Tender Instant Pot Pulled Pork Butt Recipe

Looking for a dish that turns a simple pork butt into a melt-in-your-mouth delight? This Instant Pot pulled pork recipe is your answer! It’s perfect for those busy days when you want a flavorful meal without the hours of cooking. You’ll love how quickly the Instant Pot transforms tougher cuts of meat into tender, juicy goodness.

Picture this: succulent pieces of pork, infused with smoky spices and cooked to perfection in just a fraction of the time it takes to do it the traditional way. This recipe is not just about speed; it’s also about flavor. Your family will be asking for seconds!

Creating the Perfect Pulled Pork

The process of making pulled pork can be incredibly satisfying. Using an Instant Pot transforms a simple pork butt into a dish that offers melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

This recipe highlights the convenience of the Instant Pot, making it an excellent choice for those who want to prepare a delicious meal without dedicating hours in the kitchen.

Once you start with a quality pork shoulder, the magic begins as it cooks under pressure, becoming infused with flavors and incredibly tender.

The Flavor Profile

A successful pulled pork dish is all about the seasoning. A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of brown sugar creates a robust flavor.

This combination enhances the natural taste of the pork while adding a delicious depth that makes every bite memorable.

Don’t forget to include a drizzle of barbecue sauce; it complements the meat beautifully, enhancing its smokiness and adding a touch of sweetness.

Preparation Steps

Preparing the pork is a straightforward process. Start by trimming any excess fat and cutting the meat into large chunks. This ensures even cooking, allowing every piece to soak up the seasoning.

Next, mix the spices to create a flavorful rub. Coat the pork generously to maximize flavor in the final dish.

After seasoning, browning the meat in the Instant Pot adds another layer of flavor that is essential for a rich and satisfying pulled pork.

Cooking in the Instant Pot

Once the pork is browned, it’s time for the magic of pressure cooking. Adding broth to the pot creates steam, which helps the meat cook evenly while remaining juicy.

Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook for about an hour, and you will be greeted with the aroma of perfectly cooked pork.

After cooking, letting the pressure release naturally is essential for the best texture, allowing the meat to relax and retain its juices.

Serving Suggestions

Once the pork is shredded, the real fun begins—serving it! A classic way to enjoy pulled pork is on a toasted bun, piled high with the flavorful meat.

Pairing it with a side of coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast that balances the rich flavors of the pork.

Don’t forget the extra barbecue sauce on the side for those who like a little more kick!

Creating a Mouthwatering Presentation

Presentation can elevate the dining experience. Arranging the pulled pork on a rustic wooden table gives it a warm and inviting feel.

Adding a small bowl of barbecue sauce alongside a fork creates an appealing setup.

Your guests will appreciate not just the taste but also the visual appeal of a well-prepared plate of pulled pork.

The Ultimate Instant Pot Pulled Pork Recipe

This easy Instant Pot pulled pork is savory and juicy, seasoned with a blend of spices that add depth and character. The meat becomes incredibly tender, making it easy to shred and serve in sandwiches, tacos, or on its own.

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds pork butt (shoulder)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (optional for serving)
• Buns, tortillas, or sides for serving

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork butt and cut it into large chunks for even cooking.
2. Mix the Rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork pieces.
3. Sauté: Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode. Add olive oil and let it heat up. Brown the pork pieces in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
4. Pressure Cook: Once all the pork is browned, add the chicken broth to the pot. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 60 minutes.
5. Release Pressure: After cooking, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10-15 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
6. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. You can mix in barbecue sauce if desired, and serve on buns or tortillas.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories: 320kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 4g