Dr Pepper Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

In this delicious recipe for Dr Pepper Pulled Pork Sliders, lean pork tenderloin is rubbed with a flavorful spice mix, slow cooked in a Dr Pepper barbecue-style sauce, shredded, and piled onto soft Hawaiian rolls. These sliders are an easy slow cooker option for busy weeknights, tailgates, or casual gatherings.

Slow cooker recipes are perfect for hands-off cooking, and this Dr Pepper Pulled Pork Slider recipe is no exception. It’s a crowd-pleasing combination of sweet, savory, and a touch of heat. The Dr Pepper adds a caramelized, slightly fruity note to the sauce that complements the tender pork. Use pork tenderloin for a leaner option, or swap in pork shoulder if you prefer the richer texture of traditional pulled pork.

Ingredients

• 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced (Vidalia recommended)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon paprika (use regular paprika for a balanced flavor)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2.5 pounds pork tenderloin (or 2–3 lb boneless pork shoulder for a fattier, more traditional pulled pork)
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 12 ounces Dr Pepper
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• 24 Hawaiian rolls (or other slider buns)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Prepare the base: Place the thinly sliced onion across the bottom of a slow cooker to create a flavor base and keep the pork elevated slightly.
2. Mix the seasoning: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes to form a dry rub.
3. Coat the pork: Pat the pork tenderloin dry, then rub the spice mixture all over the meat. Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions in the slow cooker.
4. Make the sauce: Whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dr Pepper, and tomato paste until smooth, then pour the mixture over the pork.
5. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
6. Shred the meat: Remove the pork to a cutting board or shred directly in the slow cooker with two forks, mixing it with the cooking juices for flavor.
7. Toast and assemble: If desired, toast the Hawaiian rolls briefly. Use tongs to pile the Dr Pepper pulled pork onto each roll and serve immediately.

Pro tips & substitutions

• Soda substitute: Any dark carbonated beverage will work in place of Dr Pepper—Coca-Cola, root beer, or cola blend. Each will shift the flavor slightly, so choose based on how sweet or caramelized you want the sauce.
• Choose your cut: Pork tenderloin yields lean, tender slices and is great for lighter sliders. For a richer, more traditional pulled pork texture, use a 2–3 pound boneless pork shoulder or pork butt.
• Added crunch: Top sliders with coleslaw or a kale-apple slaw for contrast and added freshness.
• Storage: Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5–7 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, adding a splash of liquid if it looks dry.
• Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container or zipper bag for up to 3 months. Leave about an inch of headspace for expansion.
• Versatile uses: Beyond sliders, this pulled pork is great on full-size buns, stuffed into baked potatoes or sweet potatoes, or folded into a grilled cheese for a hearty twist.

What to serve with them

These sliders are ideal for parties, game day, or a simple family meal. Pair them with complementary sides that balance texture and temperature:

• Crispy baked sweet potato fries
• Cheesy grilled potatoes
• Bacon, tomato & avocado pasta salad
• Classic potato salad with cheese
• Crispy air fryer French fries
• Simple coleslaw or a tangy vinegar slaw

More pork tenderloin recipes to try

If you enjoy cooking with pork tenderloin, here are a few recipe ideas to explore:

• Coffee-crusted balsamic pulled pork tenderloin
• Rosemary and sage pork tenderloin skewers
• Slow cooker sweet and sour pork tenderloin
• Pineapple teriyaki pork tenderloin (Whole30 friendly option)
• Pumpkin pulled pork tenderloin for seasonal flavor

Recipe details & nutrition

Recipe: Dr Pepper Pulled Pork Sliders
Servings: about 24 sliders
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 3–8 hours (depending on setting)
Total time: about 4 hours 15 minutes on average

Nutrition facts (approx. per slider)

• Calories: 185 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Protein: 13 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Sodium: 463 mg
• Sugar: 12 g

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a satisfying weeknight dinner, these Dr Pepper Pulled Pork Sliders are easy, flavorful, and versatile. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, leaving you plenty of time to prepare sides or enjoy the company of guests. Enjoy!