Nothing beats the smoky tender goodness of BBQ pulled pork, and we’ve cracked the code to make it incredibly easy with your Instant Pot. This pressure cooker method transforms a tough pork shoulder into melt-in-your-mouth perfection in just a fraction of the traditional cooking time.
We’re obsessed with this recipe because it delivers restaurant-quality results without the hassle of monitoring a smoker for hours. The Instant Pot locks in all those rich flavors while breaking down the meat fibers to create that signature pull-apart texture we all crave.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or craving comfort food on a weeknight, this BBQ pulled pork will become your go-to recipe. The best part? You’ll have succulent pulled pork ready in under two hours, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or enjoying straight from the bowl.
Equipment Needed
Creating perfect BBQ pulled pork requires the right tools to achieve tender, flavorful results. We recommend having an Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker as your primary cooking vessel. A 6-quart or 8-quart model provides ample space for a 3 to 4-pound pork shoulder.
Large tongs become essential for handling the hot pork shoulder safely when transferring it from the pot. We prefer silicone-tipped tongs that won’t scratch your Instant Pot’s inner coating. A meat thermometer helps verify the internal temperature reaches 195°F for optimal shredding consistency.
Two mixing bowls serve different purposes during preparation. One bowl holds the dry spice rub while another catches the shredded meat. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate seasoning ratios for consistent flavor profiles.
A cutting board provides a stable surface for initial pork trimming and final shredding. Choose one large enough to accommodate the entire pork shoulder comfortably. Sharp kitchen shears or meat claws make shredding easier than using standard forks.
Aluminum foil proves useful for wrapping the cooked pork if you need to keep it warm before serving. We also recommend having paper towels nearby for cleanup and patting the pork shoulder dry before seasoning.
| Equipment | Size/Type | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot | 6-8 quart | Primary cooking vessel |
| Tongs | Silicone-tipped | Safe meat handling |
| Meat thermometer | Digital preferred | Temperature verification |
| Mixing bowls | 2 medium bowls | Spice rub and shredded meat |
| Cutting board | Large size | Prep and shredding surface |
Having these tools ready before starting ensures smooth preparation and cooking without interruptions.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected each ingredient to maximize flavor and ensure tender results. These components work together to create authentic BBQ pulled pork that rivals any smokehouse.
For the Pork
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 3-4 inch chunks
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
- 4 to 6 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (divided)
- Worcestershire sauce (optional for smoky flavor)
- Liquid smoke (optional for authentic BBQ taste)
For the BBQ Sauce
- 1 (18-ounce) bottle BBQ sauce (such as Stubb’s or your favorite brand)
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- Additional garlic powder to taste
- Additional onion powder to taste
Instructions
We’ll guide you through each step to create perfectly tender BBQ pulled pork using your Instant Pot. This systematic approach ensures restaurant-quality results every time.
Prep the Pork
We start by selecting a 4-pound pork shoulder or pork roast for optimal cooking results. Trim any excess fat from the surface while leaving some marbling for flavor and moisture. Cut the pork into 4 equal pieces or 3-inch chunks to ensure even cooking throughout. Place the prepared pork pieces on your cutting board and pat them dry with paper towels to help the seasoning adhere better.
Season and Sear
We combine brown sugar, kosher salt, paprika, chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, ground mustard, cayenne, cumin, and black pepper in a mixing bowl to create our signature spice rub. Massage the spice mixture evenly over all surfaces of the pork pieces, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor penetration.
Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add one tablespoon of oil once heated. Brown the seasoned pork pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, allowing each surface to develop a rich golden-brown crust. This searing step locks in flavors and creates the foundation for our BBQ pulled pork’s complex taste profile.
Pressure Cook
We remove the browned pork and deglaze the pot by adding chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Return the seared pork to the pot and add your favorite BBQ sauce mixed with additional vinegar, brown sugar, and seasonings.
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing position. Pressure cook on high for 40 minutes for 3-inch chunks or 60 minutes for larger pieces. Allow natural pressure release for 10-20 minutes to ensure maximum tenderness before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Shred the Pork
We carefully transfer the cooked pork to a large mixing bowl using silicone-tipped tongs. The meat should be fork-tender and easily fall apart at this stage. Shred the pork using two forks, pulling in opposite directions to create those signature pulled pork strands. Reserve the cooking liquid from the Instant Pot for our next step.
