Name: Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp paprika; 1 tbsp light brown sugar; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp freshly-ground black pepper; 1 tsp ground mustard; 1 tsp kosher salt; 4 lb boneless pork roast; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups BBQ sauce; 1 cup chicken stock

Transform your dinner table with a succulent and flavorful bbq pulled pork made effortlessly in an instant pot. This recipe promises tender, juicy pork infused with a perfect blend of spices and bbq sauce.

Photos of Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe

If you don't already have smoked paprika or ground mustard in your pantry, you may need to pick these up from the supermarket. These spices are essential for achieving the robust and smoky flavor of the dish.

Ingredients For Instant Pot Bbq Pulled Pork Recipe

Paprika: Adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the pork.

Light brown sugar: Provides a hint of sweetness and helps in caramelizing.

Garlic powder: Infuses a robust garlic flavor throughout.

Freshly-ground black pepper: Adds a sharp and earthy heat.

Ground mustard: Contributes a tangy and slightly spicy undertone.

Kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.

Boneless pork roast: The main protein, becomes tender and juicy when cooked.

Olive oil: Used for browning the pork, adding a rich flavor.

Bbq sauce: Coats the pork with a tangy, sweet, and smoky glaze.

Chicken stock: Keeps the pork moist and adds depth to the sauce.

One reader, Christina Hodge says:

This Instant Pot BBQ pulled pork recipe is a game-changer! The meat is incredibly tender and flavorful, and the process is so easy. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Highly recommend!

Christina Hodge

Techniques for Making Perfect Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

How to whisk together spices: Combine the spices in a bowl and mix them thoroughly until evenly distributed. How to brown pork: Heat oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting, then add pork pieces in a single layer and cook until all sides are browned. How to set the Instant Pot to manual: Twist on the lid, turn the vent to sealing, and set the pressure cooker to manual mode for the specified time. How to naturally release pressure: Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure on its own without turning the vent. How to shred pork: Use two forks to pull the pork apart into shreds. How to skim fat from sauce: Use a spoon or a fat separator to remove excess fat from the top of the sauce.

How To Make Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

Prepare a filling and hearty instant pot bbq for your weeknight dinner with this simple and easy recipe that only needs a few simple ingredients to make.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbsppaprikasmoked
1tbsplight brown sugar
2tspgarlic powder
1tspfreshly-ground black pepper
1tspground mustard
1tspkosher salt
4lbboneless pork roastcut into 2-inch cubes
1tbspolive oil
2cupsBBQ saucehomemade or store-bought, divided
1cupchicken stockor water

Instructions

Whisk together the smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, mustard, and salt in a large bowl until evenly combined.
Add the pork, then gently toss with the spice blend until it is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight.
Press “Sauté” on the Instant Pot. Add the oil then once it is hot, add a single layer of the pork pieces. Brown the pork on all sides, then transfer the pork to a clean plate and set aside. Repeat with the remaining pieces of pork.
Once all of the pork has been browned, turn the Instant Pot off. Then add the browned pork, chicken stock, and 1 cup of the BBQ sauce to the Instant Pot, and give the mixture a quick toss to combine everything.
Twist on the lid, turn the vent to “Sealing”, then set the pressure cooker to “Manual” for 60 minutes. Once the time is up, let the vent naturally release.
Carefully open the lid. Transfer the pork to a separate clean plate with a slotted spoon, leaving the juices behind.
Press the “Sauté” button once more, and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes or until it has thickened and reduced by more than half. Meanwhile, shred the pork with two forks.
Once the sauce has reduced a bit, skim some of the fat off of the top with a spoon or use a fat separator to separate and discard it.
Add the shredded pork back into the sauce and give everything a good toss so that it can soak up those tasty juices.
Serve immediately and top with an extra spoonful or two of the remaining BBQ sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 359.35kcal
Fat: 14.48g
Saturated Fat: 2.69g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.85g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.30g
Carbohydrates: 22.07g
Fiber: 0.95g
Sugar: 17.04g
Protein: 33.48g
Cholesterol: 97.37mg
Sodium: 590.58mg
Calcium: 32.07mg
Potassium: 710.33mg
Iron: 1.47mg
Vitamin A: 36.45µg
Vitamin C: 0.35mg

Pro Tip for Making Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

When browning the pork in the Instant Pot, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. Browning in batches ensures that each piece gets a nice sear, which adds depth of flavor to the final dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

Prepare the spice rub in advance: Mix the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, mustard, and salt ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Use pre-cut pork: Buy pre-cut boneless pork roast to skip the cutting step and save time.

Quick marination: If short on time, marinate the pork for just 30 minutes instead of overnight.

