Print

Easy Tender BBQ Pulled Pork Instant Pot Recipe

BBQ pulled pork Instant Pot recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy Instant Pot recipe for tender, juicy BBQ pulled pork with a simple spice rub and tangy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3–4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), well-marbled
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth or water
  • ½ cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Optional: dash of hot sauce
  • Optional: 1 tsp liquid smoke

Instructions

  1. Mix the dry rub: Combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  2. Prepare the pork shoulder: Pat dry and rub the spice mix all over the pork, pressing firmly. Optionally, wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor.
  3. Sear the pork (optional): Set Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode, add 1 tbsp oil, and brown pork on all sides, about 3 minutes per side.
  4. Add liquids: Pour chicken broth or water and apple cider vinegar into the Instant Pot. Place pork inside, lock lid, and set valve to sealing.
  5. Pressure cook: Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
  6. Shred and sauce: Remove pork, shred with two forks, discard large fat pieces. Mix shredded pork with BBQ sauce. Adjust seasoning as desired.
  7. Serve: Serve warm on buns, over rice, or with favorite sides.

Notes

Searing the pork before pressure cooking adds flavor and texture but is optional. Use at least 1 cup of liquid to build pressure. Let pressure release naturally for 15 minutes to keep pork tender. Add cooking liquid back to shredded pork if dry. Adjust BBQ sauce and vinegar to taste after shredding.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ pulled pork, Instant Pot, pressure cooker, easy BBQ recipe, pulled pork recipe, quick dinner, tender pork

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/easy-tender-bbq-pulled-pork-instant-pot-recipe-5-steps-for-perfect-flavor/