Hawaiian BBQ Pork Sliders

Prep: 10 min.

Cook: over

Serves: 12

Aloha, foodie friends! Ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with a mouthwatering recipe that brings the flavors of Hawaii right to your plate? We’ve got three words for you: Hawaiian BBQ sliders.

These sliders are a flavor explosion, combining the smoky and sweet essence of traditional Hawaiian barbecue with a delicious pork rub. It's an easy, fun, and scrumptious dish that's perfect for any occasion, from laid-back summer gatherings to game-day feasts that crave a taste of the islands.

What should you serve with BBQ pork sliders?

Try pairing your pork sliders with tangy coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries. Remember to mix and match these sides based on your preferences and the occasion!

How much meat do you need for pulled pork sliders?

If you’re serving pulled pork sliders as part of a meal with other sides, plan for 2-3 sliders per person. In this case, 1 pound of cooked pulled pork can yield around 6-8 sliders, assuming each slider contains about 2-3 ounces of meat.

For larger gatherings, events, or parties where sliders might be the main feature, consider increasing the number of sliders per person. Planning for 3-4 sliders per person would require approximately 1.5-2 pounds of cooked pulled pork to yield around 18-24 sliders.

What are the best toppings for Hawaiian BBQ pork sliders?

Some delicious toppings for these Hawaiian barbecue pork sliders include grilled pineapple slices, pickled red onions, avocado, and jalapeños or spicy mayo. If you're hosting a get-together, try offering a variety of toppings to allow guests to customize their sliders.

These slow-cooked sliders are a flavor-packed luau in your mouth, so what are you waiting for? Whether you're hosting a Hawaiian-themed party or craving a taste of the islands, this recipe will transport you to a world of deliciousness. Let’s dive in!

1. Prepare the Pork Rub

In a medium mixing bowl, mix the brown sugar, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cumin, and cinnamon. Rub the spice mixture generously onto the pork butt, ensuring all sides are thoroughly coated.

Think of the pork rub as a flavor enhancer, infusing the meat with a blend of spices, herbs, and seasonings. In the case of Hawaiian pork, spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin contribute to the characteristic taste of Hawaiian cuisine.

Whether the pork is grilled, roasted, or slow-cooked, the spice rub forms a flavorful crust or bark on the exterior of the meat. This crust locks in the juices, enhancing the texture and providing a delightful contrast to the tender interior of the pork.

2. Slow Cooker Magic

Pour the King’s Hawaiian Smoked Bacon BBQ Sauce into the slow cooker. Then, set the seasoned pork into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 5-6 hours until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart.

Slow-cooking pork allows it to become incredibly tender and juicy. The long, slow cooking process breaks down the tough fibers in the meat, resulting in pork that practically melts in your mouth.

Plus, if you’re busy, slow cooking allows you to set it and forget it. It saves time on active cooking, so you can focus on other responsibilities while infusing your pork with delicious flavors.

3. Dive Into Tropical Bliss

Once the pork is cooked and tender, use two forks to shred it while still in the slow cooker, allowing it to soak up all that flavorful sauce. Then, slice your King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Dinner Rolls in half horizontally using a serrated knife and start assembling.

Spoon a generous amount of the Hawaiian barbecue pork onto the bottom half of each bun, top with red cabbage and add some Sriracha mayo for an extra kick. After you’ve finished topping off your sliders, top with the other half of the bun and secure each slider with a toothpick.

The unique sweet flavor of King's Hawaiian rolls enhances the overall taste of Hawaiian BBQ pork. The sweetness of the rolls melds wonderfully with the savory pork and complements the tanginess of the smoked bacon BBQ sauce, creating a melt-in-your-mouth flavor combination.

Serve these luscious slow-cooked sliders alongside your favorite island-inspired sides, like pineapple coleslaw or grilled pineapple salsa. Get ready to bask in the delightful flavors of smoky, sweet, and tangy goodness in every bite, embracing the tropical vibes right at your table!