Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches: 5 Steps to Perfection

Why Make Instant Pot Pulled Pork?

Quick and easy weeknight meal.

The Instant Pot revolutionizes how we approach classic comfort foods like pulled pork. What once required hours of slow cooking or baking can now be accomplished in a fraction of the time, making it an ideal solution for a busy weeknight dinner. This `easy Instant Pot pork` recipe dramatically cuts down active cooking time, allowing you to prepare a flavorful, satisfying meal without being tied to the kitchen. The pressure cooking method tenderizes the meat swiftly, delivering fall-apart results that taste like they simmered all day. It’s truly a game-changer for those seeking delicious, homemade meals without the extensive time commitment, transforming complex recipes into simple, accessible options for any day of the week.

Tender, juicy results always.

One of the most compelling reasons to use your Instant Pot for pulled pork is the consistently `tender pulled pork` it produces. The high-pressure environment works magic on tough cuts like pork shoulder, breaking down connective tissues rapidly and thoroughly. This process ensures that every fiber of the meat becomes incredibly soft and juicy, practically melting in your mouth. Unlike conventional methods where results can sometimes be inconsistent, the Instant Pot provides a controlled cooking environment that locks in moisture and evenly cooks the meat. This guarantees perfectly tender, succulent pork every single time, making it a reliable `pressure cooker recipe` for consistently delicious outcomes.

Gather Your Pulled Pork Ingredients

Essential sauces and spices.

Creating spectacular Instant Pot Pulled Pork starts with selecting the right ingredients. For the star of the dish, a 3-4 pound boneless pork shoulder (also known as Boston butt) is ideal due to its rich marbling, which contributes to incredible flavor and tenderness. Beyond the pork, a well-balanced blend of spices and sauces is crucial. You’ll typically need a good quality chicken or vegetable broth to create the cooking liquid, along with aromatics like chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. For the dry rub, consider a mixture of brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. These spices create a robust flavor base that permeates the `pork shoulder` during cooking. Finally, a bottle of your favorite `barbecue sauce` is indispensable for finishing the dish, providing that signature tangy and sweet coating. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different barbecue sauce varieties to personalize your meal. For more `main course` inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of main course recipes.

Instant Pot Setup for Recipe

Prepare cooker for use.

Before you begin cooking your delicious pulled pork, ensuring your Instant Pot is properly set up is key to a smooth and safe cooking experience. First, always make sure the inner pot is clean and securely placed within the cooker base. Check that the sealing ring is correctly fitted into the lid – a misplaced ring is the most common cause of pressure not building. Familiarize yourself with your Instant Pot’s control panel, specifically the “Sauté,” “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”), and “Keep Warm” functions, as well as the pressure release valve. While not always strictly necessary for pulled pork, some recipes might call for a trivet at the bottom of the pot; however, for this recipe, the pork can sit directly on the bottom. Having everything in its place allows for a seamless transition from preparation to pressure cooking, guaranteeing a successful `pressure cooker recipe` from start to finish.

Step-by-Step Pork Preparation

Seasoning the pork shoulder.

Properly seasoning your `pork shoulder` is the first crucial step in developing a deep, rich flavor profile for your Instant Pot Pulled Pork. Begin by patting the pork shoulder completely dry with paper towels; this helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a superior sear. In a small bowl, mix your dry rub ingredients: brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Generously rub this mixture all over the pork, ensuring every surface is coated. Don’t be shy – a good amount of seasoning will create a fantastic crust and infuse the meat with flavor. Take your time to really massage the spices into the meat, ensuring an even distribution for the best results.

Browning for rich flavor.

Browning the pork before pressure cooking is a non-negotiable step for achieving a truly rich and complex flavor. This process, often referred to as the Maillard reaction, creates savory notes and a beautiful caramelized crust that significantly enhances the final dish. To do this, select the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot and add a tablespoon or two of a high-heat cooking oil, like avocado or canola. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned pork shoulder into the pot. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until a deep golden-brown crust forms. You might need to do this in batches if your pork shoulder is large. After browning, remove the pork and deglaze the pot by pouring in a splash of broth and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor and will contribute to the sauce. Learn more about the science behind browning meat by exploring the Maillard reaction on Wikipedia.

Adding broth and onions.

Once the pork is beautifully browned and the pot is deglazed, it’s time to add the remaining liquids and aromatics that will create the flavorful braising liquid. Return the browned pork shoulder to the Instant Pot. Add about 1 to 1.5 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring there’s enough liquid to reach the bottom of the pot but not so much that it completely submerges the pork. Next, scatter sliced yellow onions and minced garlic around and on top of the pork. These ingredients will infuse the cooking liquid with aromatic depth, complementing the spices on the pork. Avoid stirring too much at this stage; just ensure the liquid covers the bottom, and any remaining browned bits are scraped up. This careful layering sets the stage for a truly succulent and `tender pulled pork` experience.

