Irresistible BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Zesty Apple Coleslaw: Your Ultimate Party Recipe!
Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, these BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Coleslaw are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Imagine soft slider buns, generously brushed with a savory butter, baked to golden perfection, and then loaded with tender BBQ pulled pork. The experience is elevated by a vibrant, crunchy, and tart apple coleslaw, providing a delightful contrast that makes these sliders incredibly quick to assemble and the absolute perfect snack for any gathering. Whether you’re planning a party, tailgating event, or simply need a delicious and easy weeknight meal, these sliders are designed to impress with minimal effort and maximum taste!
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About These BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Coleslaw
As a devoted fan of pulled pork, I often find myself dreaming up new ways to enjoy its succulent, smoky flavors. One of my all-time favorite combinations is tender pulled pork nestled in a soft brioche bun, generously topped with crisp coleslaw and a kick of hot sauce. With tailgating season and holiday parties always on the horizon, I knew it was time to miniaturize this beloved classic into the ultimate party food: sliders!
But these aren’t just any sliders. To truly elevate them and infuse a delightful seasonal twist, I crafted an irresistible apple coleslaw. This isn’t your average coleslaw; its fruity, tart, and undeniably crunchy texture perfectly complements the rich, savory depth of the BBQ pulled pork. The fresh apple brightens every bite, cutting through the richness and adding an unexpected layer of flavor that makes these sliders truly special. It’s a combination that’s both comforting and exciting, a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
These BBQ pulled pork sliders are incredibly versatile. They shine as a show-stopping appetizer at any party or gathering, where their miniature size makes them easy to grab and enjoy. Yet, they’re also robust and satisfying enough to serve as a quick and effortless weeknight dinner option for the family. The magic of baking them ensures each slider is served warm and toasty, offering a comforting embrace that pairs beautifully with the chilled, refreshing coleslaw. This balance of warm and cool, soft and crunchy, rich and zesty makes them an all-year-round favorite.
So, whether you’re hosting a game day, a backyard barbecue, or just craving a delicious and easy meal, this recipe for BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Coleslaw is your new go-to. Let’s get cooking and dive into how you can create these incredibly flavorful and satisfying bites!
If you’re looking to expand your repertoire of hearty appetizers, these roast beef sliders are another mouthwatering option that are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients for Flavorful Sliders
Crafting these delectable sliders requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the layers of flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
Vinegar: For the apple coleslaw, apple cider vinegar is my top choice. Its distinct fruity and tangy notes harmonize perfectly with the apple and rich pork, adding a bright acidity that cuts through the richness. If apple cider vinegar isn’t available, red wine vinegar makes a suitable alternative, offering a slightly bolder tang.
Mayonnaise: Essential for the creamy coleslaw dressing, mayonnaise binds the ingredients together and adds a luscious texture. Feel free to use either full-fat or low-fat mayonnaise based on your preference; both will yield delicious results.
Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar in the coleslaw dressing is key to balancing the tanginess of the vinegar and lemon juice, creating a perfectly rounded flavor profile. It subtly enhances the natural sweetness of the apple.
Spices: Simplicity is key! You’ll only need common pantry staples for this recipe: garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These foundational spices enhance the overall savory notes in both the coleslaw and the butter topping, bringing everything together.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is highly recommended for the coleslaw. Its bright, zesty flavor adds a vibrant kick and helps to prevent the apples from browning. If fresh lemons aren’t handy, a good quality store-bought lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Apple: The star of our unique coleslaw! I personally favor a crisp, tart green apple, like Granny Smith, for its refreshing bite and tang that beautifully complements the pulled pork. However, feel free to use your favorite variety of apple, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, if you prefer a sweeter profile.
Green Onion: Just one green onion (scallion), thinly sliced, adds a mild, fresh oniony flavor to the coleslaw without overpowering the other ingredients.
Coleslaw Mix: For ultimate convenience, I often opt for a store-bought shredded coleslaw mix, which typically includes green cabbage and sometimes carrots. If you prefer, you can certainly shred your own green cabbage for an even fresher taste and texture.
Buns: The choice of bun is crucial! Hawaiian slider buns are highly recommended for their inherent sweetness, which pairs exceptionally well with the savory pulled pork and tangy BBQ sauce. Their soft texture and ability to pull apart easily also make them ideal for sliders. If Hawaiian rolls aren’t your preference, white or wheat slider rolls can also be used, though they will offer a different flavor dynamic.
