Amazing Instant Pot Pulled Pork
The most popular recipe on my entire site, The Best Slow Cooker Pulled Pork, is now converted for the pressure cooker! If you love the original then make sure to try out the quick and easy Amazing Instant Pot Pulled Pork!
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One of the most asked questions I get is how to convert slow cooker recipes for the pressure cooker and vice versa. So over the last few months I’ve been working on testing them out so that I can provide you the information you need to get a delicious meal on the table. Whether you prefer the Instant Pot or the slow cooker, my goal is to provide you simple to make recipes using wholesome ingredients that you will love making and serving to friends or family. This Amazing Instant Pot Pulled Pork is a slightly modified version of the original slow cooker version and turns out amazingly tender in the pressure cooker. I made this multiple times during the holiday season for parties and dinners and it was a hit every time.
What kind of pork do you use for pulled pork sandwiches?
I get the question about subbing different types of pork all the time and for sure, people have success with many different cuts of meat. That being said, for pulled pork sandwiches I recommend using only pork shoulder, also known as pork butt.
The reason for this is the collagen and connective tissues in the pork butt that will make for much better pulled pork. A pork loin tends to get overcooked and doesn’t shred as well.
How do you shred (or pull) pork?
- Another important thing to note about shredding the meat.
- For it to shred easily, the internal temp of the pork should reach 205 degrees F.
- At a lower temperature, it may be fully cooked, but won’t shred easily and you will end up frustrated.
- So while it may seem counterintuitive, it’s important to cook this pork shoulder well in order to “pull” it.
- To do the work, you can use a couple of forks, meat shredder claws, or your stand mixer.
How long does it take to cook pulled pork in a pressure cooker?
The general rule of thumb for a roast is that it will take around 40-60 minutes. We are going to use a 3-4 pound roast and since we want it nice and tender, I suggest 60 minutes.
When you cut the meat into smaller pieces, you can reduce the cooking time. But though trial and error, I’ve found cutting the pork into about 4 pieces and sticking with a 50-60 minute cooking time is best for amazingly tender and flavorful pulled pork.
What can I make besides sandwiches?
While pulled pork sandwiches are obviously amazing, there are so many things you can make with pulled pork!
Or really, anything you can dream up!
Amazing Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Ingredients
- 4 pound pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons paprika try smoked paprika for more of that smoked flavor
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3/4 cup water
Instructions
- Cut pork into 3-4 pieces
- Mix together all of the dried spices and rub into all sides of the pork
- Place vinegar and water in bottom of Instant Pot and add pork
- Cover, seal and set to high pressure for 60 minutes
- Allow natural pressure release until pin drops then release any remaining pressure
- Remove pork and shred
- Add back a little of the juice from pot if desired and discard the remainder (don't use too much or pork will become soggy)
Do you trim the fat before cooking or leave it on? There is a thick “fat pad” on the bottom of it.
Totally up to your preference. For added flavor you could leave it in and then remove when shredding.
This recipe is SO delicious!! I put a little more cayenne pepper than I should have as it was a little warm for me but hubby loved it. Had it for like 3 days and never tired of it it has so much flavor.
Sounds delicious, thanks for the comment!
Hi Jennifer, I’ve seen several recipes that say to sear the meat first… do you ever sear first? Thanks, can’t wait to try this!
I do occasionally but the whole idea of the slow cooker to me is less steps and less dishes so for the most part I skip it and don’t notice a difference.
I always sear my roasts for increase flavor profile, not necessary, but yummy. if using your instant pot, I sear on saute mode 5 min on ea side then hit pressure as per recipe. only one pot no extra clean̈ up…just fyi…
Great tip! Searing the roast definitely adds an extra depth of flavor—thanks for sharing your method! Using the Instant Pot sauté mode is such a smart way to keep things simple with fewer dishes
I have very little experience with my Instant Pot. This recipe was easy to follow and the results are wonderful! It has been printed out and added to my collection.
I’m confused. Is the cook time 60 min or 130 min?
Hi! The cook time is 60 minutes. The 1 hour and 30 minutes you see also includes the pressurize and natural pressure release time which I include to help you plan the overall time it will take.
Do you use the “Slow Cook” option on the Instant Pot?
You will cook this on high pressure.
How much time would you add for a 7 pound roast? Thanks.
Just a guess since I haven’t tested it but I’d probably cut into smaller chunks and add 10-15 minutes.
Could you follow the same recipe and substitute chicken?
I haven’t tried it so I can’t really say for sure. The recipe would likely need some adjustments to both seasonings, liquid ratios and cooking time.
Just tried this recipe tonight and totally LOVED IT!!!!!! Home run for sure!
Really enjoyed the flavor. Simple with pressure cooker. Thanks so much!
so glad you loved it!
Do you use the Instant Pot Rack or place the pork directly on the bottom of the pan?
Just place directly in the pan/liner.
I am confused with converted recipe for Pulled pork using both the: Instant Pot & Pressure cooking in one recipe at same time.
What is the actual recipe for the “INSTANT POT” cooking, only.
as in your recipe it mentions Instant pot converting to pressure cooking.
Am trying to understand where does the Instant pot directions start to use only the Instant Pot ?? Am new to using Instant Pot. Any help will be grateful.
Olga
Hi Olga! The Instant Pot is just a particular brand of electric pressure cooker, so the directions are for an Instant Pot or any other brand you have. Just make sure you read the manual for safety instructions first if new to using it!!