Instant pot sauté shortcut: Brown all the pork pieces at once if your instant pot is large enough, rather than in batches.

Use store-bought bbq sauce: Opt for a high-quality bbq sauce to save time on making your own.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe

paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor that complements the BBQ taste.
light brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Provides sweetness and a slight floral note.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Offers a different but complementary savory flavor.
freshly-ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: Adds a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.
ground mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Provides a similar level of saltiness with a slightly different mineral content.
boneless pork roast - Substitute with boneless chicken thighs: Offers a similar texture and absorbs flavors well.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
bbq sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of Asian flair.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Provides a similar depth of flavor and is suitable for those avoiding meat products.

Best Ways to Serve BBQ Pulled Pork

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the pulled pork in a delicate, refined portion to emphasize quality over quantity.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with microgreens and a drizzle of bbq sauce for a visually appealing presentation.
Add texture contrast: Include a small side of crispy coleslaw to provide a refreshing crunch that complements the tender pork.
Utilize elegant plating: Arrange the shredded pork in a neat stack or quenelle shape to add sophistication to the dish.
Incorporate color: Add a few pickled red onions or radishes to the plate for a pop of vibrant color that contrasts with the rich bbq sauce.
Highlight the sauce: Serve the extra bbq sauce in a small, elegant ramekin on the side to allow diners to control the intensity of the flavor.
Use high-quality serving ware: Plate the dish on a pristine, white porcelain plate to make the colors and textures of the pulled pork and garnishes stand out.
Add a touch of luxury: Finish the dish with a light sprinkle of smoked sea salt or a few drops of truffle oil to elevate the flavor profile.
Create a balanced composition: Ensure that each element on the plate is proportionate and harmoniously arranged to create a visually balanced and appealing presentation.
Pay attention to detail: Wipe the edges of the plate clean and ensure that every component is placed with precision to reflect the meticulous standards of a 3-Michelin-star presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Instant Pot: A multi-functional electric pressure cooker used to cook the pork quickly and efficiently.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the spices and coat the pork evenly.
Whisk: Helps in mixing the spices thoroughly to ensure an even blend.
Tongs: Useful for handling the pork pieces, especially when browning them.
Plate: Needed to transfer the browned pork and later the cooked pork.
Slotted spoon: Used to transfer the pork out of the Instant Pot while leaving the juices behind.
Forks: Essential for shredding the cooked pork.
Fat separator: Helps in removing excess fat from the sauce to make it leaner.
Spoon: Useful for skimming fat off the top of the sauce.
Measuring spoons: Needed to measure out the spices accurately.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the chicken stock and BBQ sauce.

Storing and Freezing Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

Once the pulled pork has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or a large ziplock bag. Press out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
If using a container, make sure to leave about an inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification later on.
Store the pulled pork in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat refrigerated pulled pork, simply microwave it in a covered dish or warm it up in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.
If reheating frozen pulled pork, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. Then, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
For best results, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pulled pork before reheating to help keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.
You can also portion the pulled pork into smaller containers or bags before freezing for quick and easy meals later on. Simply thaw and reheat the desired amount as needed.

Interesting Facts About BBQ Pulled Pork

A fun fact about this Instant Pot BBQ pulled pork recipe is that the pressure cooking method not only speeds up the cooking process but also helps to tenderize the pork, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful in a fraction of the time compared to traditional slow-cooking methods.

Is Making Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Cost-Effective?

This instant pot bbq pulled pork recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, boneless pork roast, is relatively affordable, and the spices are common pantry staples. The use of an instant pot ensures efficient cooking, saving both time and energy. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD, making it a budget-friendly option for a delicious and hearty meal.

Is Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Healthy or Unhealthy?

This instant pot BBQ pulled pork recipe is a delicious and convenient way to prepare a classic comfort food. However, from a nutritional standpoint, it does have some aspects that could be improved to make it a healthier option:

The recipe includes a significant amount of added sugar from the brown sugar and BBQ sauce, which can contribute to excess calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed in large quantities.
The pork roast, while a good source of protein, is also high in saturated fat, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems if consumed in excess.
The recipe does not include any vegetables or other sources of fiber, which are important for maintaining a balanced diet and promoting digestive health.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the spice blend or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Choose a low-sugar or sugar-free BBQ sauce to minimize added sugars.
Trim any visible fat from the pork roast before cooking to reduce the overall fat content.
Incorporate some vegetables into the dish, such as sautéed onions, bell peppers, or carrots, to add fiber and nutrients.
Serve the pulled pork with a side of coleslaw or a green salad to balance out the meal with some fresh, raw vegetables.
Use a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin, to reduce the amount of saturated fat in the dish.
Limit portion sizes and enjoy the pulled pork as part of a balanced meal that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods.

