the open rolls cut side up on a baking sheet Toast in the oven at 350 degrees F for just a few minutes until lightly browned This prevents sogginess

Warm and Flavor the Pork:

Place the pulled pork and barbecue sauce in a skillet over medium heat Stir and warm gently until heated through which brings out all the smoky and tangy notes

Assemble the Sliders:

Spoon the warm sauced pork evenly across the bottom half of the rolls Layer cheese slices over the pork so every bite gets gooey Then add a generous layer of crispy bacon pieces

Finish the Layers:

Set the matching tops of the rolls over the filled bottoms pressing gently to secure them into sandwiches

Make the Glaze:

Melt the remaining butter in a small bowl and blend in brown sugar minced garlic and Italian seasoning Stir until smooth

Add the Glaze and Bake:

Drizzle the sweet savory glaze over the top of the rolls and spread with a pastry brush Bake for five to ten minutes until the cheese melts and the glazed tops become shiny and browned

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I always look forward to using really good bacon in these sliders because it is the difference between just tasty and absolutely irresistible I remember once making these for a neighborhood tailgate and not a crumb was left within minutes

Storage Tips

Keep any leftover sliders wrapped in foil and in the fridge for up to three days Reheat them in a low oven for best results This way the bread stays soft and the cheese melts again

Ingredient Substitutions

Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or smoked gouda for richness Turkey bacon also works if you want to lighten things up If you do not have Hawaiian rolls soft dinner rolls with a touch of honey make a great substitute

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sliders with coleslaw pickles or a fresh salad For parties I love placing the tray on the table with little tongs and watch everyone help themselves A classic summer lemonade or iced tea pairs perfectly

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Cultural and Historical Notes

Pulled pork has deep roots in American barbecue traditions especially in the South Using leftovers creatively for the next meal is something every barbecue-loving household knows These sliders are a modern spin on a classic making them easy to eat and a hit for family-style meals

Recipe FAQs

→ Can different cheeses be used?

Absolutely. White cheddar provides a sharp bite, but Monterey Jack, provolone, or even Swiss melt beautifully and complement the pork and bacon flavors.

→ How do you prevent soggy buns?

Toasting the slider rolls with butter in the oven before adding the fillings helps create a barrier and keeps the buns from getting soggy.

→ Is it possible to prepare ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the sliders in advance, cover, then glaze and bake just before serving to keep them fresh and melty.

→ Can store-bought pulled pork be used?

Pre-cooked pulled pork saves time and works well. Just mix it with your favorite barbecue sauce and warm before layering.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

Coleslaw, pickles, or a simple green salad offer balance to the rich, savory flavors in these sliders.

→ How long do leftovers keep?

Store any remaining sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven for best results.