Pork: The heart of the slider! You’ll need your favorite pulled pork. This recipe is fantastic for using up leftovers, or you can prepare a fresh batch. For a quick and easy option, I highly recommend my Instant Pot Pulled Pork recipe, which delivers tender, flavorful pork in significantly less time.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce! An original, smoky BBQ sauce works wonderfully, providing that classic taste. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy BBQ sauce can add an exciting kick to the dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for brushing on the buns. It creates a beautiful golden crust and a rich, savory flavor. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
Worcestershire Sauce: This secret ingredient adds an extra layer of savory depth and a delightful umami “zing” to the butter topping for the buns. While it significantly enhances the flavor, you can skip it if you don’t have it on hand without completely compromising the sliders’ deliciousness.
Essential Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
Gathering the right equipment before you start cooking can make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here are the must-have tools for creating these fantastic BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders:
- To finely slice the apple and green onion for your refreshing coleslaw, you’ll definitely need a sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board. Precision in slicing ensures every bite of coleslaw is perfect.
- For mixing the coleslaw dressing and combining the pulled pork with BBQ sauce, a couple of versatile mixing bowls (from a set) will be essential.
- A good quality whisk is indispensable for achieving a smooth and lump-free coleslaw dressing. A wooden spoon will also come in handy for gently folding the coleslaw ingredients together and for stirring the pork and BBQ sauce.
- Finally, for baking the sliders to a golden, toasty perfection, you’ll need a reliable half sheet baking sheet. Lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
How to Make BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Coleslaw
Get ready to create these incredibly flavorful sliders with simple, step-by-step instructions. The process is straightforward, ensuring delicious results every time!
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Coleslaw
Begin by making the star sidekick, the apple coleslaw. In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, creamy mayonnaise, a touch of granulated sugar, savory garlic powder, a pinch of salt, a dash of black pepper, and the bright, fresh lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. Next, gently fold in the thinly sliced apple, delicate green onion, and the shredded coleslaw mix. Continue to fold the mixture until every strand of cabbage and piece of apple is evenly coated with the luscious dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired, adding more salt or pepper if needed. For the best flavor and texture, set the coleslaw aside in the refrigerator to chill for at least 15-20 minutes while you prepare the sliders. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190˚C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Carefully slice the entire block of slider buns in half horizontally, keeping them connected. Gently remove the top half of the buns and place the bottom half onto your prepared baking sheet. In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine your cooked pulled pork with your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir well until all the pork is thoroughly coated and glistening with sauce. Spoon the BBQ pulled pork mixture evenly over the bottom half of the buns, spreading it from edge to edge. Carefully place the top halves of the buns back over the pork filling, ensuring they are neatly aligned.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of salt, and a dash of garlic powder until well combined. This savory butter mixture is key to a golden, flavorful crust. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops of the assembled slider buns with this butter mixture, ensuring even coverage. This step adds a beautiful shine and extra depth of flavor. Cover the baking sheet loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. The foil helps to steam the buns and warm the pork through without drying them out. After 10 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops of the buns are beautifully golden brown and slightly crisp. Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. This brief cooling period makes them easier to handle. Finally, carefully lift the top buns, add a generous spoonful of your chilled apple coleslaw over the pulled pork, replace the tops, and serve immediately. Enjoy the incredible blend of warm, savory, and tangy flavors!
Looking for more delightful slider recipes to try out? Explore these fantastic options: Pickle Brined Hot Chicken Sliders for a zesty kick, Jamaican Jerk Chicken Sliders for an exotic twist, Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pull Apart Sliders for ultimate comfort, and Crunch Cheeseburger Sliders for a fun, textured bite!
Tips for Success and Delicious Variations
To ensure your BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Coleslaw are absolutely perfect every time, and to spark your creativity, consider these helpful tips and exciting variations:
- Not a Fan of Pork? No Problem! If pork isn’t your preferred protein, these sliders are incredibly adaptable. You can easily substitute the pulled pork with tender shredded chicken. For a super quick fix, simply use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, shred it, and mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce. For a vegetarian option, pulled jackfruit or mushrooms make a fantastic substitute, mimicking the texture of pulled meat when prepared with BBQ sauce.