Make the BBQ Sauce
We return the cooking liquid to the Instant Pot and set it to sauté mode. Create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the hot cooking liquid and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. This concentrated sauce will coat the shredded pork beautifully and add incredible depth of flavor.
Combine and Finish
We pour the thickened BBQ sauce over the shredded pork and mix thoroughly until every strand is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or apple cider vinegar as needed. The pulled pork is now ready to serve on hamburger buns with extra BBQ sauce and optional coleslaw for added crunch and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Our tender, flavorful BBQ pulled pork transforms into countless delicious meals that satisfy every craving. We recommend serving the pulled pork hot on hamburger buns with a generous spread of mayo and an extra drizzle of our homemade BBQ sauce for the classic sandwich experience.
Classic Sandwich Style
The traditional approach involves piling the shredded pork high on soft hamburger buns. We love adding a creamy coleslaw topping that provides the perfect crunch and flavor contrast against the rich, smoky meat. This combination creates a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Creative Serving Options
Beyond sandwiches, our BBQ pulled pork works beautifully as a versatile protein for year-round meals. We often use it as a filling for soft tacos, adding fresh cilantro and lime for a Mexican-inspired twist. Wraps and grain bowls also benefit from this flavorful addition, while salads gain substance and smoky depth when topped with warm pulled pork.
Perfect Side Pairings
We pair our pulled pork with classic BBQ sides that complement the bold flavors. Baked beans provide a sweet and savory balance, while creamy mac and cheese offers comforting richness. Fresh corn on the cob adds a bright, seasonal element that rounds out the meal perfectly.
| Serving Style | Best Accompaniments | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sandwiches | Coleslaw, pickles, extra BBQ sauce | 5 minutes |
| Tacos | Cilantro, lime, avocado | 3 minutes |
| Salads | Mixed greens, tomatoes, cheese | 7 minutes |
| Bowls | Rice, beans, vegetables | 10 minutes |
The beauty of this Instant Pot method lies in creating a versatile protein that works without heating the oven or making a mess. Our pulled pork stays moist and flavorful, making it ideal for meal prep and entertaining guests with minimal effort.
Storage and Reheating
Our delicious BBQ pulled pork keeps exceptionally well with proper storage techniques. Following these guidelines ensures we can enjoy leftovers for days or freeze portions for future meals.
Refrigerator Storage
We recommend allowing the pulled pork to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Place the cooled meat in an airtight container or zip-lock bag within two hours after cooking to maintain food safety. Our pulled pork stays fresh and flavorful for 3 to 4 days when properly refrigerated.
The key to maintaining quality involves sealing the container tightly to prevent air exposure. We suggest portioning the meat into meal-sized containers for convenient reheating later.
Freezer Storage
For longer storage we can freeze our BBQ pulled pork for up to 6 months. Cool the meat completely before transferring it to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label each container with the date to track storage time effectively.
We find that portioning the pulled pork into individual or family-sized servings makes thawing more convenient. Thaw frozen pulled pork overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating Instructions
Microwave Method
We place the pulled pork in a microwave-safe dish and sprinkle a little water or broth on top to retain moisture. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to trap steam during heating. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes stirring halfway through for even heating. Continue heating in 30-second increments until the meat reaches the desired temperature throughout.
Stovetop Method
Our preferred stovetop method involves warming the pulled pork in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and maintain moisture. Stir occasionally until the meat heats through completely. This method allows us to control the temperature more precisely and prevents overcooking.
Tips for Perfect Results
We’ve discovered that cutting your pork into even-sized pieces around 2 to 4 inches creates uniform cooking and optimal tenderness throughout the meat. This technique ensures every bite delivers the same melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes pulled pork irresistible.
Brown the meat first using your Instant Pot’s sauté function to develop deeper flavors through caramelization. We recommend heating oil in the pot and searing each piece until golden brown on multiple sides. This crucial step builds a foundation of rich, complex flavors that pressure cooking alone cannot achieve.
