Ultimate Game Day BBQ Pork Sliders – A Tailgate Favorite!

Score big at your next tailgate with these mouthwatering BBQ Pork Sliders! Tender, smoky pork shoulder, smothered in rich BBQ sauce, piled high on soft slider buns – these sliders are a guaranteed hit. Perfect for feeding a crowd and packed with flavor, they’re the ultimate game day treat. Get the full recipe and step-by-step guide to make these easy, budget-friendly sliders that will have everyone coming back for more. Don't miss out on this tailgate classic!

BBQ Pork Sliders

Ingredients:

• Pork:
  • 2 lbs. pork shoulder or pork butt (optional: cut into large chunks)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • All Ration rub (optional, for extra flavor)

• BBQ Sauce:

  • 1 bottle of BBQ sauce (or homemade if you prefer)

• Sliders:
  • 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls are a sweet and soft option)
  • Pickles (optional)
  • Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

Season the Pork: Start by generously seasoning the pork shoulder chunks with salt, pepper, and All Ration rub if you’re using it. Let the pork sit at room temperature while you prepare the grill. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat.

2. Grilling the Pork:

• Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
• Sear the Pork: Place the seasoned pork chunks directly on the grill. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until the pork has a nice, brown crust. This step adds depth of flavor and helps to lock in the juices.
• Indirect Cooking: After searing, move the pork to a cooler part of the grill (indirect heat). Cover the grill and cook the pork for another 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally. This slower cooking process will help tenderize the pork.

3.Adding the BBQ Sauce:

• Sauce It Up: Brush the pork chunks with BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Apply multiple layers, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly between applications. This gives the pork a sticky, flavorful coating.

4. Shredding the Pork:

• Rest and Shred: Once the pork is fully cooked and tender (internal temperature should reach about 195°F), remove it from the grill. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

 

5. Assembling the Sliders:

• Toast the Buns: While the pork is resting, lightly toast the slider buns on the grill for a minute or two until they’re golden brown.
• Build the Sliders: Pile the shredded pork onto the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with additional BBQ sauce if desired.
• Optional Toppings: Add a slice of pickle and a spoonful of coleslaw on top of the pork for a crunchy, tangy contrast.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serving Tip: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for easy serving. These are perfect to eat with one hand, making them ideal for tailgating.

Additional Tips:

• Make Ahead Option: You can cook the pork ahead of time in a slow cooker or oven, then reheat it on the grill with BBQ sauce at the tailgate. This saves time and ensures the pork is tender and flavorful.

• Serving for a Crowd: This recipe is easily scalable. Simply increase the amount of pork and buns based on the number of guests.

• Coleslaw Recipe: A simple coleslaw mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, mayo, vinegar, and a little sugar or your favorite no-sugar alternative adds a nice crunch and a bit of tanginess that pairs well with the sweet and savory pork.