There’s something undeniably inviting about the aroma of BBQ wafting through the house, especially when you know it’s just a matter of minutes before you can dig into a plate of tender, flavor-packed pulled pork. I discovered this quick and easy BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork recipe on a particularly busy weeknight when takeout just wouldn’t cut it. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to transform juicy pork shoulder into mouthwatering strands of goodness with minimal fuss.
Not only does the Instant Pot cut down on cooking time, but it also infuses each bite with a rich, smoky flavor that rivals the best backyard barbecues. Imagine serving this shredded pork in soft tortillas for tacos, nestled between buns for sandwiches, or even over a bed of rice for a cozy meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or inviting friends over for game night, this one-pot wonder will impress without demanding hours in the kitchen. Let’s get started on this taste sensation that will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Why is BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork a Game-Changer?
Quick Preparation: In just 90 minutes, you can enjoy tender pulled pork without the long wait.
One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans; everything cooks beautifully in your Instant Pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Versatile Dish: Serve it in sandwiches, tacos, or atop rice. This recipe adapts to your meal preference!
Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and barbecue sauce infuses the pork with a deep, savory taste that will delight your taste buds.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its mouthwatering aroma and deliciously tender texture.
BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork Ingredients
For the Pork
• Pork Shoulder – The heart of this dish; boneless cuts work best for easy shredding.
• Olive Oil – Used for browning the pork; enhances flavor and prevents it from sticking to the pot.
For the Dry Rub
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness; adjust to your taste for the perfect balance in the BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork.
• Paprika – Provides color and a subtle smokiness to the mix.
• Garlic Powder – Boosts the overall flavor profile; essential for that savory kick.
• Onion Powder – Adds depth and richness to the dry rub combination.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors; don’t skip this crucial ingredient for optimal taste.
• Black Pepper – Introduces a touch of heat; adjust according to your preference.
• Chili Powder – For a hint of warmth and an extra flavor dimension in your rub.
For the Barbecue Sauce
• Store-Bought BBQ Sauce – A convenient option to add sweetness and tang; choose your favorite brand for best results.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Offers acidity; cuts through the richness of the pork for a balanced taste.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami; deepens the flavor and complements the barbecue sauce beautifully.
• Mustard – Provides a slight tang; elevates the overall flavor of the sauce.
Make sure to gather all the ingredients for this BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork before starting; the simplicity will have you enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
How to Make BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork
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Combine the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients. This flavorful blend will coat your pork shoulder, ensuring every bite is packed with taste!
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Prepare the Barbecue Sauce: Whisk together the barbecue sauce ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth. This sauce will bring a delightful sweetness and tang to the pulled pork.
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Season the Pork: Generously coat the pork shoulder pieces with the prepared dry rub. Make sure every inch is covered for that delicious burst of flavor in your BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork.
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Brown the Pork: Set your Instant Pot to sauté and heat the olive oil. Brown the pork pieces on all sides for about 5 minutes each until they develop a beautiful golden crust, then remove and set aside.
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Add Flavorful Sauce: Cancel the sauté function and pour in the prepared barbecue sauce, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Return the browned pork to ensure it absorbs all the goodness.
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Cook to Perfection: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to the meat/stew setting for 90 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes or a quick release if you’re in a hurry.
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Shred the Pork: Carefully transfer the pork to a bowl. Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode and let the sauce simmer to thicken while you shred the pork to your desired texture.
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Mix and Serve: Combine the shredded pork with the thickened sauce in the pot. Serve it in soft tortillas, on buns, or over rice, and watch your loved ones savor every bite!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork?
Creating an unforgettable meal means thinking beyond just the main dish to complement those delectable, tender strands of pulled pork.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of the pork, balancing the meal beautifully. It’s the perfect thing to scoop up in a pulled pork sandwich.
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Cornbread: Soft and warm, cornbread serves as a delightful side that soaks up the juicy barbecue sauce, making every bite satisfying. Pairing this with honey butter takes it to the next level!
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Baked Beans: The smoky sweetness of baked beans pairs effortlessly with BBQ pulled pork, enhancing the overall barbecue experience and adding depth to your plate.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred, seasonal vegetables not only add color and vibrancy to your spread but also offer a healthy, flavorful contrast to the meat. Think zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob!
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Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy, comforting classic is a crowd favorite and provides a rich, cheesy complement to the savory pulled pork. Rich and satisfying!
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Pickles or Dill Chips: The sharp, tangy flavor of pickles cuts through the richness of the pork, providing a delightful crunch and a burst of brightness to your meal.
