Easy Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a quick and flavorful alternative to slow-cooked pulled pork. Using pork shoulder, a blend of spices, and BBQ sauce, this dish comes together effortlessly in under two hours.Perfect for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or meal prep, these sandwiches can be customized with various toppings and served with classic sides - they make a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal!
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder trimmed of excess fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing, optional
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup chicken broth or apple cider vinegar for extra tanginess
- 1 cup BBQ sauce plus extra for serving
- Brioche or sandwich buns
- Coleslaw optional, for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Pork
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder.
- Cut the pork into large chunks (about 3-4 inches) to ensure even cooking.
- Rub the pork with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.
Sear the Pork (Optional but Recommended)
- Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat olive oil.
- Sear the pork pieces for about 2 minutes per side until browned.
- Remove the pork and set aside.
Pressure Cook the Pork
- Add chicken broth (or apple cider vinegar) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
- Return the pork to the pot and secure the lid.
- Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High for 60-80 minutes (depending on the thickness of the pork chunks).
- Allow a 15-minute natural pressure release, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
Shred and Sauce
- Transfer the pork to a large bowl and use two forks to shred it.
- Mix in BBQ sauce to coat the meat evenly.