Name: Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 lbs pork shoulder; 1 cup chicken broth; 0.5 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food. Remember those summer barbecues where the air was thick with the smell of smoked pork? Is elbow-to-elbow grabbing for a sandwich? What is the recipe for a good meal?Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches!What is the best way to bring good vibes into your kitchen any time of year? Is it easier to make a batch of chili than you make it? What is the best slow-smoked masterpiece you’ve ever had? What is the best way to have dinner on the table in less than an hour? Is it safe to quit smoking? Don’t tell my dad I said that!

What is Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches?

Think of Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches.As a magical transformation. You take a relatively inexpensive cut of pork – I usually go for pork shoulder. How do you cook a Boston butt in the Instant Pot? What is pressure-cooked pork? The beauty is that it tastes like it’s been slow-cooked for hours, but it can be ready in a fraction of the time. What’s a good sandwich to serve with your favorite toppings? Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day parties, or any time you’re craving some good ol’ comfort food.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Why am I so obsessed with this recipe? What I love most about it is how incredibly amazingly amazing the story is.flavorfulThe combination of spices, the slight sweetness from the brown sugar, and the smoky paprika create a sweet and spicy taste. What’s the depth of flavor that is just irresistible? Is it just me or my kids who ask for this?Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches.What is a recipe which is also unbelievsimpleI’m talking minimal prep time and mostly hands-off cooking. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Another win? Is it incrediblycost-efficientPork shoulder is a relatively inexpensive cut of meat, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. What do you have on hand? What is the best recipe for brownies?versatileCan you use pulled pork in tacos, salads or even on top of a baked potato? What is a good recipe to have in your repertoire? What’s your favorite weeknight dinner recipe?

How do I make Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches?

Quick Overview

Making Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches.Is it easier than you think? What are some good ways to rub pork shoulder in the Instant Pot? Is it safe to cook a vegetable under pressure until it’s fall apart tender? What are some good ways to serve pork on buns? Is this recipe easy to make? Is the Instant Pot your best friend?

Ingredients

For the Pulled Pork: For a Por
* 3-4 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed of excess fat. I always go for bone-in if I can find it; it seems to add even more flavor!
* 1 tbsp olive oil. You can use any oil with a high smoke point, but I prefer olive oils.
* 1 large onion, chopped. Yellow or white onion works great.
What is the best way to mince garlic?
* 1 cup chicken broth. You can also use beef broth in a pinch.
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar. This adds a nice tanginess to the pork.
* 1/4 cup brown sugar. Light or dark brown will work.
* 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Don’t skip this – it adds a ton of umami flavor.
* 1 tbsp smoked paprika. This is what gives the pork that delicious smoky flavor.
* 1 tsp chili powder. Adds a little kick.
* 1 tsp cumin. For warmth and earthiness.
Is it safe to eat too much garlic?
* 1/2 tsp onion powder. For extra oniony goodness.
* 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional). If you like a little heat, add 1-2 cloves.
* Salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with salt – it really brings out the flavor of the pork.

For the Sandwiches: What are
* Hamburger buns. I prefer brioche bun for their soft texture and slightly sweet flavor.
* Barbecue sauce. Use your favorite brand or homemade recipe. I like a tangy Kansas City-style sauce.
* Coleslaw (optional): Adds a nice crunch and cool contrast to the rich pork.
* Pickles (optional). For a little extra tang.
* Onion rings (optional). Because everything is better with onion rings!

What are the steps in

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Set aside. Powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper. How do you rub the spice mixture on pork shoulder? What is the best way to build flavor in meat?

Step 2: Sear the Pork

Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. What is the best way to sear pork shoulder? What is the best way to cook pork?

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the Instant Pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. The onions and garlic will add another layer of flavor to the pork.

Step 4: Add Liquids

How do you mix chicken broth and apple cider vinegar? Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. What is called deglazing, and it adds more flavor to the sauce. Stir in Worcestershire sauce.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Place the pork shoulder back into the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 60 minutes. If your pork shoulder is larger (closer to 4 lbs), you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time. I always err on the side of overcooking, because you can always shred it more!

Step 6: Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot naturally pressure release for 15 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually. This prevents the pork from drying out.

Step 7: Shred the Pork

Remove the pork shoulder from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. It should be incredibly tender and easy to shred. Discard any excess fat or bone.

