Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders

Name: Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed; 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Slider buns; Coleslaw (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Home Cooking Favorites

I absolutely love making Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders for gatherings! The combination of tender, shredded jackfruit coated in a smoky BBQ sauce creates a satisfying and hearty dish that everyone can enjoy, whether they're vegan or just looking for something different. The sliders are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. There's something delightfully nostalgic about sliders for me, and this recipe takes me back to summer cookouts without missing out on any flavor.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:55:19.362Z

When I first tried jackfruit as a meat substitute, I was amazed by its texture. It shredded easily, and when paired with BBQ sauce, it created the perfect filling for sliders. I’ve experimented with various sauces, but my favorite is a homemade smoky BBQ that elevates the flavor without being overpowering. My tip? Let the jackfruit simmer for a while to really absorb those flavors.

Each time I serve these sliders at parties, I find that everyone is pleasantly surprised by how delicious they are. They’re not just for vegans; even my meat-loving friends rave about them. I usually serve them with coleslaw on the side for added crunch. It's a crowd-pleaser that I can’t recommend enough!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Savory and smoky BBQ flavor that’s finger-licking good
Jackfruit mimics the texture of pulled pork perfectly
A healthier slider option that still satisfies cravings

      

Understanding Jackfruit

Jackfruit is a versatile fruit that takes on the flavor of the ingredients used, which is why it works so perfectly in this BBQ sliders recipe. It has a naturally fibrous texture that closely resembles pulled pork when shredded. Using young green jackfruit is key, as it is less sweet and has a neutral flavor that easily absorbs the BBQ sauce, ensuring a delicious and satisfying bite.

When preparing the jackfruit, it's important to drain and rinse it thoroughly. This removes any briny taste that might affect the overall flavor of your sliders. Pay attention to the pulp and seeds; these can be easily broken down with a fork, creating the perfect texture for your sliders. If you can't find canned jackfruit, fresh young jackfruit can also be used, but you'll need to spend extra time preparing it.

BBQ Sauce Variations

The choice of BBQ sauce can greatly influence the final flavor of your sliders. If you prefer a kick of heat, consider using a spicy BBQ sauce or adding a dash of hot sauce to the jackfruit mixture. On the other hand, a sweeter sauce pairs beautifully with the slightly tangy coleslaw, balancing the flavors perfectly. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors like honey mustard or chipotle to create a unique twist that suits your taste buds.

If you're looking to reduce sugar, make your own sauce by combining tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, a sweetener of your choice, and spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder. This allows you to control the ingredients and customize the taste to your desire, making your sliders not only flavorful but also tailored to your dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These BBQ jackfruit sliders are ideal for meal prep or gatherings, as the jackfruit mixture can be made in advance. After cooking, allow the jackfruit to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring until warmed through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

If you're planning to freeze the jackfruit mixture, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers after cooling. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy your sliders, thaw the mixture overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. This makes it convenient to whip up quick meals without sacrificing taste or quality.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your sliders:

Ingredients for BBQ Jackfruit Sliders

1 can young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Slider buns
Coleslaw (optional, for serving)

Once you have all your ingredients, you’re ready to whip up these delicious sliders!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your own BBQ jackfruit sliders:

Prepare the Jackfruit

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Jackfruit

Add the jackfruit to the pan and use a fork to shred it slightly. Pour in the BBQ sauce, season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the jackfruit has absorbed the flavors and is tender, remove it from heat. Spoon the mixture onto slider buns and top with coleslaw if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Enjoy your tasty and hearty BBQ jackfruit sliders!

Enjoy your homemade sliders with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra smoky flavor, try adding some smoked paprika to the jackfruit as it cooks. You can also try different types of BBQ sauce or even add a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Serving Suggestions

For a burst of freshness, serve your BBQ jackfruit sliders with a side of tangy coleslaw. The crunch and acidity of the coleslaw complement the savory BBQ flavors, adding a delightful contrast. You can use store-bought coleslaw or whip up a quick batch with cabbage, carrots, and a simple vinaigrette for a healthier twist.

Feel free to add toppings to elevate your sliders! Sliced pickles, jalapeños, or avocados can offer extra flavor and texture. Placing a dollop of vegan mayo can give creaminess, while fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a pop of brightness, making every bite a new experience.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your jackfruit feels too dry while cooking, add a splash of water or more BBQ sauce to moisten it up. The goal is to maintain a nice, saucy consistency that clings to the slider buns. On the other hand, if it becomes too saucy or watery, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few minutes to let the excess liquid evaporate.

To ensure even cooking, make sure to shred the jackfruit into similar-sized pieces. This will help it absorb the BBQ sauce uniformly and avoid creating any chunky bits that may have different cooking times. Using two forks to shred it can help achieve the right texture more easily and quickly.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, scaling this recipe is straightforward. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly; each can of jackfruit yields about four sliders. To accommodate large crowds, consider preparing multiple batches of the jackfruit mixture in advance, as it can be easily reheated and assembled on the day of the event.

For smaller gatherings or meal prep, the sliders can easily be halved or made as single servings. The jackfruit mixture stores well, so you can prepare just enough for a cozy dinner or lunch without worrying about wasting any ingredients. It’s a flexible recipe that adapts to your needs while maintaining delicious flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh jackfruit if it's available. Make sure to choose young green jackfruit for best results.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover jackfruit can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked jackfruit filling. Just let it cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container.

→ What can I serve on the side?

These sliders pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or traditional coleslaw.