Instant Pot BBQ Pork Recipe: Fall-Off-the-Bone Tenderness in 90 Minutes

I’ve perfected a recipe for tender, juicy Instant Pot BBQ pork that cooks in just 30 minutes. As a pitmaster with French technique training, I’ve combined the best of both worlds to create this fall-apart delicious dish.

My secret lies in the pressure cooking method, which locks in moisture and flavor. The result is tender pork that’s perfect for serving on a bun with your favorite BBQ sauce and sides. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Instant Pot Bbq Pork

Tender, juicy pork in 30 minutes? These ingredients make it happen, every time.

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The pork shoulder is key here. Look for a 2-pound boneless at your local butcher or grocery store. Costco often has great deals on larger cuts that you can portion yourself. Trim any excess fat if needed, but leave some for flavor. I prefer shoulder over loin for this recipe as it stays moist under pressure.

No BBQ sauce? Mix ketchup with apple cider vinegar and brown sugar for a quick substitute. For extra smokiness, add a dash of liquid smoke. If you prefer a different spice blend, swap the smoked paprika for regular paprika or chili powder. The Worcestershire sauce adds depth, but it’s optional if you’re out.

This pork keeps beautifully—refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat gently with additional BBQ sauce if needed. The leftovers make amazing nachos or quesadillas too. Store any leftover BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot BBQ Pork

Let’s get started with making tender, juicy BBQ pork in just 30 minutes.

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Shoulder

Start by trimming any excess fat from the 2 lb Boneless Pork Shoulder if needed. I like to leave a thin layer for flavor. Season the pork all over with 1 tsp Salt, 0.5 tsp Black Pepper, 1 tsp Garlic Powder, and 1 tsp Onion Powder, making sure to coat it evenly. This dry rub creates a flavorful crust on the pork as it cooks.

Set the seasoned pork aside while you prepare the Instant Pot. The spices will penetrate the meat slightly during the short rest, enhancing the overall flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Pork and Build Flavor

Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and let it heat up until it reads hot. Add the 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce to the pot and let it simmer for about 1 minute until it starts to reduce slightly. Then, carefully place the seasoned pork shoulder into the pot. Sear the pork for 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned. This step adds depth to your BBQ pork.

Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside. The browned bits on the bottom of the pot will add rich flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Pork

Add the 1 cup Chicken Broth, 0.25 cup Apple Cider Vinegar, and 2 tbsp Brown Sugar to the Instant Pot. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a spatula to deglaze it. Return the pork shoulder to the pot, making sure it’s mostly submerged. If necessary, you can turn it to ensure even coverage.

Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking timer starts.

Step 4: Shred and Finish with BBQ Sauce

Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. It should be tender and easily shreddable.

Strain the cooking liquid and discard any excess fat. Return the shredded pork to the pot and add the 1 cup BBQ Sauce and 1 tsp Smoked Paprika. Stir well to coat the pork evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer on “Saute” mode for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Serve on Soft Buns

Split the 4 whole Buns and toast them lightly if desired. Spoon the BBQ pork onto the buns, making sure to get a good amount of that flavorful sauce on each bun. Serve immediately and enjoy the tender, juicy BBQ pork.

The combination of the tender pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and soft buns creates a delicious sandwich that’s sure to please.

Wine and Beer Pairings for These Flavors

Perfect Wine Pairings

For this rich BBQ pork, I recommend a Zinfandel or Syrah/Shiraz to stand up to the bold flavors. The spicy and fruity notes in these wines complement the smoked paprika and BBQ sauce beautifully. Look for wines from regions like Napa Valley or Santa Cruz Mountains for the best Zinfandel. 🍷

Great Beer Matches

If you prefer beer, a hoppy IPA can cut through the richness of the pork and BBQ sauce. The bitterness balances the sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor experience. For a more traditional pairing, try an Amber Ale or Brown Ale, which offer malty, caramel notes that complement the barbecue flavors. The malty sweetness of these beers works well with the charred, savory elements of the dish. 🍺

Rosé for a Lighter Touch

For a lighter, refreshing option, a dry Rosé can be a surprising but delightful match. The acidity and fruitiness of the Rosé provide a nice contrast to the rich pork. This is particularly good if you’re serving the BBQ pork on a warm day or want a more casual, easy-drinking option. The crisp finish of a dry Rosé cleanses the palate between bites.

Consider a Craft Lager

A crisp, clean lager can also work well, especially if you’re looking for something to refresh your palate between bites. Craft lagers often have a bit more complexity than standard lagers, which can complement the herbal and spicy notes in the BBQ sauce. Look for a Pilsner or Helles for a refreshing contrast to the hearty pork.

Final Tips for Pairing

When choosing your beverage, consider the dominating flavors in your BBQ sauce. Sweet sauces pair well with fruity wines or hoppy beers, while tangy or spicy sauces might require a bolder red wine or a rougher, bitter beer. Trust your taste and don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings to find your favorite combinations. Enjoy the process of discovering what works best for you!