This Instant Pot Pulled Pork comes together in about 60 minutes and cooks all in one pot for a quick and easy weeknight meal that your family will love! Trust me; it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights with tons of flavor!
Ingredients for Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Creating a delicious pulled pork dish doesn’t have to be complicated, and this recipe is no exception! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2-3 pounds pork shoulder: This is the star of the show! You can also use pork butt if you prefer, as it works just as well.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For that gorgeous golden crust!
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Any kind you like! Homemade or store-bought will work just fine.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds moistness and depth of flavor.
- 1 onion, sliced: Sweet, caramelized onions are a must for that rich flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because who doesn’t love the smell of garlic cooking?
- 1 tablespoon paprika: Adds a beautiful color and a bit of smokiness.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: The secret ingredient that balances flavors and brings out sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Just a couple pinches to season.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: For a little bite!
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): If you like it spicy, go ahead and add this!
Each of these ingredients contributes to the amazing depth of flavor in this dish, making it a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again!
How to Make Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Let’s dive right into what you’re really here for: the steps to making this mouthwatering pulled pork in your Instant Pot. Seriously, it’s a breeze!
Season the Pork
First things first! Grab your pork shoulder and sprinkle a couple pinches of salt, black pepper, paprika, and brown sugar all over it. Give it a good rub to ensure those spices get in there nice and cozy.Sauté to Brown
Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, place the seasoned pork in there and brown it on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. This first step is so important because we’re sealing in all those yummy juices!Sauté the Aromatics
Remove the pork and set it aside. Now, toss the sliced onion and minced garlic into the pot, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and your kitchen smells completely divine, about 3-4 minutes. You want those onions to become translucent and fragrant.Deglaze the Pot
Add the chicken broth and BBQ sauce to the pot, and, this is key, use a wooden spoon to scrape the yummy bits off the bottom. Those little bits add so much flavor and shouldn’t be left behind!Combine and Cook
Place the pork back in the pot (don’t worry about any leftover seasoning on the plate). Close the lid, and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 60 minutes. I know what you’re thinking: just 60 minutes? Yes! And it’s going to be amazing!Natural Pressure Release
Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for about 10-15 minutes. After that, you can do a quick release for any remaining pressure. Just be careful, okay?Shred and Serve
Remove the pork from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Now comes the fun part, shred the pork using two forks. It should pull apart like… well, pulled pork! After shredding, mix the meat back with the sauce in the pot before serving. Oh my goodness, the flavors are so rich and inviting!
If you loved this pulled pork recipe, be sure to check out my Pulled Pork Taquitos for the perfect side or my Tender Braised Hawaiian Pork Shoulder! You won’t regret it!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This Instant Pot pulled pork really shines when it comes to speed. With just 60 minutes, you’re piling up plates of deliciousness without spending all day in the kitchen. It’s seriously a lifesaver on those busy weeknights!
One Pot
Who doesn’t love a meal that comes together all in one pot? This means minimal cleanup! Just one pot and you’re done, easy peasy. I’m all about making meals manageable, especially when dinner time rolls around after a long day.
Budget-Friendly
Pork shoulder is super affordable and feeds a crowd, making this recipe a winner for your wallet. Plus, it’s loaded with flavors, so you don’t have to break the bank to serve up a delicious meal.
Make-Ahead Friendly
Want to prep ahead of time? Just season the pork and store it in the fridge overnight. Then, when you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the Instant Pot. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Crowd-Pleaser
This pulled pork has all the makings of a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a game day gathering, everyone will be going for seconds. Trust me!
How to Serve This Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Now, let’s talk serving! This pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:
- Serve it on buns for a classic pulled pork sandwich. Top with some homemade coleslaw for that perfect crunch!
- Use it in tacos, just grab some corn tortillas and fill them up with pulled pork, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
- Enjoy it with some rice or mashed potatoes on the side for a hearty meal.
- Pair it with a nice, fresh salad to balance all that richness!
Storage and Reheating
- Storing the Pulled Pork: You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days in an airtight container.
- Reheating: The best way to reheat it? Just pop it back into the Instant Pot on the sauté setting until warmed through! You can also use a microwave, just add a splash of water to keep it moist.
- Freezer Friendly: Yes! You can freeze the pulled pork for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
So, there you have it! A delicious, comforting, and easy recipe for Instant Pot pulled pork that’ll quickly become a staple in your home, trust me! If you’re wondering what to do with the leftovers (if there are any, which there usually aren’t in my house), consider making pulled pork nachos or even a breakfast burrito. The possibilities are endless! And if you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out. Enjoy cooking!
Happy cooking, y’all! If you have questions or want to share tips, drop a comment below. Can’t wait to hear from you! And follow us on Pinterest for daily inspiration that brings warmth to your table!
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Ingredients
Method
- Season the pork by sprinkling salt, black pepper, paprika, and brown sugar all over it. Rub the spices into the pork.
- Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add the olive oil. Brown the seasoned pork on all sides for about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove the pork and sauté the sliced onion and minced garlic in the pot for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and BBQ sauce to the pot and deglaze with a wooden spoon.
- Return the pork to the pot, close the lid, and set to high pressure for 60 minutes.
- Once cooked, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Remove the pork from the pot, shred using two forks, and mix back with the sauce in the pot before serving.