Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Pulled Pork (3 cups): Opt for freshly cooked or leftover pulled pork. A slow-cooked or smoked version works best for tender, flavorful meat.
- Barbecue Sauce (½ cup, plus more for serving): Choose a sauce with a balance of sweetness, tang, and smokiness to complement the pork.
- Slider Buns (12, e.g., King’s Hawaiian Rolls): Their slight sweetness elevates the flavor profile.
Toppings
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey perfection, adding richness to each bite.
- Coleslaw (1 cup): Adds crunch and freshness. Use store-bought or make your own sweet coleslaw for best results.
Butter Glaze
- Melted Butter (2 tablespoons): Provides a rich, golden finish.
- Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): Enhances the glaze’s sweetness.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory touch.
- Poppy Seeds (1 teaspoon, optional): Offers a nutty texture and visual appeal.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Heat the Pulled Pork
- Place the pulled pork in a saucepan and mix in ½ cup barbecue sauce.
- Warm it over medium heat, stirring frequently, until hot. Alternatively, microwave the mixture on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds.
Step 3: Assemble the Bottom Layer
- Cut the slider buns in half horizontally and arrange the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the warm pulled pork evenly over the buns.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the pork.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
Step 4: Prepare the Slider Tops
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons melted butter, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (if using).
- Arrange the top halves of the buns on the parchment-lined baking sheet and brush them with the butter mixture.
- Toast in the oven on a separate rack for 2 minutes, just enough to make them golden and fragrant.
Step 5: Final Assembly
- Remove the baking dish and tray from the oven.
- Take off the foil from the bottom halves. Add 1 cup of coleslaw on top of the cheesy pulled pork.
- Carefully place the toasted bun tops over the coleslaw.
- Slice into individual sliders and serve immediately with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Notes
- Pulled Pork Tips:
- Use Slow Cooker Texas Pulled Pork for rich, smoky flavors.
- If in a hurry, opt for pre-cooked pulled pork from the deli section.
- Cheese Substitutions:
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a smoky gouda.
- Glaze Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Use honey instead of brown sugar for a floral sweetness.
- Make It Your Own:
- Try different buns, such as brioche or ciabatta, for a unique twist.
- Add pickles or jalapeños for extra zing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes