As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.
If you're looking to elevate your dinner game, Instant Pot pulled pork might just be the answer. With its juicy texture and smoky flavors, this versatile dish can cater to any palate. From classic barbecue styles to unique twists like pineapple teriyaki, there's a recipe for everyone. Let's explore these delicious options that promise to make your next meal memorable and satisfying. You won't want to miss what's coming next.
Key Takeaways
- Classic Instant Pot Pulled Pork offers tender, flavorful meat in under 90 minutes, perfect for sandwiches or as a main dish.
- Sweet and Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork features a homemade BBQ sauce for a rich, tangy flavor, ideal for gatherings and family meals.
- Spicy Chipotle Pulled Pork adds a smoky and spicy twist through marination with chipotle peppers, enhancing tenderness and flavor.
- Pineapple Teriyaki Pulled Pork combines savory teriyaki sauce and sweet pineapple for a refreshing summer dish, cooked effortlessly in the Instant Pot.
- For unique flavors, consider Garlic Herb or Bourbon Maple Pulled Pork, both of which create aromatic, rich profiles perfect for any occasion.
Classic Instant Pot Pulled Pork
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival classic pulled pork. This Instant Pot version is a game changer, allowing you to enjoy tender, flavorful pork in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also infuses the meat with spices and seasonings while keeping it juicy and succulent.
Whether you're serving it on a bun, with coleslaw, or alongside your favorite sides, this pulled pork recipe is sure to impress. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it to your taste. You can adjust the level of spiciness, add your favorite barbecue sauce, or serve it with various toppings.
Perfect for a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, this pulled pork is versatile and satisfying. Let's explore the ingredients and cooking instructions to get that delicious meal on your table.
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (optional for serving)
- Buns and coleslaw for serving (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by cutting the pork shoulder into large chunks to guarantee even cooking. Turn the Instant Pot to the "Sauté" mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
Add the pork chunks to the pot, followed by the broth. Close the lid, making sure the vent is sealed, and set the Instant Pot to "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" for 60 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 15 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. If desired, stir in the barbecue sauce to combine with the meat before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder in your favorite spices or barbecue sauce the night before cooking.
Additionally, you can tweak the cooking time based on the size of the meat chunks; smaller pieces will require less time, while larger chunks may need a bit longer. Finally, don't hesitate to experiment with different barbecue sauces or toppings to make this pulled pork truly your own. Enjoy!
Sweet and Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork
Sweet and Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork is a delicious, comforting dish that's perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a satisfying meal at home. This recipe takes a pork shoulder and infuses it with a blend of sweet and smoky flavors, resulting in tender, juicy meat that easily shreds with a fork.
The slow cooking method allows the spices to penetrate the meat, creating a rich depth of flavor that's hard to resist. To complement the pork, a homemade BBQ sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and tanginess, enhancing the overall taste. Serve the pulled pork on a bun for a classic sandwich, or pile it on a plate with coleslaw and cornbread for a hearty meal. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients:
- 4-5 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by mixing the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's well-coated.
Place the pork in a slow cooker, and pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around it. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, mix in the BBQ sauce, and let it heat through for another 30 minutes. Serve on buns or alongside your favorite sides.
Extra Tips:
For a deeper flavor, consider searing the pork shoulder in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker. This will create a nice crust and enhance the overall taste.
Additionally, you can customize the BBQ sauce by adding your favorite spices or using a different type of vinegar for a unique twist. Don't forget to keep the leftovers; pulled pork is even better the next day!
Spicy Chipotle Pulled Pork
To achieve the best results, allow the pork to marinate for a few hours or overnight in the spice mixture. This will enhance the flavors and make the meat even more tender.
Once cooked, the pulled pork can be enjoyed right away or stored in the fridge for later use, making it a great meal prep option. Get ready to enjoy a smoky and spicy twist on a classic dish!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Optional: buns and coleslaw for serving
Cooking Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a spice rub.
Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated. For best results, cover the pork and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Once seared, remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom, then return the pork to the pot. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 4-6 hours, or until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
Alternatively, you can cook the pork in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours.
Extra Tips:
For an even spicier kick, feel free to add more chipotle peppers to the rub or serve the pulled pork with hot sauce on the side.
If you're short on time, you can also use a pressure cooker to speed up the cooking process, cutting the time down to about 1.5 hours.
Finally, leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage, making it a great option for quick meals later on. Enjoy!
Pineapple Teriyaki Pulled Pork
Pineapple Teriyaki Pulled Pork is a delightful twist on the traditional pulled pork dish, combining the savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with the sweetness of pineapple. This recipe is perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner. The slow-cooked pork becomes incredibly tender and infused with a tropical flair that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.
To achieve the best results, it's crucial to start with a good cut of pork, such as pork shoulder or butt, which has a good amount of fat to keep the meat moist during cooking. The combination of the tangy teriyaki sauce and sweet pineapple creates a mouthwatering glaze that pairs beautifully with the pulled pork, making it the star of any meal. Serve it on a bun, over rice, or with your favorite sides for a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder or butt
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 cup canned crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
To prepare the Pineapple Teriyaki Pulled Pork, start by placing the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, crushed pineapple (with juice), brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, onion powder, and salt until well combined.
Pour this mixture over the pork, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, mixing it back into the sauce in the slow cooker. Allow it to soak up the flavors for a few more minutes before serving.
