Score Touchdowns of Flavor with BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders: The Ultimate Super Bowl Party Food!

Calling all football fans and finger-food fanatics! Are you gearing up for the Super Bowl and seeking the perfect recipe to wow your party guests? Look no further than these epic BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders. They’re flavorful, portable, and oh-so-satisfying, guaranteed to score major touchdowns with everyone who takes a bite.

But wait, there’s more! This recipe is also a total game-changer in terms of convenience. We’re using the magic of the Crock-Pot to slow-cook our pork to fall-apart perfection, leaving you free to mingle, cheer, and soak up the Super Bowl festivities.

So, huddle up and get ready to cook! Here’s everything you need to know to create these winning sliders:

Ingredients:

• 1 (2-2.5 lb) boneless pork shoulder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 (12-ounce) bottle your favorite BBQ sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

For the sliders:

• Mini hamburger buns (about 24)
• Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
• Pickled red onion slices
• BBQ sauce (additional, for serving)

Instructions:

Prep the Pork and Spices:

1. Rinse the pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat, but don’t be too aggressive – a little fat adds flavor!
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Slow-Cook to Perfection:

1. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in your Crock-Pot. Pour in the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Cover the Crock-Pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.

Shred and Sauce:

1. Carefully remove the pork from the Crock-Pot and shred it with two forks, discarding any excess fat.
2. Return the shredded pork to the Crock-Pot and mix it with some of the cooking liquid, until it reaches your desired consistency (more liquid for saucier sliders, less for drier ones).
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You can add more BBQ sauce, spices, or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.

Assemble and Serve:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Split the mini hamburger buns in half and arrange them on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly golden brown and crispy.
3. Spoon the pulled pork onto the toasted bun bottoms. Top with coleslaw, pickled red onion slices, and a drizzle of additional BBQ sauce, if desired.
4. Serve immediately and watch your guests devour these delicious sliders like champs!

Tips for Success:

• Use bone-in pork shoulder for extra flavor, but bone-out is perfectly fine too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in pork may take longer to cook through.
• Don’t skip the browning step at the end! It adds a touch of crispness and makes the sliders even more irresistible.
• Get creative with your toppings! Experiment with different BBQ sauces, coleslaw variations, or even add a dollop of sour cream or jalapeño peppers for a spicy kick.
• Make this recipe ahead of time! The pulled pork can be stored in