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 brine, drained and rinsed; 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Coleslaw for serving (optional); Pickles for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen Magic

I absolutely love making these Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders for a quick and satisfying meal. The jackfruit absorbs all the flavors of the smoky barbecue sauce, resulting in a deliciously hearty filling that pairs perfectly with soft slider buns. Whether it's for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these sliders never fail to impress. Plus, they're incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen. I can't wait for you to try these mouthwatering bites!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:01:22.198Z

Making these BBQ Jackfruit Sliders has become a ritual for me when I want a filling yet healthy meal. I discovered the beauty of jackfruit as a meat substitute, and it never ceases to amaze me how versatile it is. I paired it with a rich homemade BBQ sauce that elevates the dish to another level of deliciousness.

Each bite is a burst of flavor, and I love serving them with crunchy coleslaw and pickles on the side for a refreshing contrast. If you want the sliders to pack even more flavor, let the jackfruit marinate in the sauce for a bit before cooking!

Why You'll Love These Sliders
Rich barbecue flavor with a hint of sweetness
Perfectly tender jackfruit that mimics pulled pork
Quick to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights

Understanding Jackfruit

Jackfruit is a unique ingredient increasingly gaining popularity in vegan and vegetarian dishes. Its fibrous texture mimics pulled pork, making it a fantastic meat substitute, particularly in recipes like sliders. When shopping for jackfruit, ensure you select young green jackfruit in brine, as ripe jackfruit tastes sweet and won't provide the savory flavor you want in this dish. The young jackfruit absorbs flavors well, allowing the barbecue sauce to elevate its taste remarkably.

When preparing the jackfruit, it's essential to drain and rinse it thoroughly. This step ensures that the briny flavor does not overpower the dish. While cooking, keep the heat medium, as higher temperatures can cause the jackfruit to become tough. The goal is to warm it through so that it continues absorbing flavors from the barbecue sauce.

Perfecting BBQ Sauce Integration

The integration of barbecue sauce is crucial for achieving the dish's signature flavor. After sautéing the onion and garlic, adding the drained jackfruit should be done carefully to not overcrowd the pan. This method allows for even cooking and prevents the jackfruit from steaming instead of sautéing. Stirring well is essential to ensure every piece of jackfruit is evenly coated with sauce; this enhances its deliciousness and texture.

Allow the jackfruit and barbecue sauce to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time lets the flavors meld beautifully while ensuring the mixture stays moist. If you find the mixture sticking to the pan, a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce can be added for a smoother consistency.

Assembly and Serving Suggestions

When assembling the sliders, I recommend using soft, fresh slider buns to enhance the overall texture. Lightly toasting the buns on a skillet for 2-3 minutes can add a lovely crunch, providing a nice contrast to the tender jackfruit. For the toppings, I love adding coleslaw for an additional crunch and freshness. Feel free to customize it according to your taste by adding hot sauce or different pickles.

These sliders not only make a delightful main dish but can also shine at gatherings. To elevate the slider experience, consider serving with sweet potato fries or corn on the cob. For meal prep, the jackfruit mixture can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders:

Ingredients

1 can young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Coleslaw for serving (optional)
Pickles for serving (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start making these delicious sliders!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders:

Prepare the Jackfruit

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 5 minutes. Next, add the drained jackfruit to the pan, and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Add BBQ Sauce

Once the jackfruit is heated, pour in the barbecue sauce and stir to combine. Use a fork to shred the jackfruit into smaller pieces, mixing it well with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Sliders

To assemble, place a generous amount of the BBQ jackfruit mixture on the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with coleslaw and pickles if desired, then place the top bun over each slider.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders warm and enjoy them with your favorite side dishes!

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for leftovers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add jalapeños or hot sauce to the jackfruit mixture while cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover BBQ jackfruit, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, it will keep well for up to four days. To reheat, simply place the jackfruit in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to maintain moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes.

For longer storage, consider freezing the jackfruit mixture. Scoop portions into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to use, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize the flavor profile of your BBQ jackfruit sliders! You can mix up the barbecue sauce by adding spices such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick. Alternatively, adding a spoonful of maple syrup can enhance the sweetness, giving it a unique twist. Experimenting with homemade sauces can elevate this dish to a whole new level.

Additionally, for those looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps. This allows everyone to enjoy the hearty flavors of the sliders without compromising dietary needs while still packing in all the savory goodness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to use young green jackfruit, as ripe jackfruit is sweet and not suitable for savory dishes.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover jackfruit filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free buns to make the sliders gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders go well with a side of sweet potato fries, salad, or a refreshing cucumber salad.