Balance your flavor profile by combining BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar in your cooking liquid. We’ve found this trio creates the perfect harmony of tangy, sweet, and smoky notes that penetrate the meat during pressure cooking.
Add sufficient liquid to maintain moisture and create the steam necessary for proper pressure cooking. We suggest using chicken stock, water, or even soda like Coca Cola or Dr. Pepper to enhance flavor while providing the required liquid base.
Cook for 45 to 60 minutes under high pressure depending on your pork size. We’ve tested various cooking times and found frozen pork requires an additional 40 minutes to achieve the same tenderness as fresh meat.
Allow a 10-minute natural pressure release before quick releasing the remaining pressure. We consistently achieve juicier results when we let the pressure decrease naturally during this initial period rather than immediately releasing all steam.
Test for tenderness by attempting to shred a piece with forks. We recommend sealing and cooking longer if the pork resists shredding easily, as tough meat simply needs more time under pressure.
Enhance your sandwiches by spreading mayo on buns and topping the pulled pork with extra BBQ sauce and crunchy coleslaw. We’ve discovered this combination provides textural contrast that elevates the entire eating experience.
Consider versatile serving options beyond traditional sandwiches. We regularly use our pulled pork in tacos, wraps, grain bowls, and salads to create varied meals throughout the week while maximizing our cooking efforts.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how simple it is to create amazing BBQ pulled pork using your Instant Pot. This method delivers tender juicy results in just a fraction of the time traditional smoking would take.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and convenience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead you’ll have delicious protein ready to go. The hands-off cooking approach means you can focus on other tasks while your Instant Pot does the heavy lifting.
With proper storage techniques and creative serving ideas you’ll get maximum value from every batch. Your family and friends will be impressed by the restaurant-quality flavors you’ve achieved right in your own kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make pulled pork in an Instant Pot?
Instant Pot pulled pork can be ready in under two hours, which is significantly faster than traditional smoking methods that can take 8-12 hours. The actual pressure cooking time varies based on the size of your pork shoulder, but the entire process from prep to serving is much more efficient than conventional BBQ methods.
What size Instant Pot do I need for pulled pork?
A 6-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot is recommended for making pulled pork. These sizes can comfortably accommodate a 3-4 pound pork shoulder, which is the ideal size for most families. The larger capacity also allows room for proper steam circulation during pressure cooking.
What cut of pork is best for pulled pork?
Pork shoulder or pork butt (also called Boston butt) are the best cuts for pulled pork. These cuts contain enough fat and connective tissue that break down during cooking, resulting in tender, juicy meat that shreds easily. A 3-4 pound piece works perfectly for most Instant Pot recipes.
Do I need to brown the pork before pressure cooking?
While not absolutely necessary, browning the pork first is highly recommended. Searing the meat in the Instant Pot using the sauté function develops deeper flavors and creates a better color. This extra step takes just a few minutes but significantly enhances the final taste.
How do I know when the pulled pork is done?
The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F and shreds easily with a fork. If the meat doesn’t shred easily, continue pressure cooking for additional 15-20 minute intervals. Properly cooked pulled pork should fall apart with minimal effort.
Can I make pulled pork ahead of time?
Yes, pulled pork is excellent for meal prep. After cooking, cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 6 months. The flavors often improve after resting overnight.
What’s the best way to reheat pulled pork?
Reheat pulled pork in the microwave with a splash of liquid, or on the stovetop over low heat with a little broth or BBQ sauce. Add moisture to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What should I serve with pulled pork?
Classic sides include coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, and corn on the cob. Pulled pork also works great in tacos, wraps, grain bowls, or salads. The versatile protein pairs well with both traditional BBQ sides and creative modern applications.
How much liquid do I need in the Instant Pot?
Add at least 1 cup of liquid (chicken broth, apple juice, or water) to create proper steam for pressure cooking. The liquid prevents burning and helps create the moist environment needed for tender results. Don’t submerge the pork completely.
Can I use frozen pork shoulder in the Instant Pot?
While possible, it’s best to thaw the pork shoulder completely before cooking for even results. Frozen meat will require additional cooking time and may not cook uniformly. If using frozen pork, add 50% more cooking time and ensure proper thawing first.