- Customize Your BBQ Sauce: The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Use your absolute favorite BBQ sauce – whether it’s sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy. If you love an extra saucy slider, don’t hesitate to add a bit more than the recommended amount. Conversely, if you prefer a less saucy profile, you can reduce the amount or even omit the BBQ sauce entirely for a simpler, unadorned pulled pork experience.
- Experiment with Different Rolls: While Hawaiian rolls are my top recommendation due to their delightful mild sweetness and soft texture that beautifully complements the pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and apple coleslaw, feel free to experiment. Brioche rolls offer a rich, buttery taste, while potato rolls provide a slightly denser, yet still soft, texture. You can also use classic white bread or wheat bread slider rolls for a different spin.
- Add a Cheesy Layer: For an extra layer of indulgence, consider adding a slice of your favorite cheese on top of the pulled pork before baking. Provolone, cheddar, or even Swiss cheese melt wonderfully and add another dimension of flavor. Simply place the cheese slices on the pork before topping with the other half of the bun, and it will melt as the sliders bake.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the sliders during the final few minutes of baking once the foil is removed. You want the buns to be golden brown and slightly crisp, not hard or burnt. Overbaking can dry out the buns and make them less enjoyable.
- Chill the Coleslaw: For the best refreshing contrast, ensure your apple coleslaw is well-chilled before serving. The cool, crisp slaw against the warm, savory pork is what makes this dish truly special.
Choosing Your Pulled Pork
The beauty of these sliders is their versatility when it comes to the pulled pork. You have several excellent options, allowing you to choose what best fits your schedule and culinary preferences:
- Homemade Instant Pot Pulled Pork: This is my personal favorite for its speed and incredible flavor. My Instant Pot Pulled Pork recipe delivers tender, succulent pork in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. It’s perfect when you want a homemade taste without hours of cooking.
- Slow Cooker Method: If you prefer a hands-off approach and have more time, a slow cooker is an excellent choice for pulled pork. It yields incredibly tender, fall-apart meat with minimal effort, allowing the flavors to deepen over several hours.
- Store-Bought Pulled Pork: For the ultimate convenience, don’t hesitate to purchase pre-cooked pulled pork from your local grocery store or butcher. Many stores offer high-quality options that just need to be warmed and mixed with your favorite BBQ sauce. This is a fantastic time-saver, especially for last-minute gatherings.
No matter which method you choose, ensure your pulled pork is seasoned well and has a good amount of moisture. The quality of your pork will significantly contribute to the overall deliciousness of your sliders!
Can I Prepare These Sliders in Advance?
Absolutely! These BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are wonderfully suitable for some advance preparation, which makes them perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights. Here’s how you can get ahead:
- Assemble Sliders Ahead: You can assemble the sliders, including placing the pulled pork on the buns and topping them with the upper bun halves, up to 4 hours in advance of baking. Once assembled, cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge, brush with the butter mixture, and follow the baking instructions. This pre-assembly allows you to quickly pop them in the oven when guests arrive or dinner time approaches.
- Coleslaw Preparation: The apple coleslaw is actually best when made ahead! You can prepare the coleslaw dressing and mix it with the cabbage, apple, and green onion up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will have more time to meld, making it even more delicious. Just give it a good stir before serving.
- Pulled Pork Prep: If you’re making your own pulled pork, you can cook it days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to use, simply reheat it and mix with the BBQ sauce before assembling the sliders.
This flexibility makes these sliders a stress-free option for any occasion!
Need some more delicious inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizers recipe page for a wide array of options!
What to Serve with Pulled Pork Sliders
These BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Coleslaw are incredibly satisfying on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal or party spread even further. Here are some fantastic ideas for what to serve alongside:
Enhancements for the Sliders:
- Always keep extra apple coleslaw and a variety of BBQ sauces (original, spicy, sweet) on hand, allowing guests to customize their sliders to their liking.
- Offer a selection of hot sauces for those who enjoy an extra kick!
Perfect Party Appetizer Pairings:
If you’re serving these sliders as a hearty appetizer, they can be quite filling. To round out your spread, consider lighter, complementary appetizers:
- Dips with Chips: A flavorful dip is always a hit. Our favorites include a rich Chorizo Pumpkin Chipotle Queso or a creamy Chipotle Chili Cheese Dip.
- Veggie Platter: A fresh crudités platter with a homemade ranch or hummus offers a healthy and refreshing contrast.