Step 8: Add Barbecue Sauce

Return the shredded pork to the Instant Pot. Pour in your favorite barbecue sauce and stir to combine. You can add as much or as little barbecue sauce as you like, depending on your preference. I usually start with about 1 cup and add more if needed. Let the pork simmer in the barbecue sauce for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 9: Assemble the Sandwiches

Toast the hamburger buns, if desired. Pile the pulled pork high on the buns. Top with coleslaw, pickles, and onion rings, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

What to Serve It With

Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a complete meal on their own, but they’re even better with the right sides. For a classic barbecue experience, serve them with coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans. My family loves when I make a big batch of creamy mac and cheese to go along with it, too! If you’re looking for something a little lighter, try serving them with a side salad or some grilled vegetables. I’ve even been known to serve them with sweet potato fries for a sweet and savory combination that’s out of this world. For a summer barbecue, I’ll often serve these sandwiches with watermelon and corn on the cob. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Trust me, these pairings never fail to please!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years for making the perfect Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches:

Don’t skip the sear: Searing the pork is essential for developing flavor. It creates a delicious crust on the outside of the pork that adds a ton of depth to the final dish.

Use a good quality spice rub: The spice rub is what gives the pork its signature flavor, so don’t skimp on the spices! Use fresh, high-quality spices for the best results. I like to make my own spice rub, but you can also use a store-bought blend.

Don’t overcook the pork: Overcooked pork will be dry and tough. The pork is done when it’s fall-apart tender and easy to shred.

Adjust the barbecue sauce to your liking: Use your favorite barbecue sauce, or make your own. You can also adjust the amount of barbecue sauce to your liking. I like to start with about 1 cup and add more if needed.

Add a splash of liquid smoke: If you want to add even more smoky flavor to the pork, add a splash of liquid smoke to the Instant Pot before cooking. But be careful not to add too much, as it can be overpowering. A little goes a long way!

Let the pork rest: After shredding the pork, let it rest for a few minutes before adding the barbecue sauce. This allows the pork to reabsorb some of the juices and become even more tender. I usually cover it loosely with foil while it rests.

Toast the buns: Toasting the buns adds a nice crunch and prevents them from getting soggy. I like to toast them in a skillet with a little butter, but you can also toast them in the oven or toaster.

Get creative with toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings! Coleslaw, pickles, onion rings, and jalapeños are all great additions. I’ve even added pineapple salsa for a tropical twist!

Make it ahead of time: Pulled pork is a great dish to make ahead of time. You can cook the pork a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Then, simply reheat it and add the barbecue sauce when you’re ready to serve. This is a lifesaver when you’re hosting a party.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches (which is rare!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Room Temperature: Cooked pulled pork should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, which can lead to food poisoning. If you’re serving pulled pork at a party, keep it warm in a Slow Cooker or on a warming tray.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the pork completely before refrigerating it. I like to store the pulled pork separately from the barbecue sauce, so it doesn’t get soggy.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze pulled pork for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the pulled pork tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before freezing. I recommend freezing the pulled pork in individual portions, so you can easily thaw out what you need.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning on freezing the pulled pork, it’s best to add the barbecue sauce after thawing and reheating. This will prevent the barbecue sauce from becoming watery or separating.

To reheat pulled pork, you can use the microwave, oven, or stovetop. In the microwave, heat the pulled pork in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. In the oven, heat the pulled pork at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. On the stovetop, heat the pulled pork in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a little bit of broth or water to the skillet to prevent the pork from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?

While pork shoulder (Boston butt) is the best cut for pulled pork due to its high fat content, you can also use pork loin or pork tenderloin. However, these cuts are leaner and may result in drier pulled pork. If using a leaner cut, consider adding a little extra broth or water to the Instant Pot to keep the pork moist. You might also want to reduce the cooking time slightly.

Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make pulled pork in a slow cooker or in the oven. In a slow cooker, cook the pork on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. In the oven, cook the pork at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours, or until it’s fall-apart tender. Make sure to cover the pork tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. It will take longer and you’ll miss out on the speed of the Instant Pot, but it will still be delicious!

Can I add other vegetables to the Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables to the Instant Pot, such as bell peppers, jalapeños, or carrots. Add them along with the onions and garlic, and sauté them for a few minutes before adding the liquids. This will add even more flavor and nutrients to the dish. I’ve found that carrots add a subtle sweetness that works really well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, as mentioned earlier, pulled pork is a great dish to make ahead of time. You can cook the pork a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Then, simply reheat it and add the barbecue sauce when you’re ready to serve. This is a lifesaver when you’re hosting a party or just want to get a head start on dinner.

What kind of barbecue sauce should I use?

That’s entirely up to you! Use your favorite barbecue sauce, or make your own. There are so many different types of barbecue sauce, from sweet and tangy to smoky and spicy. Experiment with different flavors and find what you like best. I’m partial to a Kansas City-style sauce, but a Carolina-style vinegar sauce is also delicious.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches. It’s easy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. What makes this recipe so worth trying is how quickly you can get amazing, barbecue-quality pulled pork without all the fuss. The Instant Pot truly works its magic here! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other Instant Pot recipes. I’ve got everything from soups and stews to desserts. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if you try any fun variations. And don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it. Share your own creations – I love seeing what you come up with!