Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Tender, juicy pulled pork seasoned with a flavorful blend of smoky paprika, garlic, brown sugar, and spices. Pressure-cooked in a tangy barbecue sauce with apple cider vinegar and savory broth, this easy Instant Pot recipe delivers delicious, fall-apart pork without hours of slow cooking. Perfect for barbecue sandwiches, tacos, loaded baked potatoes, or serving alongside your favorite Southern-style sides.

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% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar, 2 teaspoons paprika, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional). Mix thoroughly, then evenly coat 3 pounds of cubed boneless pork roast with the seasoning mixture. For additional flavor, refrigerate the seasoned pork for 30–60 minutes before cooking.

Step 2

Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Liquid: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 cup barbecue sauce, 1 cup chicken or beef broth, and 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (optional). Reserve the remaining 1 cup barbecue sauce and 1/4 cup broth for later use.

Step 3

Step 3: Sear the Pork: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add half the seasoned pork and brown for approximately 5 minutes, turning to sear all sides. Remove the browned pork to a plate and repeat with the remaining pork. Turn off the Sauté function, add the reserved 1/4 cup broth, and use a wooden spoon to thoroughly scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pot to prevent a burn warning.

Step 4

Step 4: Pressure Cook: Return all the browned pork to the Instant Pot and pour the prepared barbecue cooking liquid over the meat. Secure the lid and set the pressure valve to Sealing. Select Manual or Pressure Cook on High Pressure for 40 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure using the quick-release valve.

Step 5

Step 5: Shred and Serve: Carefully remove the cooked pork from the Instant Pot and transfer it to a large bowl or cutting board. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any excess fat. Stir in the remaining 1 cup barbecue sauce until the pork is evenly coated. Add a small amount of the cooking liquid if additional moisture is desired. Serve warm on hamburger buns, in tacos, or alongside your favorite barbecue sides.