Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Sliders Recipe

If you are craving a comfort food mashup that hits every note of deliciousness, look no further than this Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Sliders Recipe. Imagine tender, smoky pulled pork piled high on soft slider buns, crowned with creamy, cheesy macaroni that’s rich and perfectly seasoned. These sliders are the ultimate party pleaser, combining two all-time favorites into one handheld bundle of joy. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just want a fun twist on dinner, these sliders bring together comfort and indulgence in a way that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a vital role to deliver a balance of flavors and satisfying textures. From the creamy cheese sauce to the tender pulled pork, every element comes together effortlessly for a dish that dazzles.

• Macaroni noodles: Use uncooked elbow macaroni for that classic bite and structure.
• Butter: Adds richness both to the cheese sauce and the slider buns, ensuring moistness and flavor.
• Flour: This helps thicken the cheese sauce to creamy perfection without graininess.
• Salt, pepper, and ground mustard: A trio of seasonings to elevate the cheese sauce with just the right subtle bite.
• Milk: The base for the sauce, creating that silky, luscious texture you want in mac and cheese.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: The star in the cheese sauce, providing bold flavor and smooth melt.
• Slider buns: Soft and perfect for small, handheld servings that everyone can enjoy.
• Prepared pulled pork: Tender, shredded pork brings savory depth and smoky goodness.
• Garlic salt, dried parsley, and brown sugar: These add a flavorful, slightly sweet glaze on the buns’ tops.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a golden finish with a hint of nuttiness.

How to Make Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. Cook the uncooked macaroni noodles according to the package instructions until perfectly tender, then drain well. This small step is critical because the macaroni serves as the base of the creamy cheese component inside your sliders.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, pepper, and ground mustard, cooking for about a minute while whisking to form a roux. This is what thickens your cheese sauce and gives it great body.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Turn the heat up to medium-high and slowly whisk in milk. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens into a velvety texture. The gradual addition and constant whisking prevent lumps and ensure that smooth, luscious finish we all love in mac and cheese.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Lower the heat and whisk in the sharp cheddar cheese until it melts seamlessly into the sauce. Once it’s creamy and rich, set this heavenly mac and cheese aside while you warm the pulled pork.

Step 5: Heat the Pulled Pork

Warm the prepared pulled pork in the microwave or on the stove according to package instructions. The pulled pork should be tender and juicy, ready to be layered beautifully inside your sliders.

Step 6: Assemble the Sliders

Slice the slider buns in half using a large serrated knife. Spread the bottom halves with a couple of tablespoons of butter and arrange them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. This butter ensures those bottoms stay soft and flavorful after baking.

Step 7: Layer the Pulled Pork

Evenly spread the warmed pulled pork on each buttered bottom bun. This creates a savory base for our creamy mac and cheese topping, melding flavors together in every bite.

Step 8: Add the Mac and Cheese

Now spoon the mac and cheese over the pulled pork layers, making sure each slider gets a generous helping. This gooey layer is what sets these sliders apart from your ordinary sandwich.

Step 9: Top and Glaze

Place the top halves of the buns over the mac and cheese. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic salt, dried parsley, and brown sugar, then brush this flavorful blend over the tops of the buns for that sweet-savory glaze everyone craves.

Step 10: Finish with Parmesan

Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the glazed tops of the buns. This adds a golden crust and a touch of nutty flavor that perfectly complements the fillings below.

Step 11: Bake Until Golden

Bake the sliders in your preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes until the tops turn golden and irresistibly crispy. These sliders are fantastic hot right from the oven or even at room temperature when flavors have a chance to meld.

How to Serve Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Sliders Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a little extra shredded cheddar cheese on the side for those who want even more cheesy goodness. Pickles or jalapeño slices can add a nice tangy or spicy contrast that livens up each bite.

Side Dishes

These sliders shine when paired with simple sides like crunchy coleslaw, oven-roasted vegetables, or crispy sweet potato fries. Each side adds a textural or flavor balance that rounds out the meal without overshadowing the star sliders.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at parties, serve the sliders on a large wooden board arranged in neat rows with small toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also prepare mini skewers of pickles, cherry tomatoes, or olives alongside for a playful presentation that elevates the whole experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, cover the sliders tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for quick, comforting meals later on.

Freezing

You can freeze these sliders assembled or just the filling separately. Wrap them well in foil and place in a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve their texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350℉ for about 10-15 minutes until warm throughout. Avoid microwaving directly unless necessary, as the oven will help maintain the sliders’ crisp tops and creamy interiors much better.

FAQs

Can I make the pulled pork from scratch for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade pulled pork slow-cooked with your favorite spices will add even more depth of flavor. Just substitute your cooked pork for the prepared one and follow the rest of the recipe as is.

What kind of cheese works best in the mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is classic for its bold flavor and great melt, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or gouda for extra creaminess. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt smoothly.

Can these sliders be made vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the pulled pork with a flavorful plant-based pulled “pork” alternative or slow-roasted vegetables like mushrooms or jackfruit to keep the texture and heartiness.

Is there a way to make these sliders spicier?

Definitely. Add a little cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or mix in diced jalapeños with the pulled pork. Brushing a spicy BBQ sauce on the buns before assembling adds another kick.

How can I keep the slider buns from getting soggy?

Butter the buns well before baking and avoid adding too much mac and cheese too close to the edges. Baking the sliders just until golden helps keep them from becoming overly soft.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Sliders Recipe is one of those crowd-pleasing dishes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s rich, comforting, and easy to share, making it perfect for everything from game days to casual family dinners. Give it a try and watch everyone’s faces light up with every cheesy, savory bite.

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