- Mini Skewers: Caprese skewers or grilled vegetable skewers are light and easy to eat.
Delicious Side Dishes for a Main Meal:
If these sliders are taking center stage as your main course, you’ll want some satisfying sides. Don’t forget to check out our dedicated list of pulled pork side dishes for even more inspiration, but here are a few classics:
- Classic Potato Salad or Macaroni Salad: Creamy, cool salads are excellent counterpoints to the warm sliders.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a quintessential BBQ side.
- Corn on the Cob or Corn Salad: Fresh corn brings a touch of sweetness and seasonality.
- Crispy Fries or Onion Rings: For a more indulgent, comforting meal.
Refreshing Beverages and Cocktails:
Pairing these flavorful sliders with the right drink can complete the experience:
- Cocktails: The tartness of the apple coleslaw and richness of the pork mean certain cocktails shine. Consider a Spiced Apple Cider Moscow Mule for a seasonal twist, a vibrant Watermelon Vodka Cocktail, refreshing Apple Cider Margaritas, or the classic Margarita Mule. For an easy big-batch option, our Chile Beer Sangria is a fan favorite, as is this tart and tangy Spiced Rum Punch with tons of citrus flavor.
- Beer Pairings: Craft beers like a smoky porter, a crisp lager, or a fruit-forward IPA can complement the BBQ flavors beautifully.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Iced tea, homemade lemonade, or sparkling cider are always refreshing choices.
Sweet Endings:
Finish your meal with a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert:
- For a quick, no-bake treat, these edible Cookie Dough Bites are always a favorite and easy to prepare.
- A fresh fruit salad or classic brownies are also excellent choices.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
While these sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, sometimes you might have a few delicious leftovers. Here’s how to properly store and reheat them to maintain their quality:
Store. To store any leftover BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders, it’s best to separate the coleslaw from the sliders if possible, as the moisture from the slaw can make the buns soggy. Place the sliders in an airtight container. Store the apple coleslaw in a separate airtight container. Both should be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Beyond that, the quality of the buns and coleslaw may start to decline.
Reheat. The best way to reheat your sliders to restore their warm, slightly crispy texture is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Place the sliders (without the coleslaw) on a baking sheet, ideally lined with parchment paper. Reheat for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the buns have lightly re-crisped. This method prevents them from becoming too soggy, which can happen if reheated in a microwave. Once reheated, add fresh (or stored) coleslaw just before serving. If you must use a microwave, reheat for short bursts (30 seconds) until warm, but be aware the buns may lose some of their crispness.
Finally, if you make these incredible BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Coleslaw, please be sure to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment below! I genuinely love to hear when you all try out my recipes, and I make it a point to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop any questions you might have, too!
Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you share your creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and I love looking through all those wonderful photos. Your feedback and shares mean the world to me!
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Coleslaw
15 minutes
15 minutes
30 minutes
Equipment
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Shun Chef’s Knife
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Utility Cutting Board
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French Wire Whisk
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Long Wooden Spoon
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Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
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Silicone Baking Mat Sheets
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Half Sheet Pan
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/8 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 green apple cored and thinly sliced
- 1 green onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 lb shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 12 pack Hawaiian slider buns
- 3 cups homemade pulled pork or use store bought
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
- Coleslaw recipe above
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375˚F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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In a large bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, sugar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice for the slaw until smooth. Add in thinly sliced apple, green onion, and shredded cabbage/coleslaw mix, tossing gently until the coleslaw is well-coated. Season with additional salt and pepper as desired. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill until ready to serve.
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Carefully slice the entire block of Hawaiian slider buns in half horizontally. Remove the tops and place the bottom half of the buns on the prepared baking sheet.
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In a medium bowl, combine the pulled pork and your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir well until the pork is thoroughly coated. Spread the BBQ pulled pork evenly over the bottom layer of the buns. Place the top halves of the buns back on.
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In a small bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and garlic powder. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops of the buns with this savory butter mixture.
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Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. This allows the pork to heat through and the buns to soften without over-browning. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.
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Remove from the oven and let cool slightly for a few minutes. Carefully lift the tops of the buns, add a generous amount of the chilled apple coleslaw over the pulled pork, replace the tops, and serve immediately. Enjoy your warm, flavorful sliders!
American, Tailgating
Appetizer, Main Dish, Party Food