Apple Butter BBQ Pork Sliders

These little sliders were so good, y'all! The apple butter really added a nice depth of flavor to the barbecue pork. Nothing too overpowering (or sweet, as you might think), just a nice subtle hint of flavor. It was especially fitting for this time of year. (Not to say that you couldn't make this dish year round, because you absolutely could!) 

Sliders are a favorite food for many kids. Their small size makes them perfect for little fingers to pick up and enjoy. Who am I kidding, I know quite a few adults (myself included) that would prefer sliders to a big messy sandwich - especially in public! I don't know about you, but I am the world's worst about wearing something that was supposed to go in my mouth. ;) 

These little sliders are also perfect for a party. Family gatherings, tailgate parties, any kind of get together - Bring these little guys along, and everyone will be happy. 

 Printable Recipe 
Ingredients:

• 2 Tbs Oil (Vegetable, Canola, or Olive)
• 2 1/2 - 3 lbs Boneless Pork Loin
• 1 Vidalia Onion, sliced very thin
• Salt & Pepper
• 1/2 cup Apple Butter
• 1 cup Barbecue Sauce (like Sweet Baby Rays) 
• 1/3 cup Apple Cider (not vinegar)
• 24 pack Hawaiian Sweet Rolls

Optional Condiments:

• Mayonnaise
• Sliced Cheese
• Sliced Dill Pickles

Method:

Heat the oil in a skillet over high heat. While that is heating up, season the pork loin with salt and pepper. Sear all sides of the loin in the hot skillet. Transfer the meat to a slow cooker, but leave any oil or drippings in the skillet.

Reduce the heat on the skillet to medium high. Slice your Vidalia onion as thin as you can and add the slices to the skillet. Saute the onion in the excess oil, until it has softened and is just beginning to brown. Transfer the onion to the slow cooker with the meat.  

In a small bowl, combine the apple butter, barbecue sauce, and apple cider. Pour the mixture over the top of your pork loin and onions. Stir all the way around the loin, so that the onions are coated, and won't burn.

Cook on High for 3 - 4 hours, or on low for 4 - 6 hours.

Remove the pork loin to a plate and shred the meat. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, and give everything a good stir. 

Serve on sliced Hawaiian sweet rolls. They taste great as is, or you can dress them up a bit - with a little mayonnaise, cheese, and/or dill pickle. :o) 

Makes 24 Sliders

Enjoy!