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This Instant Pot Pulled Pork recipe is a game changer for anyone craving tender, flavorful BBQ without the long wait. Using a simple rub and soda for moisture and tenderizing, the pork comes out juicy and perfect for sandwiches or plates in just about an hour. It’s a fantastic shortcut for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal fast.
I first made this pulled pork when craving BBQ on a rainy weekend and was amazed at how the Instant Pot nailed a melt-in-your-mouth texture every time. Now it’s a staple whenever I want great BBQ fast.
Ingredients
- Boneless pork butt: Choose a fresh piece with good fat marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness. Make sure the size fits your Instant Pot.
- Brown sugar: Adds subtle sweetness balancing smoky spices
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Deliver savory depth and aroma
- Paprika and chili powder: Give the rub warmth and that classic BBQ feel; seek out smoked paprika for a deeper flavor note
- Cayenne powder: Just a touch for mild heat without overpowering
- Soda such as root beer, Dr Pepper or CocaCola: Brings sweetness and helps tenderize the pork thanks to carbonation and acidity
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness to cut through the richness of the pork
- BBQ sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade recipe to finish off with saucy goodness
Instructions
- Searing the Pork:
- Trim any excessive fat from the pork butt but leave the marbled fat. Pat the pork dry with paper towels to promote browning. Heat the Instant Pot on sauté mode, then brown the pork on all sides for a few minutes until golden. This locks in flavor and juices, though it is optional if you’re short on time.
- Mixing the Rub:
- Combine brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder and cayenne powder in a bowl. Taste your blend beforehand to balance sweetness, smokiness and heat. Lightly rub this seasoning all over the pork, pressing it in well for maximum flavor infusion. For deeper flavor, wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Adding Liquid and Cooking:
- Pour one can of soda and apple cider vinegar into the bottom of your Instant Pot. Stir to combine. Place the seasoned pork butt into the pot. Optional step: drizzle half your barbecue sauce over the pork for added richness. Secure the lid and set the valve to seal.
- Pressure Cooking:
- Select manual high pressure and set the timer to 60 minutes based on the size (approximately 20 minutes per pound). After cooking finishes, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to finish.
- Shredding and Serving:
- Carefully remove the pork and shred it using two forks, discarding any large fatty pieces. Add the remaining BBQ sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve on buns with cole slaw or your favorite sides for a classic Southern-inspired meal.
My favorite ingredient here has to be the soda for its tenderizing effect and subtle sweetness that transforms the pork from just meat into something truly special. One holiday, my family asked for this pulled pork three times in one week after I discovered the recipe, proving its crowd-pleasing magic.
Storage Tips
Store pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave and add a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep it juicy. Pulled pork freezes wonderfully. Divide into portions and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have pork butt, pork shoulder works similarly well though it may be slightly leaner. If you lack smoked paprika, try regular paprika with a tiny pinch of liquid smoke for that BBQ vibe. For a soda alternative, use apple juice or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and honey to add sweet acidity.
Serving Suggestions
Pile the pulled pork on soft hamburger buns with tangy cole slaw for a Southern classic. Try it in tacos topped with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, and a squeeze of lime. Serve alongside baked beans, cornbread, or green beans for a hearty meal.
Enjoy this easy, crowd-pleasing pulled pork fresh on buns or as leftovers. It freezes well for make-ahead meals.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What seasonings enhance pulled pork flavor?
A mixture of brown sugar, garlic and onion powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, and a touch of cayenne makes a balanced, flavorful rub that complements the pork well.
- → How does soda affect cooking pork?
Soda adds mild sweetness and carbonation which helps tenderize the meat during cooking, making it juicy and soft.
- → Can pulled pork be made without an Instant Pot?
Yes, slow cooking the pork in a crock pot or oven is a great alternative, though it requires a longer cooking time.
- → What is the difference between pork butt and shoulder?
Pork butt is from the thicker upper shoulder, ideal for shredding due to its marbling, while pork shoulder is leaner and from a thinner end.
- → How to choose the best pork cut for pulled pork?
Look for a pork butt with good pink color and marbled fat to ensure flavor and tenderness. The size should fit your cooking vessel.