Easy Pulled Pork Hawaiian Sliders

Pulled pork sliders tucked into pillowy Hawaiian rolls are my go-to for gatherings both big and small. Their sweet and savory bite, soft crunch of coleslaw, and melty cheddar cheese win over every crowd. I first made these for a birthday party and watched them disappear in minutes—someone even went back for a third before grabbing a napkin. They are that good and truly effortless.

When my family keeps asking for something on game day, I know I have a winner. These sliders hit every mark for taste, ease, and fun. No one leaves hungry.

Ingredients

• Pulled pork: I like to use homemade for tenderness and smoky flavor but store-bought saves time just make sure it is well seasoned and moist
• Barbecue sauce: Pick a brand you genuinely like since it carries so much flavor bold and tangy styles are my favorite for balance
• Slider buns: Hawaiian rolls give sweetness that highlights the pork look for ones that are soft and fresh or try potato rolls for a heartier texture
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly for that gooey bite grate it yourself for the best melt and sharp taste
• Coleslaw: Adds crunch and freshness to offset the richness pick a blend with cabbage and carrots for color and snap
• Melted butter: Creates a glossy golden finish take a sniff to make sure it is fresh before using
• Brown sugar and garlic powder: Mix these into the butter for a sweet and savory topping choose light brown sugar so it caramelizes well
• Poppy seeds: Optional but add crunch and a classic slider look use seeds that are fragrant and plump

Step-by-Step Instructions

PREHEAT AND PREP:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with soft butter Line a separate baking sheet with parchment paper so buns do not stick

HEAT THE PORK:

Warm your cooked pulled pork and barbecue sauce in a saucepan over medium low heat Stir often until the mixture is hot and saucy You can microwave it instead if needed stirring every thirty seconds to avoid drying out

ASSEMBLE THE SLIDERS:

Slice your Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally do not separate them into individual pieces Place the bottoms in the greased dish Spoon on the warm pork spreading all the way to the edges Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar Cover the dish snugly with foil to prevent dryness

BAKE THE BOTTOMS:

Bake the dish for about ten minutes until the cheese is bubbling This gently toasts the rolls underneath while melting the cheese perfectly

PREPARE THE TOP BUNS:

While the sliders bake whisk melted butter brown sugar garlic powder and poppy seeds in a bowl Lay the top buns cut side down on the parchment baking sheet Brush with the butter mixture until glossy and evenly coated

TOAST THE TOPS:

When the bottom sliders have been in for eight minutes slide the baking sheet with tops onto another rack Toast them for about two minutes so they get lightly crisp and golden

FINISH AND SERVE:

Remove everything from the oven Peel off the foil carefully Spoon coleslaw over the cheesy pork and finish with the toasted tops Cut into individual sliders using a serrated knife for clean slices Serve immediately with extra barbecue sauce if you like

Save Pin

My favorite ingredient is the coleslaw since it brightens up the whole plate Every family event ends with someone scraping the bowl for the last crunchy shreds The sliders always remind me of summer parties at my aunt’s house where these would vanish long before dessert made it out

Storing Your Sliders

Let leftover sliders cool to room temperature before storing Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days For best results store the pulled pork filling separately to avoid soggy buns Freeze for up to three months wrapped tightly in plastic and foil and reheat straight from the fridge or freezer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit The oven keeps the rolls crisp while warming the filling

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch the protein and it will still taste amazing Try cooked shredded chicken or even cooked beef brisket for a unique twist Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or provolone or go low and slow with smoked gouda Vegetarians at your table can enjoy these with pulled jackfruit or plant based barbecue options Do not be shy with toppings sliced pickles crispy onions or jalapenos are all welcome

Serving Ideas

Pulled pork sliders are at home next to picnic classics like pasta salad or potato casserole They are fun with salty snacks like kettle chips or air fryer fries For a lighter plate add a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette Having these for lunch or game day It is easy to keep extras warm in the oven set at a low temperature so guests can help themselves

Save Pin

The Heart of a Party Food

Pulled pork sliders might look simple but they are tied to potlucks and sporting events across the country The sweet rolls were first made famous in Hawaii and now appear at family tables from coast to coast Their rise in popularity comes from their easy sharing and endless options to make each batch taste a little different I like to think every gathering feels a little warmer once a tray of these appears

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What type of pork should I use?

Use any cooked pulled pork. Homemade, slow-cooked, or store-bought options all work well for these sliders.

→ Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to the baking step. Store in the fridge and bake just before serving to keep them fresh and warm.

→ What cheese pairs best with pulled pork?

Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend based on preference.

→ Are there alternatives to Hawaiian rolls?

Pretzel buns, potato rolls, or any soft slider buns can be used for a delicious variation.

→ How do I keep sliders from getting soggy?

Toast the top buns separately and add coleslaw just before serving. Store leftover filling apart from the buns when possible.

→ What toppings go well with pulled pork sliders?

Try pickles, onions, jalapeños, pineapple, or even bacon for added flavor and texture.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through.