BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

BBQ pulled pork sliders bring a playful twist to any casual meal or gathering. These small sandwiches layered with tender pulled pork, smoky bacon, and melted cheese on sweet Hawaiian rolls come together with a buttery brown sugar glaze that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for parties or easy weeknight dinners, they offer big flavor packed into a convenient handheld treat.

My family discovered these sliders during a busy football season and they quickly became our go-to for game days and potlucks. I love how the glaze caramelizes just right to give an added layer of richness to the soft rolls.

Ingredients

• Hawaiian slider rolls: their soft sweetness balances the savory pork and bacon choose fresh rolls for best texture
• Butter: key to browning the buns and for the rich glaze
• Pulled pork: tender and juicy a great base for absorbing the BBQ sauce
• Barbecue sauce: adds tangy and smoky notes pick your favorite brand or homemade sauce
• White cheddar cheese: melts beautifully with a sharp flavor to complement the pork
• Bacon: adds crunch and smoky saltiness chop into generous pieces for texture
• Brown sugar: sweetens the glaze creating that perfect golden crust
• Italian seasoning: herbal notes that brighten the glaze use fresh if possible for more aroma
• Minced garlic: adds savory depth to the glaze use fresh garlic for the best flavor

Instructions

Slicing and prepping the rolls:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the slider rolls on a baking sheet and carefully slice them horizontally in half using a long bread knife. Keep the sliders attached as a whole sheet for easier assembly and baking.

Butter the rolls and toast slightly:

Spread about one tablespoon of softened butter evenly on both the cut sides of the slider rolls. Pop the tray in the oven and bake for a few minutes until the bread is just starting to turn golden. This step adds flavor and prevents sogginess later.

Heat the pulled pork:

Warming the pulled pork with barbecue sauce helps meld the flavors and makes it easier to spread. Combine about one pound of pulled pork with two thirds cup of your favorite BBQ sauce in a saucepan over low heat until warm throughout.

Layer the sliders:

Spread the warmed barbecue pork evenly over the bottom halves of the slider rolls. Arrange slices of white cheddar cheese on top of the pork making sure to cover each slider evenly. Sprinkle chopped bacon pieces generously over the cheese for salty smoky crunch.

Top and glaze the sliders:

Place the top halves of the rolls back on the sliders to complete the assembly. Melt about three tablespoons of butter and stir in two tablespoons of brown sugar one teaspoon of Italian seasoning and one teaspoon of minced garlic to make the glaze. Spoon or brush this glaze evenly over the tops of the slider buns.

Bake to finish:

Bake the assembled sliders in the oven for five to ten minutes or until the cheese has melted and the tops of the buns start to brown and caramelize slightly. Remove from oven and serve warm.

I love how the Hawaiian rolls add a soft, sweet counterpoint to the rich pork and bacon. A family favorite memory is always passing the tray around at holiday gatherings with everyone grabbing sliders while sharing stories and laughter.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat cover loosely with foil and warm in a 350 degree oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the rolls from getting soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Hawaiian rolls soft brioche buns or dinner rolls work well too. For cheese sharp yellow cheddar or Monterey Jack provide nice variation. If bacon is off the table consider crispy pancetta or omit for a lighter version. Use any BBQ sauce you like to tailor flavor from sweet to spicy.

Serving Suggestions

Pulled pork sliders shine with creamy coleslaw on the side or crispy French fries for a complete meal. They also pair well with baked beans or a fresh pasta salad to balance the richness. For a fun twist add sliced pickles or a drizzle of ranch dressing on the sliders.

These BBQ pulled pork sliders are a crowd pleasing, easy option for game days or weeknight dinners. Serve warm and enjoy.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ What type of cheese works best?

Sharp white cheddar slices are preferred for a rich, melty texture, though mozzarella or Havarti also work well.

→ Can these sliders be prepared ahead?

Yes, assemble the sliders and pour the glaze on the night before, then bake just before serving for best results.

→ How do I keep rolls from getting soggy?

Lightly browning the buttered rolls in the oven before assembling helps prevent sogginess and adds extra flavor.

→ Is there a way to customize flavors?

Try adding toppings like ranch, coleslaw, or French fried onions to half of the sliders for varied taste options.

→ Can these sliders be cooked in an air fryer?

Yes, these sliders can be warmed and melted in an air fryer or toaster oven for a quick alternative to baking.