What To Know
- Cover the pan and braise in the oven for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
- Transfer the shredded pork to a large bowl and stir in the remaining barbecue sauce from the pan.
- Place a slider bun on the skillet and top it with a generous portion of pulled pork.
Hosting a tailgate or party can be a lot of work, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With our mouthwatering make-ahead pulled pork sliders, you can have a delicious and satisfying dish ready to serve without any last-minute scrambling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4-5 pound pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Slider buns
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
1. Remove the pork shoulder from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about an hour.
2. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Seasoning the Pork
1. In a large bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and brown sugar.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring that it is evenly coated.
Braising the Pork
1. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or roasting pan.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork shoulder.
5. Cover the pan and braise in the oven for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Shredding and Refrigerating
1. Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
3. Transfer the shredded pork to a large bowl and stir in the remaining barbecue sauce from the pan.
4. Let the pulled pork cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Assembling the Sliders
1. When you’re ready to serve, remove the pulled pork from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Place a slider bun on the skillet and top it with a generous portion of pulled pork.
4. Add your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, pickles, or onions.
5. Close the slider with another bun and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the buns are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Tips for the Best Pulled Pork Sliders
- Choose the right cut of pork: Bone-in pork shoulder is recommended for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t overcook the pork: Braising it low and slow will prevent it from becoming dry or tough.
- Use a flavorful barbecue sauce: Experiment with different sauces to find one that complements the pork well.
- Make the sliders ahead of time: This will save you time on the day of your event.
- Serve with your favorite toppings: Let your guests customize their sliders with their preferred toppings.
Variations and Adaptations
- Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sliders: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sliders: Cook the pork shoulder in an Instant Pot on high pressure for 1 hour.
- Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders: Add pineapple chunks and teriyaki sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture.
- Spicy Pulled Pork Sliders: Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
- Vegetarian Pulled Pork Sliders: Use jackfruit or mushrooms as a meat substitute.
The Final Touch: A Satisfying Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a tailgate, backyard barbecue, or family gathering, these make-ahead pulled pork sliders will be a hit. They’re easy to make, flavorful, and can be tailored to your tastes. So, next time you’re planning an event, don’t stress about the food – prepare these delicious sliders in advance and enjoy the party!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze the pulled pork for longer storage?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pulled pork for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers.
Q: How do I reheat the pulled pork?
A: You can reheat the pulled pork in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop. Microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. In the oven, wrap the pulled pork in foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes. On the stovetop, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the pulled pork until warmed through.
Q: Can I use boneless pork shoulder for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use boneless pork shoulder. However, the bone-in pork shoulder will yield more flavorful and tender meat.
