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, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Coleslaw (optional, for topping); Pickles (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Smart Quick Meals Collection

I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy BBQ Jackfruit Sliders! This dish quickly became a favorite in my household, not only for its incredible flavors but also for its ease of preparation. Using young jackfruit as a substitute for meat delivers a satisfying texture that absorbs the bold BBQ sauce beautifully. These sliders are perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, providing a delicious, plant-based option that even meat-lovers can appreciate. I love how versatile they are—you can easily customize the toppings and sauces to suit your taste!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:21:34.951Z

When I first tried jackfruit, I was skeptical about how well it would work in a BBQ dish. After experimenting with different spices and sauces, I discovered that when cooked down, jackfruit mimics pulled pork in both flavor and texture. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking for a satisfying plant-based meal. I often serve these sliders at parties, and they never fail to impress my guests!

A crucial tip I learned is to let the jackfruit marinate in the BBQ sauce for at least 20 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply and result in a rich, smoky taste. Pair the sliders with coleslaw or pickles for an extra crunch, and you’re in for a treat!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Tender jackfruit soaked in zesty BBQ sauce
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners

      

Understanding Jackfruit

Young green jackfruit is a fantastic plant-based alternative to meat, largely due to its ability to absorb flavors. When cooked, jackfruit takes on a shredded texture reminiscent of pulled pork. This is particularly beneficial in sliders, as it holds together well while still being tender. Choosing the right jackfruit is crucial; ensure you use young green jackfruit preserved in brine, which will have the right consistency for this recipe. Avoid ripe jackfruit, as it is too sweet and mushy.

The brining process also plays a significant role in the dish's final flavor. Before starting, make sure to thoroughly rinse and drain the jackfruit, as excess salt can overpower the bold BBQ sauce. After rinsing, use a fork or your fingers to break apart the jackfruit while it cooks, ensuring it evenly absorbs the BBQ flavors. Cooking it with onion and garlic adds depth, making every bite a savory delight.

Customizing Your Sliders

One of the most enjoyable aspects of making these BBQ jackfruit sliders is the endless customization options. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a creamy touch, consider adding jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat. If you opt for coleslaw, a tangy vinegar-based slaw can balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce beautifully. Experimenting with different toppings allows you to personalize each slider to your taste preferences, creating a fresh experience every time you prepare them.

For a heartier version, feel free to incorporate additional ingredients like smoked paprika or liquid smoke into your jackfruit mixture for a smoky flavor profile. Alternatively, try swapping out barbecue sauce for a teriyaki or Asian-inspired sauce for a unique twist. Handling the coleslaw separately rather than mixing it in can also add crunch, providing a delightful texture contrast to the tender jackfruit.

Storing and Making Ahead

These BBQ jackfruit sliders are great for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The jackfruit mixture can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just reheat it gently over low heat before serving to maintain tenderness, and be sure to avoid overheating, which could make it dry.

If you're looking to freeze your sliders, the jackfruit mixture freezes well for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Assemble your sliders fresh with buns and toppings just before serving, as this will maintain the bun's integrity and prevent sogginess. This makes these sliders an excellent option for both spontaneous gatherings and planned meals!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

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, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slider buns
Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Pickles (optional, for serving)

Make sure to rinse the jackfruit well to remove excess brine. You can also replace store-bought BBQ sauce with your own homemade version for a personal touch!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your sliders:

Prepare the Jackfruit

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add the jackfruit to the pan, breaking it apart with a fork or spoon. Season with salt and pepper.

Add BBQ Sauce

Pour the barbecue sauce over the jackfruit mixture. Stir to combine and coat all the pieces thoroughly. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the jackfruit is well-cooked and tender, remove it from heat. Spoon the jackfruit mixture onto each slider bun and top with coleslaw, if desired. Serve immediately with pickles on the side.

Enjoy your delicious sliders as a perfect meal any day of the week!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the jackfruit in the BBQ sauce overnight. This will enhance the taste and make cooking time even easier. Also, feel free to experiment with different toppings like jalapeños or vegan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

When serving these sliders, consider pairing them with classic sides like sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad. The sweetness of the fries complements the jackfruit's flavor while adding a crunchy texture. Alternatively, a light salad can balance the richness of the BBQ sauce, providing a refreshing contrast.

For a complete BBQ spread, consider offering a variety of toppings and sauces on the side. You might include options like sliced red onions, avocado, or different mustards to elevate the flavor profile even further. This encourages guests to personalize their sliders, making the meal interactive and enjoyable.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the jackfruit is too fibrous after cooking, it likely needs more time on the heat to become tender. Let it simmer longer to break down the fibers, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking; if cooking a larger batch, consider doing it in two smaller skillets.

In case your BBQ mixture appears too thick while cooking, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve the desired consistency. A too-thick sauce can overpower the jackfruit, so aim for a saucy yet cohesive texture that allows the jackfruit to shine through.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe easily scales up for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the ingredient quantities proportionally. For instance, each can of jackfruit typically yields about 2-3 servings, so for a party of 10, consider using 3-4 cans and doubling the other ingredients as needed. Cooking time might slightly increase, so ensure that you're simmering long enough for all the jackfruit to become tender.

When scaling up, ensure you have a sufficiently large skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate the larger volume without overcrowding. If you find you need more sauce, feel free to make a simple homemade BBQ sauce by combining ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices to keep the flavors balanced across a larger batch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh jackfruit instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh jackfruit! Just ensure it’s young green jackfruit and follow similar preparation steps.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free slider buns.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze the jackfruit mixture?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked jackfruit mixture. Thaw and reheat before serving on buns.