Ah, Super Bowl Sunday! The day when football, friends, and food come together in epic fashion. For me, it’s not just about the game, but also the delicious spread of snacks and comfort food! One of my absolute favorites has to be BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders. There’s something about tender, flavorful pulled pork piled high on a soft bun that just screams party time. Plus, they’re super easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time cheering for your favorite team!
I remember the first time I made these sliders for a Super Bowl party. I had friends over, and the house was filled with laughter, excitement, and the aroma of slow-cooked pork wafting through the air. It was a hit! Everyone begged for the recipe, and I happily shared it with them. Now, it’s become a staple at all our big game gatherings. So, whether you’re hosting a party or just craving some comforting food, let’s dive into making these mouthwatering BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders together!
What’s in Super Bowl BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders?
Pork Shoulder (or Pork Butt): This is the star of the show! I prefer a bone-in pork shoulder for extra flavor, but boneless does the trick just fine. It’s rich in flavor and breaks down beautifully during the cooking process, making it perfect for shredding.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite BBQ sauce or try making your own! I love a smoky, tangy sauce that adds a kick to the pork. Brands like Sweet Baby Ray’s or Stubb’s are great for convenience.
Bread Rolls: Soft slider buns are essential for holding all that juicy goodness. I usually go with Hawaiian rolls for their slight sweetness, but any soft roll will do!
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm pork. You can make it from scratch or buy pre-made from the grocery store. I often whip up a quick mayo-based slaw, but vinegar-based slaw is fantastic too!
Pickles (optional): I know pickles can be polarizing, but a tangy slice on the slider just elevates the entire experience. You can either go for traditional dill pickles or sweet relish.
Is Super Bowl BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about health! While these sliders are undeniably delicious, they’re also packed with flavors that can be enjoyed in moderation.
Pork Shoulder: Rich in protein and essential vitamins, pork can be a healthy choice as long as you manage your portion sizes. I like to trim any excess fat to keep it leaner, especially if you’re watching your calories.
Coleslaw: Typically made with cabbage, this provides fiber and vitamin C. Just be cautious with the mayo; you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist if you’d like.
BBQ Sauce: Store-bought sauces can be high in sugar, so don’t forget to check the label. There’s no shame in mixing it with some vinegar to cut the sweetness if you’re looking for a less sugary version!
Just like any dish, moderation is key! Pair these sliders with a side of veggies or a fresh salad, and you’re good to go!
Ingredients List
– 3-4 lbs Pork Shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
– 2 cups BBQ Sauce (your favorite brand)
– 12 Soft Slider Buns (I love Hawaiian rolls!)
– 2 cups Coleslaw (homemade or store-bought)
– Pickles (optional, for that extra zing!)
This recipe serves about 8-10 people, perfect for your Super Bowl gathering!
How to Make Super Bowl BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders?
1. **Prep the Pork:** Start by rubbing the pork shoulder with your favorite seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic powder). Let it sit for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. **Slow Cook:** Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Pour in 1 cup of BBQ sauce (reserve the rest for later). Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. **Shred the Pork:** Once done, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes, then use two forks to shred it. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining BBQ sauce.
4. **Toast the Buns (optional):** If you want a little extra magic, lightly toast the slider buns on a skillet or in the oven until golden brown.
5. **Assemble the Sliders:** Take a toasted bun, pile on the BBQ pulled pork, add a scoop of coleslaw, and top it off with pickles if you love them!
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Arrange the sliders on a platter, and watch as your guests devour them! Trust me, they’ll be the star of the show.
Slider Secrets: Tips & Variations
– **Make it Ahead:** You can make the pulled pork a day ahead. Just reheat gently in the slow cooker or on the stove with a bit of BBQ sauce to maintain moisture.
– **Flavor Variations:** If you want to switch it up, try different BBQ styles – Carolina mustard, Kansas City sweet, or even a spicy chipotle BBQ sauce.
– **Serve with Sides:** Pair these sliders with some crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad to balance the meal.
I hope you give these BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders a try. They’re a real crowd-pleaser, and I can guarantee they’ll be devoured faster than you can say “touchdown!” So, gather your friends, whip up a batch, and let me know how it goes. I’m always excited to hear about your culinary adventures! Enjoy the game day!