You can serve the pulled pork on toasted buns, over steamed rice, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the pork in the teriyaki sauce and pineapple mixture overnight before cooking. This not only enhances the taste but also gives the pork extra moisture.
If you want a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Finally, don't forget to garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that extra touch of flavor and presentation!
Garlic Herb Pulled Pork
Garlic Herb Pulled Pork is a delectable and aromatic dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe elevates the classic pulled pork experience by infusing it with fragrant garlic and a blend of fresh herbs. The result is tender, flavorful meat that can be used in sandwiches, tacos, or served on its own with a side of your favorite coleslaw. Perfect for a weekend gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish is both satisfying and versatile.
To achieve the best results, it's crucial to choose the right cut of pork. A pork shoulder or pork butt works best for pulling, as the marbling of fat guarantees a juicy and tender finish. The slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the meat becomes fork-tender. With a little patience, you'll have a crowd-pleasing dish that's both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: BBQ sauce for serving
To start, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl to create a flavorful herb mixture. Rub this mixture all over the pork, making certain it's evenly coated.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once seared, transfer the pork to a slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
After cooking, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. If desired, mix in some of the cooking juices for added flavor and moisture. Serve the garlic herb pulled pork on buns, in tacos, or on its own with your favorite sides, and drizzle with BBQ sauce if you like.
Extra Tips: For even more flavor, consider marinating the pork with the garlic and herb mixture overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat. Additionally, you can customize the herbs based on your personal preference; parsley or sage can also work wonderfully.
Finally, don't forget to save some of the cooking liquid to keep the pulled pork moist when serving.
Apple Cider Pulled Pork
Apple cider pulled pork is a delicious twist on the classic pulled pork recipe. The addition of apple cider not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicy and succulent dish that's perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a weekend treat. This recipe is simple to follow and will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
To prepare apple cider pulled pork, you'll want to start with a good-quality pork shoulder, as it has the right amount of fat and connective tissue to break down during cooking. The apple cider adds a sweet yet tangy note that balances beautifully with the spices and seasonings, making every bite a delightful experience. Serve it on buns, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (optional for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by mixing the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create a dry rub. Rub this mixture generously all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's well-coated. Allow the pork to sit for at least an hour, or overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
- In a slow cooker or a large roasting pan, place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom. Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions, then pour the apple cider over the meat. If using a slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours; if using the oven, cover with foil and roast at 300°F (150°C) for about 4-5 hours or until the meat is fork-tender.
- Once the pork is done cooking, remove it from the slow cooker or oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Shred the meat using two forks, mixing in some of the cooking liquid for added flavor and moisture. Serve with barbecue sauce, if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the cooking liquid. You can also experiment with different spices in the dry rub to suit your taste preferences.
If you prefer a smoky flavor, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the apple cider before cooking. Finally, leftover pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep!
Bourbon Maple Pulled Pork
Bourbon Maple Pulled Pork is a delightful twist on traditional pulled pork that combines the rich flavors of bourbon and the sweetness of maple syrup. This dish is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a cozy family dinner. The slow-cooking process guarantees that the pork becomes tender and flavorful, while the glaze adds a delicious caramelized finish that will impress your guests.
To achieve the perfect pulled pork, you'll want to start with a good cut of meat and let it marinate in a flavorful blend of spices, bourbon, and maple syrup. The longer you let it marinate, the more intense the flavors will be.
Once cooked, the pork can be served on its own, or piled high on a bun with coleslaw for an extra crunch.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Burger buns (for serving)
- Coleslaw (for serving)
To prepare the Bourbon Maple Pulled Pork, start by mixing together the bourbon, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
Place the pork shoulder in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, making certain the meat is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the pork from the marinade (reserving the liquid) and place it in a roasting pan. Pour the reserved marinade over the pork and cover it tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for about 4-6 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes before shredding it with two forks. You can serve it immediately, drizzled with some of the cooking juices and enjoyed on buns with coleslaw, or you can return the pulled pork to the pan, mix in any remaining sauce, and place it back in the oven for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize.
Extra Tips: For even more flavor, consider smoking the pork shoulder if you have access to a smoker. Alternatively, you can finish the pulled pork under a broiler for a few minutes to get a nice crust on the top.
Remember to taste the pulled pork before serving; you can adjust the sweetness or spice level by adding more maple syrup or cayenne, depending on your preference. Enjoy your Bourbon Maple Pulled Pork!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Pork Shoulder With Another Cut of Meat?
Imagine a canvas where flavors dance; you can substitute pork shoulder with cuts like pork belly or butt. They'll still deliver that rich, tender texture, transforming your dish into a savory masterpiece. You won't be disappointed!
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Pork?
To store leftover pulled pork, let it cool down, then place it in an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to four days or freeze it for several months for later enjoyment.
What Should I Serve With Pulled Pork?
You'll want to balance flavors, so try tangy coleslaw alongside sweet cornbread. For a smoky twist, add baked beans. Don't forget pickles, and if you're feeling adventurous, top it off with spicy jalapeños!
Can I Freeze Pulled Pork, and How Long Does It Last?
Yes, you can freeze pulled pork! It lasts up to three months in the freezer. Just make sure you store it in an airtight container or freezer bag to maintain its flavor and texture.
What Is the Best Way to Reheat Pulled Pork?
To reheat pulled pork, you'll want to use low heat. Place it in a skillet or oven, adding a splash of broth or sauce. Cover it to keep moisture, stirring occasionally until heated through. Enjoy!