Cooking Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Setting the cooking time.

The Instant Pot makes quick work of transforming a tough cut into `tender pulled pork`. Once your pork, broth, and aromatics are in the pot, secure the lid and ensure the sealing valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) setting and set the cooking time to 60-90 minutes at high pressure for a 3-4 pound pork shoulder. A good rule of thumb is approximately 15-20 minutes per pound for boneless pork shoulder. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking countdown begins. This specific cooking duration is crucial for breaking down the tough fibers and collagen, resulting in meat that effortlessly shreds.

Pressure release safely.

Once the cooking cycle is complete, the method of pressure release is vital for the final texture of your pulled pork. For this recipe, a natural pressure release (NPR) is recommended for at least 10-15 minutes, or even longer, up to 20 minutes. During NPR, the Instant Pot slowly releases pressure on its own, which allows the meat fibers to relax and reabsorb juices, leading to more moist and tender results. After the NPR period, carefully move the sealing valve to the “Venting” position for a quick release (QR) of any remaining pressure. Always use an oven mitt or a long-handled spoon to avoid direct contact with the steam. Once the float valve drops, indicating all pressure has been released, you can safely open the lid. This careful pressure release technique ensures your `easy Instant Pot pork` is perfectly cooked and ready for the next step.

Shredding Tender Pork Easily

After the Instant Pot has safely depressurized, carefully remove the lid, and you’ll be greeted with an aroma that promises an incredible meal. Using tongs, transfer the cooked `pork shoulder` to a large cutting board or a sturdy bowl. At this point, the pork should be incredibly tender, practically falling apart with minimal effort. Using two forks or specialized meat claws, begin to shred the pork, pulling it apart into desired pieces. The meat will likely be so soft that it shreds effortlessly. As you shred, you’ll notice how juicy and moist the pork remains. Discard any large pieces of fat or gristle that haven’t rendered down. Don’t worry about getting every piece perfectly uniform; the rustic nature of shredded pork is part of its charm. While the pork is still warm, it’s easiest to shred. The tender results are a hallmark of this `easy Instant Pot pork` recipe. If you enjoy simple yet satisfying dinners, you might also like our Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Mix and Sauce Your Pork

Combining with barbecue sauce.

Once your `tender pulled pork` is shredded, it’s time to bring it all together with that classic barbecue flavor. Return the shredded pork to the Instant Pot (after carefully straining the cooking liquid if desired, to remove solids and excess fat, leaving just a bit of the flavorful juice). Pour in your favorite `barbecue sauce`. The amount can vary depending on your preference for sauciness – start with about 1 to 1.5 cups for a 3-4 pound pork shoulder. Toss the pork thoroughly with the sauce, ensuring every strand is coated. You can use the “Keep Warm” setting or a low “Sauté” function for a few minutes to allow the pork to heat through and absorb the flavors of the sauce, creating a cohesive and mouthwatering dish ready for serving.

Adjusting flavor to taste.

The beauty of making your own pulled pork is the ability to customize the flavor profile exactly to your liking. After combining the pork with `barbecue sauce`, take a small taste. Is it sweet enough? Tangy enough? If you prefer a sweeter profile, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup. For more tang, a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice can work wonders. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick, while a dash of smoked paprika can deepen the smoky notes. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Continue tasting and adjusting until you achieve the perfect balance of flavors for your ideal `easy Instant Pot pork` experience. This step truly elevates the dish from good to outstanding.

Assembling Delicious Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Warm hamburger buns.

The classic way to enjoy `tender pulled pork` is piled high on a soft, warm hamburger bun. To elevate your sandwich experience, take a moment to lightly toast or warm your buns. You can do this by placing them cut-side down in a dry skillet over medium heat for a minute or two, toasting them in a toaster oven, or even quickly grilling them. A lightly toasted bun adds a pleasant texture contrast to the soft pork and prevents it from becoming soggy too quickly. You might even spread a thin layer of butter on the buns before warming for an extra touch of richness. This simple step makes a significant difference in the overall enjoyment of your `easy Instant Pot pork` sandwiches.

Serving with sides.

While `barbecue sauce` pulled pork sandwiches are a meal in themselves, pairing them with classic sides truly completes the experience. A creamy, tangy `coleslaw` is almost mandatory, offering a refreshing crunch and a textural counterpoint to the rich, tender meat. Other popular choices include baked beans, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, or a simple green salad. For a bit of zing, don’t forget a generous helping of pickles. These traditional accompaniments not only enhance the flavor profile of the meal but also provide a well-rounded and satisfying plate that makes this `weeknight meal` feel like a special occasion. Discover more about this beloved dish on Wikipedia’s Pulled Pork page.

Prep and Cook Time Details

Quick total time.

