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Kid-Approved Smoky Pulled Pork Sliders: Easy 30-Minute Recipe

pulled pork sliders - featured image

These kid-approved smoky pulled pork sliders with apple slaw are proof that the best recipes often come from the simplest ideas. The smoky, saucy pork paired with the crisp, tangy slaw on a soft toasted bun is a combination that works for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, and everything in between.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked pulled pork (about 12 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage (about 1/4 of a medium head)
  • 1 large Granny Smith apple (julienned or grated)
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 slider buns (soft brioche or potato rolls)
  • Butter for toasting the buns (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the apple slaw first. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and julienned apple. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture. Toss well to coat. Set aside. The slaw needs at least 10 minutes to soften and meld flavors.
  2. Prepare the smoky pulled pork. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cooked pulled pork, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, liquid smoke (if using), apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the pork is evenly coated. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  3. Toast the slider buns. While the pork heats, split the slider buns in half. Butter the cut sides lightly. Place them cut-side down in a separate skillet over medium heat, or pop them in a toaster oven. Toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Assemble the sliders. Place the bottom half of each toasted bun on a serving platter. Spoon a generous portion of the smoky pulled pork onto each bottom bun. Top with a heap of apple slaw. Place the top bun on each slider. Press down gently to help everything stay together.
  5. Serve immediately. These sliders are best enjoyed warm, when the bun is still toasty and the slaw is crisp. Serve with extra sauce on the side if you like.

Notes

Don’t skip the liquid smoke for authentic smoky flavor. Shred the cabbage thin for best texture. Toasting the buns prevents sogginess. Let the slaw rest for at least 10 minutes for best flavor. Adjust sweetness based on your barbecue sauce. Overheating the pulled pork can dry it out; just heat until hot and coated.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork sliders, smoky pulled pork, apple slaw, kid-friendly, quick dinner, 30-minute meal, slider recipe