These Easy Pulled Pork Sliders are a fun and tasty treat! Tender, juicy pulled pork is piled high on soft buns and topped with a bit of tangy sauce. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Making these sliders is a breeze. I love to set everything to cook and then relax. Serve them with some crunchy coleslaw on the side, and you’ve got a delicious meal everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pulled Pork: Cooked and shredded pork is essential for flavor. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken or beef can be great substitutes. They both add a nice twist to the sliders!
Slider Buns: Standard slider buns work best, but feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free buns. For a fun twist, try Hawaiian sweet rolls for a hint of sweetness.
Swiss Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully. If you want a different flavor, you can swap in provolone or even cheddar for a sharper taste.
Ham: While deli ham is convenient, you can use turkey or salami for a different flavor profile. Some folks also love adding crispy bacon for an extra crunch!
Mayonnaise & Mustard: If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well in place of mayo. For mustard, Dijon adds a nice kick, but yellow mustard is classic and will do just fine.
How Do You Get Perfectly Buttery, Flavorful Slider Tops?
The key to those deliciously buttery tops is all about the butter and seasonings. Combine melted butter with poppy seeds, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will add flavor and keep your sliders moist.
- Brush the butter mix generously on top of the buns to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Don’t skip the foil baking step! Covering the sliders helps steam them, making the buns soft.
- Once you remove the foil, the heat allows the tops to crisp up nicely; keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning!
Easy Pulled Pork Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb pulled pork (cooked and shredded)
- 12 slider buns
- 6 slices of Swiss cheese
- 6 slices of ham
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup mustard
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes, including baking time. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot for baking the sliders.
2. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Take the slider buns and carefully cut them in half horizontally. Don’t separate them completely; you want to keep them attached at the back. Place the bottom halves in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, mustard, and honey (if you’re using it). Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the buns for added flavor!
4. Layer the Fillings:
Now it’s time to add the pulled pork! Spread the shredded meat evenly over the mayonnaise mixture. Then, layer the ham on top of the pulled pork, followed by the slices of Swiss cheese.
5. Complete the Sliders:
Place the top halves of the buns on the filled bottom halves to complete your sliders. They look great already!
6. Prepare the Topping:
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush this delicious mixture generously over the top of the slider buns to give them a tasty finish.
7. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 15 minutes to warm everything through. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice along the sliders and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Easy Pulled Pork Sliders with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese adds a nice flavor, feel free to substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well for the best texture!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Sure thing! You can prepare the sliders up to the baking step and cover them tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them into the oven straight from the fridge, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option or use sour cream for a creamy texture. You can also mix in a bit of avocado for a unique flavor twist!
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave them, but they may not stay as crispy on top.