Editor's Opinion on This Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe

This recipe for Instant Pot BBQ pulled pork is a fantastic blend of flavors and convenience. The spice rub adds depth, while the pressure cooking ensures tender, juicy meat. Browning the pork enhances the overall taste, and reducing the sauce intensifies its richness. The use of chicken stock and BBQ sauce creates a well-balanced, savory base. Allowing the pork to marinate and naturally releasing the pressure are key steps for optimal flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing weekend gathering.

Enhance Your Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Imagine the smoky, charred sweetness of grilled corn on the cob paired with the rich, tangy flavors of bbq pulled pork. The kernels burst with juicy goodness, offering a delightful contrast to the tender, saucy meat. A sprinkle of cotija cheese and a dash of lime juice elevate this side to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy creamy coleslaw can be the perfect companion to your pulled pork. The crisp cabbage and carrots provide a satisfying crunch, while the creamy dressing adds a tangy, slightly sweet note that complements the savory pork. This side dish not only adds texture but also a burst of color to your plate.

Baked Mac and Cheese: Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with baked mac and cheese. The gooey, cheesy pasta offers a rich, creamy contrast to the smoky, flavorful pulled pork. A golden, crispy topping adds an extra layer of texture, making each bite a delightful experience. This side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, sweet potato fries bring a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory, tangy bbq pulled pork. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is enhanced by a light dusting of sea salt, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Garlic Butter Green Beans: For a lighter, yet equally delicious side, consider garlic butter green beans. The vibrant green beans are sautéed to perfection with garlic and butter, offering a fresh, slightly garlicky flavor that complements the rich, smoky pulled pork. This side dish adds a touch of elegance and a pop of color to your meal.

Similar Recipes to Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken: Dive into the sweet and savory world of honey garlic chicken. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for those who love tender, juicy chicken with a sticky, flavorful glaze. Serve it over a bed of rice or alongside some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Smoky Chipotle Beef Tacos: Transform your taco night with these smoky chipotle beef tacos. The beef is slow-cooked to perfection, infused with the rich flavors of chipotle peppers and spices. Top with fresh avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness.

Sticky Asian Pork Ribs: These sticky Asian pork ribs are a finger-licking delight. Marinated in a blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then slow-cooked until they fall off the bone. Finish them off with a quick broil to caramelize the sauce, and serve with a side of pickled vegetables.

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches: For a lighter twist on the classic pulled pork, try these pulled chicken sandwiches. The chicken is cooked until tender and then shredded, mixed with a tangy bbq sauce. Pile it high on a bun and top with crunchy coleslaw for the ultimate sandwich experience.

Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham: Indulge in the rich flavors of maple bourbon glazed ham. This ham is baked to perfection, with a sweet and smoky glaze made from maple syrup and bourbon. Perfect for a holiday feast or a special family dinner.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. These bite-sized treats are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The mushrooms become tender and juicy, while the filling turns golden and bubbly. Serve these on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and a burst of freshness.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Toasted slices of baguette are topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic, all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. The combination of crunchy bread and juicy, flavorful toppings makes this a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate cake that oozes with gooey, warm chocolate when you cut into it. This decadent treat pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an added twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance the flavors. The contrast between the warm, melty chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream is simply irresistible.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake: Delight your taste buds with a creamy cheesecake infused with the zesty flavor of lemon and studded with juicy blueberries. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, while a blueberry compote drizzled on top provides a burst of fruity goodness. This dessert is perfect for a refreshing end to a hearty meal, offering a balance of tangy and sweet flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why trust this Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe:

This instant pot bbq pulled pork recipe is a must-try for any home cook. The blend of paprika, brown sugar, and garlic powder creates a flavorful rub that infuses the pork with a rich taste. Using the instant pot ensures the pork is tender and juicy in just 60 minutes. The final touch of simmering the bbq sauce to thicken it adds a deliciously sticky coating. This recipe is straightforward, reliable, and guarantees mouth-watering results every time.

Share your thoughts on this Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

Absolutely! While a boneless pork roast is great, you can also use pork shoulder or pork butt. Just make sure it's a cut that's good for slow cooking and shredding.

How long should I marinate the pork?

Ideally, you should marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit overnight in the fridge will really enhance the flavors.

Can I skip the browning step?

I wouldn't recommend it. Browning the pork adds a lot of flavor and helps to seal in the juices. It might take a bit of extra time, but it's worth it.

What if I don't have chicken stock?

No worries! You can use vegetable stock, beef stock, or even water in a pinch. The flavor might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy it again.