Irresistible Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe

There’s something about the smell of BBQ that makes your taste buds dance like they just won the lottery. Imagine thick, juicy pieces of pork, slow-cooked until they’re tender enough to melt in your mouth, smothered in a sweet and tangy sauce that has just the right kick. great for BBQ sandwiches That aroma wafting through your home will have your neighbors peeking through the windows, wondering what kind of culinary magic is happening inside. Well, here’s a secret: it’s not magic; it’s Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork.

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a backyard barbecue with friends. I remember one summer afternoon when I decided to host a last-minute get-together. With no time to spare, I whipped out my trusty Instant Pot and let it work its wonders while I caught up with friends over a cold drink. The result? A platter of pulled pork that had everyone begging for seconds—and maybe thirds. Get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious flavors that will have you coming back for more!

Ingredients for Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for shredding due to its marbling and tenderness after cooking.
• Onion: A sweet onion adds depth of flavor; slice it thinly to mix well with the pork.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic base; chop them finely for maximum flavor.
• BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version; this will coat the pulled pork beautifully.

For the Seasoning:

• Paprika: Adds smokiness and color; use smoked paprika for an extra punch.
• Cayenne Pepper: A pinch gives a nice kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by slicing the onion and mincing the garlic. Gather all your ingredients so you can dive into cooking without hunting down things in your pantry.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add a splash of oil. Once hot, place the pork shoulder in there like it’s getting a spa treatment—sizzling away on each side until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side).

Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic

Toss in those lovely onions and garlic after removing the pork from the pot. Let them sauté until they’re fragrant and translucent (about 3 minutes). Your kitchen should smell heavenly right about now!

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle paprika and cayenne pepper over the onions before returning the pork shoulder back into the pot. Pour in enough BBQ sauce to generously coat everything—because life’s too short for bland food!

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the lid securely on your Instant Pot. Set it to manual high pressure for about 60 minutes. While you wait (and trust me, you’ll want to wait), picture yourself diving into that pulled pork goodness.

Step 6: Shred and Serve

When time’s up, carefully release the pressure (watch out for steam!). Remove the pork shoulder from the pot and shred it using two forks—this is where all those cooking aromas come together! Mix in more BBQ sauce if desired.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy on toasted buns with coleslaw or straight off a platter with friends gathered around—you can’t go wrong either way!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning your pork shoulder generously with spices. Sear it in the Instant Pot to lock in flavors, then add BBQ sauce and cook on high pressure. While it cooks, prepare your sides to enjoy a complete meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the BBQ sauce for your favorite flavor or add extra spices like smoked paprika. You can also toss in onions and peppers for added depth or serve it on buns with coleslaw for some crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.

Sometimes, I take this dish to family gatherings, and my cousin always claims it’s “better than anything he’s had at a restaurant.” I guess that makes me a home-cooking superstar!

FAQs :

What is the best cut of meat for Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork?

For the best results, use a pork shoulder or pork butt when making Instant Pot BBQ pulled pork. These cuts are well-marbled with fat, which keeps the meat moist and tender during cooking. The connective tissues break down beautifully in the pressure cooker, allowing for easy shredding. Avoid lean cuts like pork loin, as they may dry out and not yield the desired flavor profile. For more inspiration, check out this Perfect Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork?

Cooking instant pot BBQ pulled pork takes about 60 to 75 minutes under high pressure once the pot reaches temperature. However, you should factor in additional time for natural pressure release, which usually takes around 15 minutes. Overall, plan for about two hours from start to finish, including prep time and pressure buildup. This cooking method significantly reduces traditional slow cooking times while delivering incredibly tender results.

Can I use frozen meat for Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork?

Yes, you can use frozen meat to make instant pot BBQ pulled pork. Just remember that cooking times will increase when starting with frozen pork. Generally, add an additional 10 to 15 minutes to the cooking time. Ensure that your Instant Pot has enough liquid to build pressure properly. The result will be just as delicious and tender as using fresh meat.

What should I serve with Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork?

Instant pot BBQ pulled pork pairs well with various sides. Classic options include coleslaw and baked beans, which complement the smoky flavors of the meat. You can also serve it on buns for sandwiches or over rice for a hearty meal. satisfying Instant Pot meal Consider adding pickles or jalapeños for extra crunch and spice. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra barbecue sauce on top for added flavor!

Conclusion for Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork :

In summary, making instant pot BBQ pulled pork is a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful dish that everyone loves. Using a well-marbled cut of pork ensures tenderness and moisture during cooking. The recipe requires minimal prep time but delivers maximum flavor. perfect side dish for pulled pork Serve it with tasty sides like coleslaw or baked beans to create a complete meal that will impress your family and friends! Enjoy this delicious dish at your next gathering or as a satisfying weeknight dinner.