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Tender Instant Pot Pulled Pork Recipe Easy Juicy July 4th BBQ Favorite

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A quick and easy Instant Pot pulled pork recipe that delivers juicy, tender, smoky BBQ flavor in about an hour—perfect for last-minute BBQs or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
  • 1 cup chicken broth or water (for pressure cooking liquid)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • BBQ sauce of choice
  • Buns or slider rolls
  • Coleslaw (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and trim any large chunks of fat if desired.
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if using). Stir well.
  3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, pressing gently so it adheres to the meat. Let it rest for about 10 minutes or longer in the fridge for deeper flavor.
  4. Optional: Turn Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat a little oil. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 3 minutes per side.
  5. Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot. Place the pork shoulder on the trivet or directly in the liquid. Seal the lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook on high for 60 minutes.
  6. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
  7. Remove the pork to a large bowl or cutting board. Using two forks, shred the meat—it should fall apart easily. Discard any large pieces of fat.
  8. Stir in your favorite BBQ sauce to taste. Serve on buns with coleslaw or preferred sides.

Notes

Searing the pork is optional but adds flavor and color. Natural pressure release is key to keeping the meat juicy. If pork is tough, cook an extra 10-15 minutes under pressure. Save the cooking liquid for BBQ gravy or to moisten leftovers. Adjust seasoning and BBQ sauce to taste. For gluten-free, check BBQ sauce labels or make your own.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot pulled pork, pulled pork recipe, BBQ pulled pork, easy pulled pork, pressure cooker pulled pork, July 4th recipe, summer BBQ

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/tender-instant-pot-pulled-pork-recipe-easy-juicy-july-4th-bbq-favorite/