BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are a fantastic way to turn leftover pulled pork into a party-worthy dish that everyone will love. These sliders combine tender pulled pork with melted sharp white cheddar cheese and crispy bacon on soft Hawaiian rolls, all glazed with a buttery brown sugar and herb mixture that creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet. They come together quickly and make an ideal option for gatherings, game days, or a comforting weeknight meal.

I remember making these sliders for a family game night and everyone kept going back for seconds. They're so easy to customize that even picky eaters can enjoy their own style.

Ingredients

• Hawaiian slider rolls: Hawaiian slider rolls provide that soft and slightly sweet base that holds all the fillings beautifully. Choose fresh rolls with a golden crust for the best texture
• Butter: Butter adds richness and helps brown the rolls creating a lovely toasted flavor. Use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning
• Pulled pork: Pulled pork brings the tender smoky meat that's the star of these sliders. Freshly cooked or leftover pork both work great
• Barbecue sauce: Barbecue sauce gives the pork a tangy and sweet kick. Pick your favorite store-bought variety or make your own for a personal touch
• White cheddar cheese: White cheddar cheese melts wonderfully and adds a sharp creamy element. Slices work best for even melting
• Bacon: Bacon chopped into bite-size pieces adds a smoky crunch and salty contrast. Cooking it just until crisp will keep it from becoming dry
• Brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic for the glaze: Brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic for the glaze infuse a sweet herbal flavor that ties everything together

Instructions

Slicing the Rolls:

Carefully cut the Hawaiian slider rolls in half horizontally using a long bread knife or serrated knife. This creates the sandwich openings while keeping the rolls connected for easier assembly and baking

Buttering and Browning the Rolls:

Spread about a tablespoon of softened butter evenly on both the top and bottom halves of the rolls. Place the baking sheet with the rolls in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes until the bread starts to brown lightly. This adds flavor and prevents sogginess from the fillings

Preparing the Pulled Pork:

Warm the pulled pork along with the barbecue sauce. This makes the pork flavorful and easy to spread while keeping it moist

Layering the Sliders:

Evenly distribute the warm barbecue pulled pork over the bottom halves of the rolls. Place slices of white cheddar cheese on top of the pork and scatter the chopped bacon pieces evenly over the cheese layer. Then gently place the top halves of the rolls back on

Making the Glaze:

Melt the butter in a small bowl and stir in the brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic until well combined. This glaze will create a sticky, sweet, and flavorful coating on the slider tops

Applying the Glaze and Baking:

Spoon or brush the glaze evenly over the tops of the assembled sliders. Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the tops of the rolls are golden and slightly caramelized

The Hawaiian rolls are honestly my favorite part of these sliders. Their sweetness complements the savory pork and bacon so well. I remember making a batch for a tailgate and everyone was begging me for the recipe by the end of the day.

Storage Tips

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover them with foil and warm in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through to keep the buns soft and the cheese melty.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Hawaiian rolls use slider buns or small dinner rolls that are soft and slightly sweet. Cheddar can be swapped with mozzarella or Havarti though cheddar offers the best balance of flavor and meltability. For a different smoky crunch, toasted pecans or fried onions may replace bacon. Use your favorite barbecue sauce flavor such as spicy, sweet, or smoky versions to tailor to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, loaded potato casserole, or an easy pasta salad for a full meal. French fried onions or extra coleslaw layered on top bring that extra crunch and zing. Try serving with ranch dressing on the side or spread on the bottom bun for a creamy touch.

Serve these warm for best flavor and watch them disappear at any gathering.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of cheese works best for these sliders?

Sharp white cheddar is preferred for its melt and flavor, though Havarti or mozzarella can be used for a milder taste.

→ Can I prepare the sliders in advance?

Yes, you can assemble sliders the night before and refrigerate them. For best results, glaze just before baking.

→ How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Lightly browning the buttered rolls before assembling helps maintain texture and adds a toasty flavor.

→ What is the glaze made of?

The glaze combines melted butter, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic for a sweet and savory finish.

→ Can these sliders be cooked in an air fryer?

Yes, they can be baked in an air fryer or toaster oven; just monitor carefully to avoid burning.