Pulled Pork Hawaiian Sliders

There is nothing quite like a tray of pulled pork sliders coming out of the oven to feed a hungry crowd or make a simple weeknight dinner feel special. These sliders deliver juicy fall-apart pork simmered in a tangy sauce with just a hint of smoke and sweetness. Paired with pillowy Hawaiian rolls and gooey mozzarella every bite is a burst of comfort and flavor.

I made this recipe for a family reunion when I needed something that would please everyone and hold up on a buffet table. It was gone in minutes and now it is a go-to anytime we gather.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: For browning the onions and building extra flavor. Choose a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best result
• Yellow onion: Delivers mellow sweetness and aromatic depth. Look for onions that feel firm with shiny skin and no green sprouts
• Fresh garlic: Boosts savory notes. Use plump heavy bulbs with tight skin for maximum freshness
• Pork shoulder: Becomes incredibly tender when slow cooked. Pick a cut with some marbling for juicy sliders
• Smoked paprika: Brings gentle heat and a smoky edge. Try to find a robust Spanish variety for richer flavor
• Dried thyme: Adds earthiness that balances the rich pork. Rub between fingers to release its aroma as you add
• Salt: Essential for seasoning the pork and drawing out flavor as it cooks
• Dijon mustard: Spikes the sauce with tang and complexity. Use a smooth quality jar for bold flavor
• BBQ sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy hit. I recommend using your favorite brand or a smoky homemade version
• Beef broth: Forms the cooking liquid and infuses savoriness. Choose low sodium if you want more control over salt
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and gives each bite a creamy pull. Use pre-shredded for convenience or grate fresh for the best melt
• Hawaiian rolls: Are delightfully soft and a little sweet which balances the tangy pork. Choose fresh packs that spring back when pressed

Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics:

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook slowly for 5 to 8 minutes until translucent and starting to caramelize. This builds a sweet savory base for your pulled pork. Once onions are softened add the minced garlic and cook one minute longer to unlock their aroma

Season and Add the Pork:

Rub the pork shoulder on all sides with the smoked paprika dried thyme and salt. Make sure to massage the seasonings in well to flavor every bite. Nestle the pork over your sautéed onions and garlic letting the flavors mingle at the bottom of the pot

Simmer with Sauce and Broth:

Pour the Dijon mustard BBQ sauce and beef broth around the pork. Stir gently to combine everything. Cover the pot with a lid and turn the heat to low so the pork cooks gently and stays juicy

Cook Low and Slow:

Let the pork cook for one hour without disturbing. Lift the lid turn the pork over and cook for another 30 to 45 minutes. Test the pork with a fork and if it yields easily shred it right in the pan so the meat soaks up those delicious juices. Keep simmering the pulled pork uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes so the flavor intensifies without drying out

Assemble the Sliders:

While the pork finishes cooking preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the Hawaiian rolls on a baking tray then use tongs or a spoon to layer the pulled pork onto the rolls making sure to get some sauce in every portion. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the meat

Add the Finishing Touches:

For extra lusciousness melt a little butter and brush it over the tops of the buns. A sprinkle of dried oregano is optional but adds a fragrant finish and attractive color

Bake to Serve:

Cover the tray loosely with foil so the cheese melts but the buns do not get too brown. Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the sliders are heated through. Serve piping hot for the best texture

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One of my favorite touches in this recipe is brushing the buns with a quick sweep of melted butter and oregano. My daughter insists it is not a party without that shiny buttery top and I have to agree

Storage Tips

Leftover sliders or just the pulled pork keep well in the fridge for three to four days. The pork itself can also be frozen in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Warm gently to keep the pork juicy and avoid overcooking the rolls on reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Pork shoulder is classic but boneless pork butt or even chicken thighs can work if that is what you have on hand. Monterey jack or cheddar make excellent subs for mozzarella. Try using soft potato rolls or brioche buns if Hawaiian rolls are unavailable although the sweet flavor really shines with this combo

Serving Suggestions

Serve with classic coleslaw or tangy pickles to cut through the richness. These sliders are also great with potato salad baked beans or alongside a green salad for lighter occasions. For parties set out hot sauce or extra BBQ sauce for guests to customize

Cultural Context

Pulled pork traces back to Southern US barbecue where slow cooked pork becomes meltingly tender and full of smoky flavor. Hawaiian rolls bring a tropical twist and when these flavors meet in a slider you get a dish beloved for both potlucks and home kitchens. Sharing sliders like these always sparks stories about summer cookouts in my family

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Enjoy these sliders hot with your favorite sides for a meal that brings people together. They will disappear quickly so consider making a double batch if you have extra guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bread for the sliders?

Yes, you can substitute Hawaiian rolls with brioche or soft dinner rolls, but Hawaiian rolls add a distinct sweetness.

→ What cut of pork works best?

Pork shoulder is ideal due to its tenderness and marbling, but pork butt also works well for shredding.

→ How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?

Bake the assembled sliders briefly and use a slotted spoon to drain some sauce before adding meat to buns.

→ Is it possible to make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook the pork ahead and reheat before assembling and baking the sliders for best texture.

→ Can I add other toppings to the sliders?

Absolutely! Add coleslaw, pickles, or extra cheese for more flavor and crunch.