One of the standout benefits of making `easy Instant Pot pork` is the remarkable efficiency of the cooking process compared to traditional methods. While a conventional oven or slow cooker might demand 6-8 hours, your Instant Pot delivers similar results in a fraction of that time. The active preparation time, including seasoning and browning the `pork shoulder`, typically takes around 15-20 minutes. The pressure cooking itself ranges from 60-90 minutes, depending on the size of your pork, plus an additional 10-20 minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure and perform a natural release. This means you can have incredibly `tender pulled pork` ready to enjoy in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish, making it a perfectly viable and stress-free `weeknight meal` option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.

How many servings.

A typical 3-4 pound boneless pork shoulder, prepared as `easy Instant Pot pork`, yields a generous amount of `tender pulled pork`, making it perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining. Generally, this quantity will comfortably serve between 6 to 8 people, especially when served as sandwiches with additional sides like `coleslaw` or baked beans. The exact number of servings can vary slightly based on portion sizes and how it’s served—whether piled high on buns or integrated into tacos or bowls. This makes it an economical and efficient choice for feeding a crowd or ensuring you have delicious leftovers for several days, reinforcing its status as an excellent `pressure cooker recipe` for busy households.

Instant Pot Pulled Pork Variations

Overnight marinating tips.

While the Instant Pot speeds up cooking, you can deepen the flavor of your `tender pulled pork` even further by marinating the `pork shoulder` overnight. For a dry rub, simply apply your spice blend generously to the pork, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for 8-12 hours. This allows the salt and spices to penetrate the meat, enhancing its natural savory qualities. If you prefer a liquid marinade, you could combine the dry rub ingredients with a bit of apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, or even a beer, ensuring the pork is fully coated. Marinating adds another layer of complexity, making this `easy Instant Pot pork` even more extraordinary. You can also get creative with marinades, like those used in our Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese for a different flavor profile that pairs wonderfully as a side.

Side dish suggestions.

Beyond the classic sandwich, `easy Instant Pot pork` is incredibly versatile. For different serving ideas, consider making delicious pulled pork tacos with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, and avocado. It’s also fantastic piled on baked potatoes or nachos, topped with cheese and jalapeños. For a lighter approach, serve it over a bed of greens or as part of a grain bowl. As for traditional side dishes, in addition to `coleslaw`, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, or a simple corn on the cob all make excellent accompaniments. These variations and side dish suggestions ensure that your `tender pulled pork` can be enjoyed in numerous ways, preventing meal fatigue and always offering a delightful dining experience for a wonderful `weeknight meal`.

Nutrition Facts for Each Sandwich

Calorie and protein count.

Understanding the nutritional aspects of your `easy Instant Pot pork` sandwich can help you make informed dietary choices. Please note that these are estimated values and can vary significantly based on the specific cut of `pork shoulder` used, the amount of fat trimmed, and the brand of `barbecue sauce`. On average, a pulled pork sandwich (using approximately 4-6 ounces of pork on a standard bun) can provide an estimated 350-500 calories. The protein content is generally quite high, with around 25-35 grams per serving, making it a satisfying and muscle-building meal. These figures provide a general guideline for incorporating this `tender pulled pork` into your meal plan.

Fat and carbohydrate details.

Continuing with the estimated nutrition, the fat content in an Instant Pot Pulled Pork sandwich can range from 15-25 grams, largely depending on the pork’s marbling and whether excess fat is trimmed before or after cooking. The carbohydrates, primarily from the bun and the `barbecue sauce`, typically fall between 30-45 grams per sandwich. Keep in mind that many `barbecue sauce` options contain added sugars, which contribute to the carbohydrate count. Opting for a low-sugar barbecue sauce or a whole-wheat bun can slightly adjust these numbers. These details can help you balance your intake when enjoying this delicious `pressure cooker recipe` as a `weeknight meal`.

Tips for Best Pulled Pork

Adjust barbecue sauce.

Achieving the best `tender pulled pork` often comes down to personal preference, especially when it comes to the `barbecue sauce`. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of sauces—from smoky to sweet, tangy to spicy—to find your perfect match. You can even blend two sauces for a unique flavor profile. Consider stirring in a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang, a bit of hot sauce for heat, or a spoonful of brown sugar for added sweetness. Making your own sauce from scratch also gives you complete control over the ingredients and flavor. Taste as you go and adjust to ensure your `easy Instant Pot pork` is exactly how you like it. This customization is key to making this `weeknight meal` truly your own.

Serve with coleslaw.

For an authentic and highly recommended serving experience, always pair your `tender pulled pork` sandwiches with a generous helping of fresh `coleslaw`. The creamy, crunchy, and slightly tangy nature of coleslaw provides a perfect contrast to the rich, savory pork. The acidity in the coleslaw helps to cut through the richness of the meat and `barbecue sauce`, balancing the flavors beautifully. Whether it’s a classic creamy `coleslaw` or a vinaigrette-based version, its refreshing crunch adds an essential textural element that elevates the entire dish. For more cooking inspiration and visually stunning recipes, be sure to connect with us on Pinterest and Instagram!