Delicious Instant Pot Pulled Pork served on a bun with toppings

Instant Pot Pulled Pork

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Instant Pot Pulled Pork is a dish that gives you the comfort of home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen. With an Instant Pot, you can easily create tender, flavorful pulled pork in a fraction of the time it usually takes. Plus, it’s versatile—great for sandwiches, tacos, or simply enjoyed on its own. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe will satisfy everyone at the table.

How to Make Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 pounds pork shoulder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
  3. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, then sear it in the Instant Pot until browned on all sides.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and BBQ sauce, ensuring the pork is well coated.
  5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set it to pressure cook on high for 60 minutes.
  6. Once done, let it naturally release pressure for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  7. Remove the pork, shred with forks, and mix with the remaining sauce in the pot.
  8. Serve on buns or with sides of your choice.

How to Serve Instant Pot Pulled Pork

You can serve the pulled pork on fresh sandwich buns for a delicious BBQ sandwich. Add some coleslaw for a crunchy topping. It’s also great served over rice or with a side of beans. Feel free to get creative with your favorite toppings or side dishes!

How to Store Instant Pot Pulled Pork

After making the pulled pork, let it cool completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the pulled pork for up to three months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Instant Pot Pulled Pork

  • For even more flavor, marinate the pork shoulder overnight with your favorite spices or BBQ sauce.
  • If you like it spicy, add a dash of cayenne pepper or your preferred hot sauce.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to at least 195°F for the best shredding results.

Variation

You can substitute the BBQ sauce with a different sauce, like a spicy chipotle sauce, for a kick. Additionally, you can use other cuts of meat, like pork loin or boneless ribs, but cooking times may vary.

FAQs

Can I use frozen pork shoulder in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use frozen pork shoulder, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 80 minutes.

What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?
You can use any BBQ sauce you like! Sweet, tangy, or smoky—choose your favorite.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can make pulled pork in a slow cooker. Just cook it on low for 8-10 hours instead.