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Sweet Tea: Serving your BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork alongside chilled sweet tea creates a perfect Southern vibe, enhancing the overall experience with its soothing, sugary taste.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies. Their gooey goodness offers a nostalgic touch that everyone will adore, making your gathering memorable.
Expert Tips for BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork
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Choose the Right Cut: Select a boneless pork shoulder for the best BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork; it shreds easily and remains juicy.
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Avoid Overcrowding: When browning the pork, make sure not to overcrowd the pot to ensure even cooking. Brown in batches if necessary.
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Natural Pressure Release: Whenever possible, allow natural pressure release for extra tenderness; it makes a noticeable difference in texture.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste the barbecue sauce before cooking; modify the brown sugar to reach your preferred level of sweetness for a perfect marinade.
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Thickening the Sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, simmer the leftover sauce in sauté mode after shredding the pork for a richer flavor.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair your BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork with coleslaw or cornbread to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Storage Tips for BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork
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Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures the flavors remain intact while keeping the pork moist.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the pulled pork in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to enjoy this delicious dish whenever cravings strike!
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the pulled pork on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of barbecue sauce to keep it juicy and flavorful.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork in advance for parties or busy weeknights—just store it properly and enjoy the convenience!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can season the pork shoulder with the dry rub and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. Additionally, you can prepare the barbecue sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply brown the pork in the Instant Pot, add the prepped sauce, and set it to the meat/stew setting. This will keep the dish just as delicious and flavorful while providing you with a satisfying meal with minimal effort!
BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork Variations
Feel free to transform this dish with delightful tweaks that spark your culinary creativity!
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Sweet & Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dry rub for a kick of heat that complements the barbecue sauce’s sweetness.
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Teriyaki Twist: Replace the barbecue sauce with teriyaki sauce for a unique fusion flavor that combines sweet and savory notes.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze in fresh lime or lemon juice before serving to add a refreshing brightness that uplifts the rich flavors.
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Smoky Flair: Incorporate liquid smoke into your sauce for an added depth of flavor that gives you that perfect backyard BBQ taste.
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme while cooking for a fragrant twist that brings an aromatic quality to the pulled pork.
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Apple Cider Brandy: Enhance the barbecue sauce with a splash of apple cider brandy for a rich, tangy flavor—perfect for special occasions!
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Spicy Pickle Relish: Serve with spicy pickle relish on top for a crunchy bite and a tangy twist that balances the richness of the pork.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute pork with jackfruit or mushrooms; both options absorb flavors beautifully and provide a satisfying, meaty texture.
BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork Recipe FAQs
What type of pork should I use for the BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork?
For this recipe, I recommend using a boneless pork shoulder. This cut is perfect for shredding and remains tender and juicy after cooking. If you choose a bone-in cut, be prepared for a little extra work when it comes to shredding!
How should I store leftover BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork?
To keep your leftover BBQ pulled pork fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you need to store it longer, you can freeze it in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Always remember to let it cool down before sealing to maintain its quality.
Can I freeze BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork?
Absolutely! For best results, let the pulled pork cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When properly sealed, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave with a little added barbecue sauce for moisture.
What if my pulled pork isn’t shredding well after cooking?
If your pulled pork isn’t shredding as expected, it could be due to insufficient cooking time or using a cut that’s too lean. Make sure to cut the pork into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking. If needed, return the pork to the Instant Pot with a splash of broth or barbecue sauce and cook on the meat/stew setting for an additional 10-15 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork is generally safe for many diets, but be mindful of allergies, especially to pork or certain spices in the dry rub. Additionally, for gluten-free diets, ensure your barbecue sauce is gluten-free, as many store-bought brands may contain gluten. If serving to pets, note that garlic and onions in the dry rub can be harmful to them, so it’s best to keep the pulled pork just for the humans!
How can I adjust the flavor if I want a spicier BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork?
If you prefer a spicy kick in your BBQ pulled pork, consider adding more chili powder or incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper into your dry rub. You could also drizzle some hot sauce into the barbecue sauce mixture or serve with spicy condiments on the side. Adjust to your liking and enjoy the kick!
BBQ Instant Pot Pulled Pork: Effortless Flavor in 90 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the dry rub ingredients in a small bowl.
- Prepare the barbecue sauce by whisking together all ingredients in a medium bowl.
- Generously coat the pork shoulder pieces with the dry rub.
- Set Instant Pot to sauté mode, heat olive oil, and brown the pork pieces on all sides for about 5 minutes each.
- Pour in the barbecue sauce, scraping up bits stuck to the bottom, then return the browned pork.
- Close the lid, set to meat/stew mode for 90 minutes, and allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes.
- Transfer the pork to a bowl and let the sauce simmer while shredding the pork.
- Combine shredded pork with thickened sauce and serve.