Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders

Name: Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed; 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 burger buns; 1 cup coleslaw (optional)

Highlighted under: Busy Food

I absolutely love making these Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders! They’re not only simple but also packed with flavor. Cooking with jackfruit has been a delightful experience for me; its unique texture mimics pulled pork perfectly. The savory BBQ sauce elevates the flavors, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. I often serve these sliders with crunchy coleslaw, which adds an extra layer of texture. These sliders have become a staple at my home, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:06:34.755Z

When I first stumbled upon jackfruit as a meat alternative, I was skeptical yet intrigued. As I experimented with different recipes, I found the combination of tender jackfruit and bold BBQ sauce to be utterly irresistible. The result was a delicious BBQ Jackfruit Slider that even my meat-loving friends enjoyed. Each bite brings a mouthful of texture and flavor that has quickly made this dish one of my favorites.

I learned that simmering the jackfruit with spices before adding the BBQ sauce really enhances the flavors. There’s something special about letting it soak in that sauce, marrying the tastes together. I recommend letting the sliders rest for a few minutes after assembling; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Savory barbecue flavor that satisfyingly mimics pulled pork
Vegan-friendly, making it great for a diverse crowd
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or parties

      

Getting the Texture Just Right

Jackfruit’s unique texture is what makes it a fantastic meat substitute in this recipe. When preparing the jackfruit, it's essential to break apart the pieces sufficiently so they're not too chunky once cooked. Use a fork or spatula to shred the jackfruit as you sauté it. This will help it absorb the flavors of the spices and sauce, creating a cohesive filling that has that desired pulled texture.

After adding the BBQ sauce, let the jackfruit simmer and relax into a delicious sauce. I recommend keeping the flame on low—too high can dry the mixture out and lead to a less enjoyable texture. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the jackfruit is well-coated and tender.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

The beauty of this recipe lies in the versatility of the ingredients. Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces, whether you prefer a sweeter variety or one that has a more tangy kick. Additionally, smoked paprika plays a crucial role by adding depth; try substituting it with chipotle powder for a more pronounced smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile.

To elevate the sliders beyond just BBQ, consider adding toppings like sliced jalapeños, pickles, or avocados. These ingredients not only add freshness but also provide contrasting textures that make the sliders more exciting. You can even switch up the coleslaw by incorporating different dressings or adding apples for a touch of sweetness.

Make-Ahead Tips and Serving Suggestions

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how well it holds up for meal prep. You can prepare the BBQ jackfruit ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This allows the flavors to meld even further. When ready to serve, just reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it seems too dry.

For serving, these sliders are fantastic for gatherings, but you can also enjoy them as a quick weeknight dinner. Pairing them with a side of baked sweet potato fries or a simple green salad can create a balanced meal. If you're looking to impress, present them on a platter with an assortment of toppings and let guests build their own sliders!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your sliders delicious!

Ingredients

2 cans of young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 burger buns
1 cup coleslaw (optional)

Feel free to customize the slaw with your favorite ingredients!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your sliders.

Prep the Jackfruit

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained jackfruit, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, breaking apart the jackfruit pieces with a fork or spatula.

Add BBQ Sauce

Pour in the barbecue sauce and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the jackfruit to absorb the flavors.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the burger buns lightly, then spoon the BBQ jackfruit mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw if desired, and cover with the other half of the bun.

Enjoy your delicious sliders with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding pickles or jalapeños as toppings on your sliders.

Storage and Freezing

If you're looking to make a larger batch of these sliders, you can freeze the cooked jackfruit mixture. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This is an excellent way to ensure you always have a savory meal option on hand without the need to cook from scratch each time.

When reheating, aim for a gentle approach. Use a medium-low heat to preserve moisture rather than causing it to dry out. If you notice the jackfruit has thickened, adding a bit of water or extra BBQ sauce while heating will help revive that saucy quality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when preparing jackfruit is not breaking it apart enough. If the pieces remain large, they won’t absorb the flavors well, leading to a bland filling. Make sure your jackfruit is sufficiently shredded; this not only enhances flavor but also mimics the pulled texture you're aiming for.

Another pitfall is skipping the simmering step with the BBQ sauce. This step is vital for the jackfruit to soak up all the delicious sauce, enhancing its flavor significantly. A short simmer for 15 minutes might seem unimportant, but it makes all the difference for the final dish.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly adaptable! You can easily add spices like cumin or chili powder for added warmth. If you enjoy a tangy twist, consider mixing in some apple cider vinegar or even a little mustard into your BBQ sauce. These changes will introduce new flavor dynamics and can cater to various palates.

For those looking for a gluten-free option, simply choose gluten-free buns to serve alongside the jackfruit. You can also make lettuce wraps if you want to skip the carbs altogether. The jackfruit filling works beautifully wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, providing a lighter and refreshing alternative.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh jackfruit?

Yes, you can use fresh jackfruit! Just ensure it's young green jackfruit, and follow the same seasoning process.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free buns.

→ Can I make the jackfruit ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the jackfruit mixture in advance and reheat it when you're ready to assemble the sliders.

→ What can I serve alongside these sliders?

They pair well with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or baked beans.